Tarmo Hannula: There’s a chance of light rain this evening that could start around 7 p.m. The National Weather Service said the rain could continue into Wednesday morning. Also, king tides will arrive Friday through Sunday. King tides occur when the Earth, moon and sun are aligned, resulting in the largest tidal range over the course of a year.
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A major earthquake struck the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico early Tuesday. The 6.4 quake followed a magnitude 5.8 and a magnitude 5.0 quake Monday. A rash of quakes have rattled the island since December. The latest quake caused landslides, an island-wide power outage and damage to dozens of homes. Five homes collapsed altogether. No injuries were reported, the U.S. Geological Service said.
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Another vehicle has been struck with a projectile in an apparent random attack in Prunedale near Dunbarton Road on Highway 101 at 8 p.m. on Sunday. Thus far 69 vehicles have been struck since February causing five injuries and widespread damage, including scores of shattered windows. The CHP has labeled that Prunedale section of Highway 101 Projectile Alley. There is a $1,500 reward for anyone providing information that leads to an arrest of a suspect or suspects. Monterey Area commander Capt. Kyle Foster said: “We want to reassure the public that our task force, as well as our patrol officers, are diligently working on this investigation each day; it remains our top priority.”
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Blossom’s Farmstore & Coffee Shop in Corralitos celebrated a grand opening Monday inside the historic Five Mile House. Herbal remedies, organic produce, balms, tinctures, gifts and a full coffee bar fill out the former service station. Indoor and outdoor seating is offered at the corner of Freedom Boulevard at Corralitos Road.
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Tensions are escalating in big strides between the U.S. and Iran after President Trump ordered the killing of Major General Quasi Soleimani, the second-most powerful official in Iran, last week in a drone strike. The Pentagon is now deploying thousands of U.S. troops to Irag. More than 1 million people attended a funeral for Soleimani yesterday while Iran has stated there will be major retaliation. In response, Trump warned that the U.S. would militarily strike 52 cultural sites in Iran. Then, Defense Secretary Mark Esper ruled out striking cultural sites, claiming it would be a war crime.
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Major bushfires continue to burn in Australia, eliciting worldwide concern. Thus far 24 fatalities have been reported and it is assumed that entire species of animals and plant life will be made extinct by the fires. Officials say more than 1 billion animals have been killed already. It is being reported that the bush fires have burned more than 12.35 million acres, an area larger than Denmark. More than 1,500 homes have been destroyed. There are 146 fires burning with 65 of them are not contained. The country’s prime minister, Scott Morrison, continues to minimize any language regarding climate change and the country’s extreme climate condition, which is experiencing its hottest and driest year on record. He was widely criticized for taking a vacation to Hawaii last week, showing up in photos wearing a flowery shirt and a colorful lei while his country is dealing with the largest wildland fire in its history. A large body of firefighters from California is now arriving in Australia to assist. Singer Alecia Beth Moore, who goes by the name Pink, has pledged $500,000 to go directly to fighting the fire.
