A weekend of severe weather is forecast across eastern Australia, with Queensland expecting heavy rain, damaging winds, and hail. Political tensions are escalating as former Liberal MPs criticize the decision to abandon net zero targets, while protests against a defense expo in Sydney lead to multiple arrests. In a heartwarming story, a grandmother from Gaza reunites with her family in Sydney after years of separation.

Severe Weather Warnings Across Eastern Australia
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe weather warnings for eastern Australia as storms are expected to hit from Friday. Queensland is particularly at risk, with forecasts predicting up to 80mm of rain, large hail, and possible flash flooding. Areas in north-eastern New South Wales are also likely to experience heavy rainfall and severe storms. Authorities are urging residents to prepare for potential flash floods and damaging winds throughout the weekend.

Political Fallout Over Climate Policy
In political news, at least three former Liberal MPs have condemned the party's recent decision to abandon its net zero by 2050 commitment. They describe the move as an "existential crisis" that could alienate younger voters and diminish the party's chances in urban areas. The former politicians argue that this decision could hinder the Liberal Party's ability to reclaim lost seats in upcoming elections, marking a significant shift in the party's approach to climate policy.

Protests Erupt at Sydney Weapons Expo
Twelve individuals have been charged following a large pro-Palestine protest outside a state-sponsored defense expo in Sydney. Hundreds gathered to voice their opposition to the presence of Israeli weapons companies at the event. Demonstrators chanted slogans calling for action regarding the West Bank and Gaza. Police deployed a significant presence to maintain order, resulting in several arrests as protesters attempted to blockade the venue.

Hailstorm Devastation in Queensland
Severe storms in Queensland have led to reports of large hail damaging properties, particularly in the Esk region. Authorities have warned of flash floods, destructive winds, and even tornadoes, with hailstones reported to be up to 8cm in diameter. Thousands of residents are currently without power as the storms continue to wreak havoc across the state.

Emotional Family Reunion at Sydney Airport
In a touching story, Fatma Badra, a 79-year-old grandmother from Gaza, has reunited with her family at Sydney Airport after being separated for 11 years. She is part of a group of approximately 60 Palestinians who arrived in Australia following a recent ceasefire agreement. Her son, Shamikh, expressed relief at the reunion, having faced significant challenges in bringing his mother to safety, including the loss of weight during her long wait for evacuation.

Environmental Activism and Wildlife Concerns
In environmental news, activists from the group Rising Tide painted "Tax Me" on a coal ship in Newcastle, calling for a 78% tax on fossil fuel export profits. They argue that the revenue should be used to support community and industrial transitions away from fossil fuels. Additionally, the death of a juvenile humpback whale, which became entangled in shark nets off the New South Wales coast, has reignited debates over the state's shark mesh net program. This incident marks the first confirmed whale death from entanglement in nets this year, raising concerns about the impact of such programs on marine life.

Wrap-up
As severe weather continues to affect eastern Australia, political tensions rise over climate policies, and emotional reunions highlight personal stories amid broader societal issues. The weekend's events underscore the intersection of environmental, political, and social challenges facing the nation.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team