Texans Still Powerless: In the wake of Hurricane Beryl many Texans are entering their fourth day without power. 11 people throughout Louisiana and Texas are dead, and 1.3 million homes and businesses are still waiting for the restoration of electric service. Public services are trying to distribute food in the midst of the breakdown of logistics networks, while residents running generators to keep their homes cool are finding themselves at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Climate change driven 90 degree temperatures across much of Texas and high humidity are likely to add to the record setting heat-related death toll of 28 lives since July 1.
Montreal Rains: A record-breaking downpour in Montreal caused major disruptions on highways. Major roadways were closed for hours due to flooding, while some drivers who attempted to make their way through standing water were forced to abandon their cars after becoming stuck. Around 2.5 inches of rain fell in a short period of time, more than double the record for July 10 in 1945. The region remains braced for more rain as the remains of Hurricane Beryl are expected to arrive on Thursday.
Older than Machu Picchu: Archeologists in Peru have discovered a 4,000 year old temple and theater complex, predating the famous ruins at Machu Pichu by almost 3,500 years. It dates to a period of history which is not well understood, even before the era when the mysterious Nazca Lines were carved. Archeologists became aware of the site when looting of artifacts from an unknown source was reported in a nearby town.
Consumer Prices Fall: After three years of inflation that started during the height of the pandemic the Consumer Price Index reported a drop of 0.1 percent from May, which the Bureau of Labor Statistics noted will reduce the annual inflation rate to 3 percent after hitting 3.3 percent in May. The news, while hard for consumers to actually perceive, has spurred hope that the Federal Reserve might soon cut interest rates.
Shelley Duvall: The actress, famed for her roles in The Shining, Nashville, and her striking appearance, has passed away at the age of 75. She passed this morning at her home in Blanco, Texas. Duvall held awards from the Cannes Film Festival for Best Actress for her appearance in 3 Women. Her last appearance in film was the independent hoor movie The Forest Hills.
