The death toll from severe flooding across Central Europe has tragically risen to 24, affecting the Czech Republic, Poland, Romania, and Austria. The relentless heavy rains have now spread to Northern Italy, prompting the evacuation of over 1,000 residents. In response to the crisis, train services have been suspended and schools closed in the impacted regions. Italian officials have urged patience as recovery efforts begin, acknowledging the area's vulnerability to natural disasters.

Authorities expressed cautious optimism, hoping for a reduction in bad weather in the coming hours, but warned that the region remains fragile and susceptible to further natural attacks. This area was previously struck by similar weather events last year, which resulted in 17 fatalities and approximately $9 billion in damages.

In a separate development, a Hong Kong court has issued its first sentences under a controversial national security law, with one individual receiving 14 months in prison for wearing a protest slogan on a shirt, while another was sentenced to 10 months for inscribing pro-independence messages on bus seats. These actions are linked to the anti-government protests that erupted in 2019. The new law, which took effect in March, enforces stricter penalties for seditious acts, drawing criticism for its implications on freedom of expression.

As these significant events unfold, discussions continue regarding various political issues, including proposals to eliminate taxes on tips and the contentious topic of ocean floor mining.