Strong and Shallow Quake Rocks Mexico

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INTERNATIONAL: An earthquake has hit just north of the famous Mexican resort town of Acapulco. Lasting a full minute, it had a magnitude of 7 and caused buildings to rock. It was felt as far away as Mexico City, 240 kilometres to the north, where traffic lights were filmed swaying. Damage has been reported but details are still limited. The US Geological Survey says the quake struck at a depth of about 12 kilometers, making it a relatively shallow quake, which often have a much more powerful impact.

Arson Suspected in Spanish Wildfire

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An out-of-control wildfire is believed to have been started deliberately in the northwestern Spanish region of Galicia. The blaze is raging near the small town of Ribas de Sil, and is sending huge plumes of smoke high into the air. Surrounding roads and train lines have been closed. Spain's military emergency unit has sent reinforcements to back up the local fire brigade. 49 ground teams, 8 planes and 14 helicopters are fighting the fire. Hot weather and low humidity are complicating the effort. Wildfires have ravaged almost 75-thousand hectares in Spain this year, making it the worst year for fires in a decade.

SA President Welcomes Medical Parole for Predecessor

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And, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has applauded the release of his predecessor on medical parole. Cyril Ramaphosa says, “We've also received and taken note of the decision by the Correctional Services National Commissioner to release comrade Jacob Zuma from incarceration on medical parole - we welcome this. We've heard that he's not well and we'd like to wish him quick recovery as he's restored back to his home to be with his loved ones."

Prison authorities say the former president underwent surgery last month, just as he started a 15-month sentence for contempt of court. He apparently remains in hospital with more operations planned. The 79-year-old was jailed for defying a Constitutional Court order to give evidence at a high-level corruption inquiry. His jailing sparked widespread rioting and looting that his successor described as an insurrection.