An Alaska Airlines flight faced a harrowing incident, necessitating an emergency landing in Oregon after a mid-air window blowout and fuselage damage. A passenger shared a photo revealing a significant hole beside seats. It remains unclear if injuries occurred. The airline, investigating the incident, reported Flight 1282 safely landed with 174 passengers and 6 crew members. Departing from Portland to Ontario, the Boeing 737-9 MAX experienced the issue just after departure. The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board are involved in the ongoing investigation. The flight descended from 16,000 feet, with items, including phones, reportedly sucked out.

Five days after a powerful 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck central Japan on New Year's Day, the death toll has risen to 98, with 211 individuals still unaccounted for in the Ishikawa region. Rescue efforts have shifted to recovery, hindered by adverse weather conditions and damaged infrastructure. The quake caused widespread destruction, sinking fishing boats, triggering tsunami waves, and igniting fires that engulfed hundreds of structures. Over 450 people are reported injured, with power and water outages affecting thousands. Authorities are grappling with challenges in isolated villages, emphasizing ongoing rescue operations. Japan, with a history of earthquakes, mourns another tragic disaster.

The US State Department is offering rewards up to $10 million for information leading to the disruption of Hamas's financial networks. The bounty targets five Hamas financiers based in Sudan, Turkey, and Qatar who have funneled tens of millions to the militant group. They were previously designated as global terrorists by the US. The rewards aim to cut off revenue streams funding Hamas's violent actions against Israel. Over 1,200 Israelis and 22,600 Gazans have died in recent clashes. Any details on Hamas donors, front companies, or financial schemes would qualify for payouts. It follows four rounds of US sanctions on Hamas since fighting escalated in October.

13-year-old Willis Gibson of Oklahoma claims a groundbreaking achievement as the first person to conquer Nintendo's Tetris, 34 years post-release. His YouTube video captures the moment he reaches level 157, causing the game to crash, stunning the gaming community. In just 38 minutes, Willis defies the believed limit of level 29. Tetris, a classic since 1984, gained immense popularity on NES and Game Boy. Willis, aka Blue Scuti, not only beats the game but also sets overall score and three Tetris world records. The teenage prodigy's accomplishment sparks a wave of gaming enthusiasts attempting to break his records.

Sky News presenter Jayne Secker faces criticism for telling 13-year-old Tetris record breaker, Willis Gibson, to 'go outside' and 'get some fresh air.' Gibson's historic feat, beating the 80s puzzler, drew global attention. Secker's comments, labeled 'disappointing' and 'old-fashioned,' ignited a backlash. Twitch streamer Nikolas emphasized the dedication behind such gaming challenges, urging presenters to understand their significance. Ukie, representing the UK games industry, highlighted gaming's positive impact. Co-CEO Dan Wood said, 'It's high time we throw out those outdated perceptions.' Sky News is yet to address the controversy, leaving the gaming community advocating for a more nuanced perspective.

Tesla founder Elon Musk advocates for significant immigration reforms in the United States, labeling the current system as "madness." Responding to a chart highlighting challenges for skilled workers, Musk suggests halting illegal immigration while substantially increasing legal immigration. Many Indians stuck in green card backlogs applaud Musk's stance. The current system's complexity and lengthy processes create bottlenecks, contrasting with the substantial contributions of foreign talent to the US economy, particularly in STEM fields. Musk's call resonates with those facing prolonged waits for permanent residency, emphasizing the need for a streamlined and efficient immigration process.

London braces for severe disruption as the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) confirms strike action on the Underground. Talks to resolve a pay dispute collapsed, leading to walkouts between January 5-12. Full impact hits Sunday evening, with train operators, drivers, and various staff participating. Initial 24-hour strikes begin at Ruislip Depot on Friday, escalating to almost 10,000 RMT members across the Tube network from Monday to Wednesday. RMT demands a fair deal on pay, travel facilities, and grading structures. Transport for London cites budget constraints, calling the offered pay rise the most affordable amid efforts to save £230m.

Bangladesh's election on Sunday appears set to secure Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's fifth term, as opposition parties, decimated by mass arrests, boycott the polls. Hasina's Awami League touts economic growth but faces accusations of human rights abuses. The ruling party's avoidance of certain seats raises questions about a one-party institution. Many young voters express disinterest, citing a lack of genuine choice. The opposition demands a neutral caretaker government. Observers suggest the vote may lack credibility, potentially leading to post-election political unrest. Hasina's economic successes are overshadowed by rising discontent, creating a potentially dangerous political landscape.

Mayor Sadiq Khan is considering the implementation of a free WiFi network across London, aiming to improve internet access for residents, tourists, and remote workers. The initiative, backed by a £20,000 allocation, aims to provide seamless connectivity, aiding navigation, business transactions, and alleviating roaming costs for international visitors. Key stakeholders, including the Wireless Broadband Alliance and mobile network operators, will be consulted. Khan envisions an enhanced digital experience for all in the vibrant capital, aligning with his efforts to bolster connectivity, including high-speed mobile coverage in the London transport network. Recommendations are anticipated in the coming year.

A floating bar and restaurant boat owned by Bar & Co sank in the River Thames off Temple Pier on Thursday afternoon. The vessel sank amid heavy rainfall that has flooded parts of London. An alarm was raised around 12:30pm after the boat began taking on water. Rescue crews including the RNLI, police, and fire brigade rushed to the scene. All people on board the party boat were safely accounted for. No injuries were reported. The boat's owner stated the sinking was likely due to the severe weather conditions. A Met Office yellow warning for heavy rain was in effect at the time. The Port of London Authority has advised ships to pass the area with extreme caution due to the sunken vessel.