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Victorias scorching heatwave fuels devastating bushfires, echoing the Black Summer inferno, as families lose homes and communities grapple with unpredictable fires and looming heat events.

Queensland residents face worsening floods as ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji brings heavy rain, flash floods, and landslips. The central coast, Capricornia districts, and inland areas like the central highlands and Bowen Basin coal fields are on high alert. Widespread storms are expected Tuesday and Wednesday, piling on top of floods from heavy New Year rains. The impacts are severe, with nearly fifty thousand head of livestock missing or dead in the Gulf Country. Recovery efforts continue as Queensland braces for more rain.

Victoria grapples with a catastrophic bushfire crisis, claiming one life and destroying hundreds of buildings and farms. The Black Summer-level event has led to a shift in focus towards recovery, with a public donation appeal launched. Despite easing weather, authorities warn of potential flare-ups and another heat event looming. Local heroes like Cathie Harper, who lost her home, embody the resilience and spirit of the community.

Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S. Pope, meets with Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, amidst political turmoil in Venezuela. The Vatican confirms the meeting, while Machado, barred from running in the 2024 election, praises Trumps military intervention. The Pope calls for Venezuelas independence and criticizes military force, hinting at new diplomatic paths ahead.

The Golden Globes delivered surprising wins, with Timothée Chalamet snagging best actor for Marty Supreme and Paul Thomas Andersons One Battle After Another dominating with screenplay and supporting actress wins. However, Ryan Cooglers Sinners faced a near shutout, sparking fan backlash. The Globes overhaul spotlighted international talent, while biopics struggled. Stellan Skarsgård emerged as a potential Oscar contender, and creative literary adaptations like One Battle gained traction. As momentum builds, Oscar voters could still course-correct on Sinners, setting the stage for a wild awards season.

Swiss Court Detains Bar Owner in New Years Fire Tragedy: Jacques Moretti, co-owner of Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, is held pending trial for a fire that killed 40, mostly young partygoers. The blaze started from a sparkler igniting foam insulation. Morettis wifes lawyers welcome the ruling, hoping for his release under certain conditions as families seek justice.

Former Conservative minister Nadhim Zahawi defects to Nigel Farages Reform UK, citing Britains broken state. Reform UK surges in polls, capitalizing on voter discontent over immigration, crime, and public service decline. Zahawis move signals growing discontent, potentially shaking up British politics.

Heavy rain and severe thunderstorms threaten northern Western Australia, with flash flooding possible in Newman, Paraburdoo, Tom Price, Three Rivers, Nullagine, and Jigalong. Residents urged to seek shelter, unplug appliances, and avoid driving in poor conditions. Stay updated with Bureau of Meteorology alerts.