Tropical Storm Rafael in the Caribbean is forecast to likely become a hurricane by Wednesday and could impact the U.S. Gulf Coast by Saturday. It is expected to affect Jamaica and the Cayman Islands with heavy rainfall and storm surges before moving toward Cuba. Uncertainty remains about its path, with potential impacts on Florida and the Southeast U.S. (UPI)
A female student in Iran was arrested after protesting alleged harassment by removing her clothes outside her university. The incident, captured on social media, led to her detention in a psychiatric hospital. Human rights groups have called for her immediate release and investigation into reported abuse during arrest. (CBS News)
A Philadelphia judge has rejected a request to halt Elon Musk’s America PAC’s million-dollar giveaway to registered swing state voters, which has already distributed $17 million across swing states. Musk’s attorney revealed the winners were preselected, contrary to claims of a random selection, leading to accusations of election influence. (ABC News)
Dallas singer Jada Arnell Thomas was shot onstage after a performance with The Black Academy of Arts and Letters. The suspect, Micah Williams, was arrested and charged with aggravated assault. Thomas is in stable condition. The motive and their relationship are unknown. TBAAL’s founder announced enhanced safety measures. (NBC News)
In 2024, a record number of first-time homebuyers used inheritances to finance down payments, reflecting a trend of older and wealthier buyers. The survey highlighted the challenges in buying homes, with first-time buyers at a historic low and relying more on gifts from relatives. Repeat buyers had larger down payments and median incomes. (CNN)
