6.4 magnitude earthquake hits Northern Chile
An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.4 occurred in northern Chile on Friday around 1:15 p.m. local time, approximately 950 km north of Santiago and 54 km south of Diego de Almagro in the Atacama area. The quake occurred at a depth of 65 km and was felt in nearby towns, according to Associated Press.
There were reports of power outages but no fatalities. Authorities are evaluating the extent of the damage to vital services and infrastructure. There is no chance of a tsunami, according to Chile's Navy.
The seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire is where Chile is located, Associated Press reported.
Wildfire smoke worsens air quality in major Canadian cities
Wildfire smoke from northern Ontario and the Prairies caused poor air quality and restricted visibility in Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal on Friday. Environment Canada issued specific air quality warnings, advising individuals who are vulnerable to avoid outdoor activities and seek medical attention if symptoms develop, according to Associated Press.
Meteorologist David Phillips told that wildfire activity is increasing nationwide, significantly impacting air quality. “Only a few see the flames, but millions smell the smoke,” he noted.
According to IQAir, Toronto recorded the second-worst air quality in the world Friday afternoon, Associated Press reported.
Houthis claim missile attack on Ben Gurion Airport
The Houthi group in Yemen said it launched a hypersonic ballistic missile at Israel's Ben Gurion Airport on Thursday in retaliation for Israeli actions in Beirut and Gaza. Israel said the missile was intercepted.
Israel remained silent after the Houthis claimed two drone attacks on the airport a day earlier.
Since November 2023, Iran-backed Houthis have used drones and missiles to attack Israel in support of the Palestinians. Israeli defense systems have stopped the majority of attacks, according to Al Jazeera.
Thailand warns of military action over border tensions with Cambodia
Thailand’s military has declared readiness for a “high-level operation” in response to rising tensions with Cambodia over a disputed border area. The statement follows intelligence reports suggesting Cambodia has increased its military presence along the shared frontier.
The Thai army stated that it intends to prevent escalation but is fully prepared to preserve national sovereignty if required. Troops have been instructed to maintain vigilance and ensure that all equipment is operating, according to Al Jazeera.
A closed-door conference of Thailand's top military officers is slated for Friday, and all armed forces have increased battle preparedness.
