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Southern California braces for a powerful storm system, potentially the wettest Christmas in years, with four to eight inches of rain expected, and even more in the mountains. Burn scar areas from January wildfires face high risk of flooding and mudslides. Residents in Lytle Creek are trapped as floodwaters wash out their bridge, and neighbors rally with supplies. Governor Newsom declares a state of emergency in six counties, deploying resources and putting the National Guard on standby.

A car displaying a Hanukkah chanukiah was firebombed outside a rabbis home in Melbourne, forcing the family to evacuate. This incident follows the Bondi Beach massacre, heightening fears across Jewish communities. Jeremy Leibler, president of the Zionist Federation of Australia, calls for anti-Semitism to be treated as a public safety crisis. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemn the attack, with police identifying a person of interest. Leibler pushes for a federal royal commission into anti-Semitism, as communities hope for real safety with hate speech crackdowns and stronger police powers.

Australians gear up for record-breaking Boxing Day sales, with over seven million shoppers planning to spend a whopping $3.1 billion. Experts advise tracking prices, signing up for retailer lists, and comparing final prices to secure the best deals. Be cautious of scammers, especially on social media, and stick to a budget and shopping list for a successful shopping spree.

Israeli forces eliminate Irans Quds Force operative in Lebanon, marking another blow to Hezbollahs rebuilding efforts. The strike, part of Israels ongoing campaign, comes after a brief war with Iran and a U.S.-backed ceasefire. Iran and Lebanon remain silent, but Israel continues to target threats from Iranian proxies.

Myanmars military intensifies operations ahead of sham elections, adding 80,000 troops through forced conscription and relying on advanced gear from Russia and China. The junta aims to boost its image by retaking strategic spots, despite fierce pushback from pro-democracy forces and ethnic militias. China steps in as mediator, pressuring militias to retreat from northern Shan state. Fighting continues in Rakhine state, where the Arakan Army holds most of the area, including the Bangladesh border vital for Chinese projects.

Pope Leos first Christmas Urbi et Orbi address, delivered in Vatican City, called for empathy towards those in need, such as Gaza residents and migrants. Despite rainy conditions, he revived multilingual greetings, particularly in English and Spanish, and prayed for peace in conflict zones. His message emphasized the importance of humility, listening, and sharing others pain for true change.

King Charles Christmas message from Westminster Abbey emphasized the importance of Second World War values in todays divisive world. He highlighted acts of bravery, such as a Syrian-born immigrant wrestling a gun from an attacker, and praised community spirit. The King, who sees his role as building bridges, wrote the message himself, drawing on religious themes and family moments. He ended with a Ukrainian choir singing Carol of the Bells, a reminder of peace, forgiveness, and getting to know our neighbors amidst uncertainty.