A powerful winter storm sweeping across the US has resulted in at least five fatalities, widespread school closures, and major travel disruptions. Seven states—Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Kansas, Missouri, Kentucky, and Arkansas—have declared emergencies. Over 2,300 flight cancellations and nearly 9,000 delays were reported. Around 190,000 people were without power early Tuesday. Dangerous road conditions led to numerous crashes, particularly in Missouri and Kansas. The storm, fueled by a polar vortex, is expected to bring ongoing icy conditions across the northeastern US, with the cold snap lasting for weeks.

The Dalai Lama expressed deep sorrow following a devastating earthquake in Tibet's Tingri county, which claimed at least 95 lives. In a statement, the Tibetan spiritual leader said he was "deeply saddened" by the tragedy and offered prayers for the victims. The earthquake, near the Nepal border, caused widespread destruction, including significant damage to homes and property. The Dalai Lama, 89, who has been in exile since 1959, and the Tibetan government-in-exile extended their condolences to the families of the deceased and wished for the swift recovery of the injured.

India's GDP growth is expected to fall to 6.4% in FY25, the lowest in four years, according to the National Statistics Office's (NSO) first advance estimates. This marks a sharp slowdown from FY24's 8.2% growth. The projection is lower than the Reserve Bank of India's 6.6% forecast. Key sectors like agriculture and construction are expected to show growth, with agriculture forecast to rise by 3.8% and construction by 8.6%. Despite overall slowdown, sectors such as financial and real estate services show resilience, indicating some positive momentum.

Severe weather conditions in the UK have led to multiple airport disruptions. Liverpool Airport remains closed for snow clearing, while Bristol Airport resumed operations after suspending flights. Manchester Airport faced major disruptions with over 4,000 passengers affected, as runways were closed due to heavy snow, and 23 flights were diverted. Weather warnings for snow and ice remain across much of the UK, with 500 flood alerts and warnings in place. A severe flood warning is in effect in Leicestershire, where flooding poses a danger to life. Residents are urged to stay safe and follow safety guidelines.

Ukraine has launched a fresh offensive in Russia’s Kursk region, with President Zelenskyy claiming heavy Russian losses. In five months, nearly 15,000 Russian troops have reportedly died, though figures remain unverified. Zelenskyy stated that a buffer zone was established, preventing Moscow from reallocating forces to critical fronts in Donetsk, Sumy, and Kharkiv. Russia’s Ministry of Defence countered, saying Ukrainian forces were destroyed near Berdin and highlighted Russian advances in eastern Ukraine, including Kurakhove's capture. Reports suggest 11,000 North Korean troops are aiding Russia, but Moscow has neither confirmed nor denied this. The conflict continues with significant territorial and military dynamics.

Two Indian companies, Raxuter Chemicals and Athos Chemicals, face charges for conspiring to distribute and import fentanyl precursor chemicals into the US. Bhavesh Lathiya, a senior executive at Raxuter Chemicals, was arrested in New York and could face up to 53 years in prison if convicted. This marks the first instance of Indian firms being charged for such offenses, as fentanyl remains the deadliest drug threat in the US, being 50x stronger than heroin. US officials vowed to combat illicit fentanyl production by targeting foreign precursor exporters. The charges include smuggling, conspiracy, and knowing distribution for fentanyl production.

The Election Commission has announced Delhi’s single-phase assembly elections, with voting scheduled for February 5 and results on February 8. The nomination process starts on January 10, with withdrawals allowed until January 20. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar emphasized the integrity of India's electoral process, addressing allegations of voter roll deletions and EVM tampering as baseless. Delhi has 1.55 crore registered voters, marking a 1.09% increase. Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party seeks a third term in the 70-seat assembly. The election process, including vote counting, will conclude by February 10, ensuring a smooth democratic transition.

A 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Tibet's holy city of Shigatse at 9:00 am local time on Tuesday, leaving 95 dead and 130 injured. Over 1,000 buildings were damaged, and power and water supplies disrupted. Tremors were felt in Nepal and parts of India. Rescue teams are distributing relief as temperatures drop below freezing. Chinese President Xi Jinping urged all-out rescue efforts. Shigatse, home to the Panchen Lama, is a religious and cultural hub. The epicenter, near Mount Everest, prompted the cancellation of sightseeing tours. Authorities warned of potential aftershocks but ruled out larger quakes. Nepal reported minor damage but no casualties.

Seattle police officer Kevin Dave, responsible for killing 23-year-old Indian student Jaahnavi Kandula in January 2023, has been dismissed. Driving 74 mph to a drug overdose call, Dave struck Kandula, throwing her 100 feet. Interim Chief Sue Rahr said his reckless driving caused the tragic loss, despite no criminal charges being pursued. The firing follows public outrage over another officer's insensitive comments about the incident. India’s Consulate General in Seattle remains in touch with Kandula’s family, ensuring justice. The case highlights police accountability and the need for systemic reforms to prevent such tragedies.

Two children, aged 7 and 14, tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Nagpur, Maharashtra, bringing India’s total cases to 9. Admitted to a private hospital in Ramdaspeth on January 3 with fever and cough, their tests confirmed HMPV, a respiratory virus causing symptoms like fever, cough, and sore throat. Maharashtra health officials are on high alert, urging residents to take precautions against Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI). Union Health Minister assured the public that HMPV is not new and measures are in place. States have been advised to enhance surveillance and raise awareness about preventive steps.