Rorisang Modiba delivers daily updates from around the world.
Australia – Kai McKenzie, a 23-year-old Australian surfer, lost his right leg in a shark attack in Port Macquarie, New South Wales. He managed to get to shore, and a bystander used a dog’s lead as a bandage. Locals found his severed leg and put it on ice. McKenzie was airlifted to a trauma centre, where doctors are seeing if they can reattach his leg. He is in serious but stable condition. A GoFundMe campaign for him has raised over AU$100,000 (R1.2-million). McKenzie had just returned to surfing after recovering from a neck injury.
USA – President Joe Biden, speaking to the nation after ending his re-election bid, focused on his achievements and the need for party unity. Biden faced pressure due to low poll numbers and a poor debate performance. He suggested that he stepped down to help save American democracy, while Donald Trump claimed Biden quit because he was losing badly.
Philippines – Typhoon Gaemi has made heavy rains worse in the Philippines, leading to floods and landslides that killed at least 13 people and displaced over 600,000. Manila and parts of Luzon received over 300 mm of rain. People were seen in chest-deep water, some clinging to power lines, and others were waiting to be rescued on roofs. Gaemi later hit Taiwan as a Category 3 hurricane, killing two people, injuring nearly 300, and causing heavy rain and shutdowns.
Las Vegas – Celine Dion is close to finalising a new Las Vegas residency at Resorts World, according to TMZ. The singer, who has been dealing with stiff person syndrome, has been negotiating for months to start a short-term residency in late 2024 or early 2025. Dion, 56, revealed her diagnosis in December 2022, leading to a break from performing. Despite this, she is eager to return to the stage and reconnect with her audience.
Pictured above: Kai McKenzie.
Source: Instagram
