Hurricane Melissa, a catastrophic Category 5 storm, made landfall in Jamaica on Tuesday morning, October 28, 2025. According to the US National Hurricane Center, the hurricane unleashed maximum sustained winds of up to 295 kilometers per hour, posing severe threats to the Caribbean island. The storm’s arrival has triggered widespread flooding and significant damage across Kingston, Jamaica’s capital, as torrential rains and powerful winds battered the region. Emergency services have been mobilized to assist affected communities, while residents brace for further destruction. Hurricane Melissa’s intensity underscores the growing concerns over increasingly powerful storms in the Atlantic hurricane season, attributed to climate change. Authorities have issued urgent warnings for residents to seek shelter and avoid unnecessary travel. The hurricane’s trajectory is being closely monitored as it moves across the Caribbean, with potential impacts on neighboring nations.
标签： North America
北美洲
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The AI job cuts are here – or are they?
The recent wave of corporate layoffs, spearheaded by tech giant Amazon, has reignited concerns about Artificial Intelligence (AI) replacing human jobs. Amazon’s decision to cut approximately 14,000 corporate roles follows similar workforce reductions by companies like Chegg, Salesforce, and UPS, all of which have cited AI as a contributing factor. However, experts caution against attributing these layoffs solely to AI, emphasizing the complexity of corporate dynamics and broader economic trends. Martha Gimbel, executive director of Yale University’s Budget Lab, argues that attributing job losses to AI based on executive statements during layoffs is a flawed approach. She highlights that company-specific factors, such as overhiring during the pandemic and the Federal Reserve’s interest rate hikes, play significant roles. A study by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis found a correlation between AI adoption and rising unemployment since 2022, particularly in sectors like office and administrative support. Yet, Morgan Frank, an assistant professor at the University of Pittsburgh, notes that only certain occupations, such as administrative roles, have been directly impacted by AI advancements like ChatGPT. For tech and math-related jobs, the impact remains negligible. The broader economic context, including the pandemic hiring surge and subsequent corrections, complicates the narrative. Enrico Moretti, an economics professor at UC Berkeley, points out that companies like Amazon, which both produce and consume AI, are uniquely positioned to automate roles quickly. Lawrence Schmidt of MIT Sloan School of Management adds that job reallocation, rather than outright job loss, is a more likely outcome. As the debate continues, distinguishing between cyclical economic patterns and AI-driven disruptions remains a critical challenge for policymakers and businesses alike.
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Trump reveals he underwent MRI scan, says results were ‘perfect’
Former US President Donald Trump disclosed on Monday that he recently underwent an MRI scan, describing the results as ‘perfect.’ The 79-year-old Republican, who is the oldest person ever inaugurated as president, did not elaborate on the reasons for the medical screening, instead directing reporters to consult his physicians. This revelation follows an unexpected visit to Walter Reed Medical Center earlier in October, which had sparked widespread speculation about his health. Trump, who will turn 80 in June, has faced criticism for a perceived lack of transparency regarding his physical condition. During a conversation with reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump emphasized the positive outcome of the scan, stating, ‘I gave you the full results. We had an MRI, and the machine, you know, the whole thing, and it was perfect.’ MRI scans are commonly used to diagnose a variety of conditions, ranging from tumors and strokes to muscle tears and inflammation. The White House had not previously provided an explanation for the October 10 hospital visit, which was unusual given that presidents typically undergo only one comprehensive medical examination annually. Trump also addressed concerns about his health, asserting, ‘Nobody has ever given you reports like I gave you. And if I didn’t think it was going to be good, either, I would let you know negatively.’ His physician, Navy Captain Sean Barbabella, confirmed in a White House-released letter that Trump continues to exhibit ‘excellent overall health.’ The former president has been observed with bruising on his right hand during his second term, which the administration attributes to his use of aspirin as part of a cardiovascular health regimen. Additionally, Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency earlier this year, a common vein condition that can cause swelling and cramping but is treatable with medication or medical procedures.
