Forest Fires Spread in Southern Turkey

The forest fires along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast are spreading. Plumes of smoke filled the air in the coastal resort of Marmaris on Friday, coming perilously close to a residential area. Flames could be seen soaring into the sky near houses and hotels. The fire broke out in the popular tourist destination just as authorities were fighting a separate blaze along the coast where at least three people have been killed. Rescue efforts are also underway in the town of Bodrum. Hotels and villages in the area have all been evacuated. Firefighters and civilians are working together to try and bring the blaze under control, with the help of dozens of helicopters. The Turkish minister of agriculture says bringing the blazes under control "might take time". An investigation is underway into their cause.

US Brings First-Ever Sexual Misconduct Charges Against Former Cardinal

Former Roman Catholic Cardinal Theodore McCarrick has been charged with sexually assaulting a teenager at a wedding reception in Massachusetts back in 1974. McCarrick, who is now 91-years-old, was defrocked in 2019 after a Vatican investigation found him guilty of sexual abuse. A report released by the Vatican in November 2020 found that he had risen through the church's ranks despite persistent rumors of sexual misconduct with teenage boys. He was even promoted in 2000 by Pope John Paul II. His attorney says that he’s looking forward to addressing the case in court. It’s the first time that a US cardinal has been criminally charged with a sexual crime against a minor.

Extremely Rare Snow in Southern Brazil

And, evidence of climate change continues to be seen around the world. It might be winter in Brazil, but it’s been over 60 years since snow was seen in the southern part of the country. Cars, streets and highways are covered with snow after heavy snowfalls on Wednesday night. Excited families and tourists have used the opportunity to play in the snow, build snowmen and take pictures. At least 30 cities in the state of Rio do Sul experienced snowfall, brought on by a polar vortex.