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Climate change ‘will not end civilisation’: Bill Gates points out 3 tough truths
Billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates is urging a paradigm shift in the global approach to climate change, emphasizing that solutions should prioritize human welfare over mere temperature targets. In his recent memo titled ‘A New Way to Look at the Problem,’ Gates argues that the fight against climate change must not undermine health, development, and poverty reduction, particularly in the world’s poorest nations. He calls for a ‘strategic pivot’ from focusing solely on limiting rising temperatures to addressing poverty and preventing diseases. Gates reassures that while climate change is a serious issue, it ‘will not be the end of civilisation,’ and he believes that innovation and science will be central to managing its impacts. He projects that by 2100, average global temperatures could rise by 2°C to 3°C compared to pre-industrial levels, surpassing the 1.5°C limit set by the 2015 Paris Agreement. However, he is optimistic that new zero-carbon technologies will become widely available within the next decade, enabling countries to meet rising energy demands without exacerbating climate change. Gates also stresses that success in combating climate change should be measured by improvements in people’s lives, especially in low-income countries, rather than just reductions in emissions or global temperature. Through Breakthrough Energy, Gates has supported over 150 companies working on solutions ranging from low-carbon cement and steel to advanced geothermal energy and AI-driven agriculture. He warns that climate policies must not deepen inequality, citing examples of well-meaning policies that left poor communities worse off, such as fertiliser bans that caused food shortages. Gates believes that focusing on energy, agriculture, and health will have the greatest impact on people’s ability to withstand climate challenges, particularly in developing nations. He emphasizes that health and economic growth can reduce climate-related deaths more effectively than any single environmental measure, citing research from the University of Chicago’s Climate Impact Lab that shows economic growth in low-income countries could cut climate-related deaths by more than 50% by the end of the century. Gates outlines two key priorities for the international climate agenda: driving the Green Premium — the extra cost of choosing clean technologies over fossil fuels — down to zero, and rigorously measuring impact to ensure limited resources go toward initiatives that deliver the greatest benefits for human welfare, from vaccines and malaria prevention to agricultural innovation.
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iCAUR hosts Global User Summit in Wuhu, China
From October 17 to 21, 2025, iCAUR hosted its annual Global User Summit in Wuhu, China, under the theme ‘Co-create, Co-define.’ The event attracted over a thousand attendees, including media representatives, users, and distributors from across the globe. The summit featured product showcases, off-road driving sessions, and ESG-focused activities, highlighting iCAUR’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. The exhibition area, designed with wood textures and soft tones, created a luxurious yet natural ambiance, allowing guests to explore the brand’s customization ecosystem and witness the fusion of innovation and personal expression. Attendees shared their experiences through livestreams, videos, and photos, capturing the essence of iCAUR’s craftsmanship and creativity. The Tech Interaction Zone showcased AiMOGA humanoid robots and robot dogs in a synchronized dance performance, drawing widespread admiration. A guest from the UAE remarked, ‘They’re incredible — we really need this too!’ emphasizing the potential of such innovations in enhancing global user experiences. The off-road driving sessions tested iCAUR’s vehicles on challenging terrains, including high-speed curves, slopes, wave tracks, and muddy trails. Despite light rain, models like the V27, V23, and 03T, equipped with Golden Range Extender technology and the i-AWD system, demonstrated exceptional performance. On the Crescent Track, the advanced suspension and damping systems ensured smooth handling, earning praise from participants. A Middle Eastern guest noted, ‘Driving the V27 through rough terrain — it’s hard to believe this is a boxy SUV. The comfort really surprised me.’ Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon visited the exhibition and personally experienced iCAUR’s vehicles, describing the brand as ‘very unique’ and expressing strong interest in the latest models. The summit also marked a significant milestone in iCAUR’s global expansion, with CEO Si Fenghuo signing distributor agreements with partners from Malaysia, the UAE, and Oman. In Oman, iCAUR will collaborate with SBG, the country’s leading automotive group, to accelerate its strategic growth across the Middle East.
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Dubai: 48 barbers set Guinness World Record with a beard trim every 19 seconds
In a remarkable display of precision and teamwork, 48 barbers from across the GCC and Lebanon made history at the Beautyworld Middle East 2025 event in Dubai. Under the banner of BeautyLive by Fresha and in collaboration with STMNT Grooming, these skilled professionals achieved a Guinness World Record for the most consecutive beard trims and shaves completed in one hour by a team. The event, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, saw 190 men groomed in just 60 minutes, averaging one trim every 19 seconds. Each barber attended to approximately four clients, spending around 15 minutes per person. The achievement not only set a new benchmark but also introduced a fresh category to the Guinness World Records. The atmosphere was electric, with music playing, cameras rolling, and the crowd cheering as the barbers worked in perfect harmony. For participants like Khaled Kabboul from Director’s Cut and Amir Manzour from Mantis Barbershop, the event was a testament to the artistry and community spirit of barbering. ‘This moment is huge for us,’ said Kabboul. ‘We showed that barbering isn’t just a service; it’s a form of art, skill, and community.’ Manzour added, ‘Being part of something this historic means a lot. It was intense but deeply fulfilling.’ The successful attempt was meticulously monitored and verified by Guinness World Records adjudicators, who confirmed the new record. This event not only celebrated the craft of barbering but also highlighted Dubai’s penchant for hosting extraordinary achievements.
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Half of US states sue Trump administration over halting food stamps
A coalition of 25 U.S. states and the District of Columbia has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over its decision to halt funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. The program, which supports over 40 million low-income Americans, faces a potential funding crisis as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) refuses to tap into a $6 billion emergency contingency fund. The USDA argues the reserve may be needed for emergencies like natural disasters, but the lawsuit contends this move is unlawful and would leave millions unable to afford groceries. This marks the first time in SNAP’s history that funds would not be distributed. The lawsuit, led by Democratic attorneys general, warns that cutting SNAP benefits would lead to food insecurity, hunger, and malnutrition, particularly harming children. States involved include California, New York, and Illinois, among others. California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the decision, calling it ‘cruel’ and accusing President Trump of lacking humanity. The USDA, in response, blamed Democrats for the funding shortfall, urging them to prioritize reopening the government. Even if the contingency fund is used, it would only cover 60% of one month’s benefits, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. Some states, like Massachusetts, lack the resources to cover the shortfall, while others, including California, are deploying the National Guard to assist with food distribution. The ongoing federal government shutdown, now in its 28th day, has exacerbated the crisis, making it the second-longest in U.S. history.
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Vicenzaoro 2025 underscores storytelling’s role in the future of luxury jewellery
The Vicenzaoro 2025 trade fair, held in Italy, has firmly established storytelling as a cornerstone of the luxury jewellery industry’s evolution. This premier global event brought together top brands, designers, and strategists to explore how heritage, innovation, and responsibility are reshaping the sector. Discussions and panels emphasized a significant shift in focus, with cultural narratives, ethical sourcing, and technological advancements now standing alongside traditional craftsmanship and design as key drivers of the industry. Sessions like ‘The Quantum Age’ delved into jewellery’s expanding role at the intersection of identity, culture, and technology, highlighting the need for storytelling to adapt to diverse markets, including India and China. Zhanna Kirkland, a seasoned industry strategist, noted that storytelling has transitioned from a marketing tactic to a strategic necessity in today’s values-driven luxury landscape. She emphasized that consumers increasingly seek transparency and emotional connections, making authentic narratives essential for building trust and loyalty. The VO Vintage segment underscored the importance of provenance, linking jewellery to its historical and cultural legacy. Organizers also previewed upcoming sustainability initiatives and technology integrations that will shape future editions of the fair. Kirkland encapsulated the prevailing sentiment: ‘The future of jewellery lies not just in its design but in the authenticity of the stories it tells and the connections it fosters.’
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Trump appeals against conviction in hush-money case
Former US President Donald Trump has launched an appeal to overturn his May 2024 criminal conviction in the high-profile hush-money case, asserting that presidential immunity shields him from prosecution. Trump was unanimously found guilty by a New York jury on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. Despite the conviction, a New York judge granted him an unconditional discharge in December, citing his imminent return to the White House, meaning he faced no jail time or fines. Trump’s legal team has labeled the case as “the most politically charged prosecution in our nation’s history” and argued that it should never have reached the courtroom. The Manhattan District Attorney’s office, which prosecuted Trump, has yet to comment on the appeal. The case stems from allegations that Trump directed his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, to pay $130,000 to adult film star Stormy Daniels to silence her claims of a past sexual encounter before the 2016 election. While the payment itself was not illegal, prosecutors claimed Trump fraudulently recorded reimbursements to Cohen as legal expenses to conceal the transaction’s true purpose. The trial coincided with Trump’s re-election campaign, with prosecutors arguing that the cover-up constituted election interference by withholding critical information from voters. Trump has consistently denied all charges. Following the conviction, the US Supreme Court ruled in June 2024 that presidents enjoy broad immunity from criminal prosecution for “official acts” during their tenure. Trump’s lawyers have since argued that this immunity should apply to the hush-money case and that certain evidence should have been excluded as it pertained to his first presidency. Justice Juan Merchan, who presided over the case, rejected this argument, but Trump’s team has long signaled their intent to appeal. The case will now proceed to the New York Appellate Division, First Department, which previously dismissed a $500 million civil fraud penalty against Trump in a separate case brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James. While the appellate judges upheld the fraud finding, they deemed the financial penalties unjustified.
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UAE: Gang robbing bank customers busted in Fujairah; criminals wanted in other city
In a swift and decisive operation, Fujairah Police successfully apprehended a criminal gang notorious for targeting bank customers, just three hours after they executed their latest heist. The gang, which had been on the radar of law enforcement in another emirate, was involved in a sophisticated scheme that resulted in the theft of Dh195,000 from a woman. The incident unfolded on the morning of October 23, when the victim reported being deceived by the criminals. The perpetrators had lured her out of her vehicle by falsely claiming there was an issue with her rear tire. Seizing the opportunity, one of the thieves accessed the opposite door and made off with the cash. The police, acting promptly, formed a specialized unit to investigate the crime. Through coordinated efforts with Sharjah Police, the suspects were identified, arrested, and handed over to the relevant authorities for legal proceedings. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant, especially when leaving banks, and to report any suspicious activities immediately. This incident highlights the ongoing efforts by UAE law enforcement to combat organized crime and ensure public safety. Earlier this year, Fujairah’s judicial system also handed down severe penalties in unrelated cases, including life sentences for drug smuggling and jail terms for privacy violations, underscoring the emirate’s commitment to upholding the law.