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New details revealed on how mosquito-‘ravaged' German backpacker was found alive in outback after major search

Sky News AU

9 hours ago

Sky News AU

New details revealed on how mosquito-‘ravaged' German backpacker was found alive in outback after major search

Fresh details on the "remarkable" discovery of a German backpacker who was missing after spending 12 days in the Australian outback, have been revealed. Carolina Wilga, 26, disappeared on June 29, and it is believed she became lost in a vast rural area of Western Australia after her van was discovered without her in it. On Friday night, Western Australia Police confirmed Ms Wilga had been located alive 'safe and well' in Karroun Hill Reserve area of the state's Wheatbelt region. It followed a major nationwide search that later became centered on the van - which police believed had "suffered mechanical issues". Inspector Martin Glynn had initially said Ms Wilga was found by a member of the public, who came across her walking on a bush track 'As you can imagine, from the trauma she suffered for the last few days, she's been obviously through a great deal,' Inspector Glynn said on Friday. "She does have some injuries. She's been ravaged by mosquitoes. She's obviously been through an amazing journey." WA Police Detective Acting Inspector Jessica Securo has now provided more details about Ms Wilga's discovery, revealing the 26-year-old had flagged down a motorist in an area 20km away from the closest walking track while limping along the roadside. 'She was very distressed, obviously exhausted, dehydrated, needed some food … but overall just relieved that she had come across someone and was able to get that help,' Inspector Securo told Weekend Today on Saturday. "She actually flagged down a passing motorist, which was extremely lucky. '... we're extremely grateful to that member of the community who helped us." Inspector Glynn had said the German national was taken to Beacon before being flown to Perth to be provided medical attention. Her family had been notified of her discovery. The West Australian has reported five friends of the German backpacker were waiting out Royal Perth Hospital on Friday night, with one friend Miranda saying she was 'excited' to see Ms Wilga again. Ms Wilga's parents, who Miranda had been in contact with, 'couldn't believe' the news their daughter had been located alive. 'We just heard from the news that she was found and alive, which had everyone excited,' Miranda said, according to the publication. 'I was actually in contact with her family every day almost and they're very happy. 'They almost couldn't believe it, but yeah, they were just overwhelmed with happiness.' WA Premier Roger Cook on Friday said he was 'incredibly relieved' to hear the backpacker had been found alive. 'This news is nothing short of remarkable,' Mr Cook said in post on social media. 'To our emergency services and everyone who searched, shared information, and supported the family through this ordeal - thank you.' Prior to her disappearance on June 29, Ms Wilga had been seen at 12.10pm visiting a general store in the small town of Beacon. Five minutes later, the young woman seen wearing ripped blue baggy jeans, a cream long-sleeve jumper and a similar coloured scarf, got back into her van and left. Ms Wilga had been backpacking in Australia for the last two years before her disappearance and had recently been working at mine sites in regional WA.

Miami Chief Meteorologist Warns Viewers Trump's Cuts Could Affect Their Safety

Yahoo

04-06-2025

Climate
Yahoo

Miami Chief Meteorologist Warns Viewers Trump's Cuts Could Affect Their Safety

WTVJ chief meteorologist John Morales is warning viewers that Trump's budget cuts could affect their safety at the start of this year's hurricane season. Morales said that the 'sledgehammer attacks on science' and cuts at the National Weather Service (NWS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) would mean he wouldn't be able to accurately predict hurricanes. Urging the Miami NBC owned station's viewers to call their Senators to stop the cuts, Morales said the cuts could have a "a multigenerational impact on science in this country.' In his blog post on the station website, Morales said the cuts come at a bad time for coastal dwellers, 'Never have we faced the combustible mix of a lack of meteorological data and the less accurate forecasts that follow, with an elevated propensity for the rapidly intensifying hurricanes of the manmade climate change era.' Am I worried? You bet I am! And so are hundreds of other scientists, including all living former U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) directors, who fear a "needless loss of life" as a result of the loss of staff and resources at NWS brought on since January. Central and southern Florida's NWS offices are currently 19 to 39 percent understaffed. While that might be barely enough on a sunny day, long stretches of impending severe weather-like a hurricane-could lead to mistakes by tired skeleton crews can only work so many back-to-back shifts. Across the country, less data is being collected by fewer weather balloon launches as a result of the staff shortages. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) isn't facing such a severe scarcity of employees. But there are critical departments linked to NHC's mission that have been seriously impacted. Namely, NOAA's Hurricane Hunters saw two flight directors and one electronic engineer terminated in late February. Hurricane flights also include the Air Force 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron. But should NOAA be unable to fly as many missions, there is a real risk of hurricane specialists occasionally "flying blind.'Morales started his career at WLTV in Miami, where he served as chief meteorologist from 1991 through 2002. From 2003 through 2008 he served as chief meteorologist for WSCV Telemundo 51. While there, he became the first Latino to substitute as meteorologist on NBC's Weekend Today show, and did so multiple times. In 2009, Morales became chief meteorologist for NBC's Miami station WTVJ.

Sheinelle Jones: A Resilient Voice in Morning Television and Beyond

Time Business News

23-05-2025

Entertainment
Time Business News

Sheinelle Jones: A Resilient Voice in Morning Television and Beyond

Sheinelle Jones has become a familiar and comforting presence for millions of viewers tuning into NBC's 'Today' show. With her warm demeanor, insightful journalism, and genuine empathy, she has carved out a significant niche in the competitive landscape of morning television. Her journey, marked by dedication, resilience, and a profound commitment to impactful storytelling, solidifies her status as a respected journalist and a beloved public figure. However, a recent, deeply personal challenge has underscored her strength and the unwavering support of her colleagues and audience. Born on April 19, 1978, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Sheinelle Marie Jones embarked on her broadcasting career with an early passion for news. Her academic path led her to Northwestern University's prestigious Medill School of Journalism, where she honed her skills and laid the foundation for her future success. After graduating, Jones began her professional journey in local news markets, gaining valuable experience as a reporter and anchor at stations in Springfield, Illinois, and Tulsa, Oklahoma. Her talent and dedication soon brought her back to her hometown, where she became a co-host of 'Good Day Philadelphia,' an Emmy Award-winning morning show for FOX. Her extensive work in local news provided her with a diverse range of experiences, covering everything from breaking news to compelling human-interest stories, all of which prepared her for the national spotlight. In October 2014, Jones joined NBC News, initially as part of 'Weekend Today.' Her engaging personality and natural ability to connect with viewers quickly made her a standout. By January 2019, her role expanded significantly as she became a co-host on the third hour of 'Today,' appearing weekdays alongside familiar faces like Al Roker, Craig Melvin, and Dylan Dreyer. This demanding schedule, which initially involved working six days a week, showcased her incredible work ethic and commitment to her craft. Throughout her tenure at NBC, Jones has distinguished herself through her ability to cover a wide array of topics, from major national news events to deeply personal narratives, always approaching them with grace and professionalism. Sheinelle Jones' impact extends beyond her daily duties on 'Today.' She is known for her insightful interviews, her ability to tackle sensitive subjects with compassion, and her dedication to telling stories that matter. In 2021, she served as the executive producer for a powerful documentary titled 'Stories We Tell: The Fertility Secret,' which bravely explored the often-unseen challenges of fertility issues, particularly among women of color. This project exemplified her commitment to shedding light on important social and health topics, leveraging her platform to advocate for greater understanding and support. Her work is characterized by a genuine curiosity and a desire to inform and empower her audience. Whether she is discussing health trends, educational initiatives, or cultural events, Jones approaches each topic with a thoughtful perspective, making complex information accessible and engaging. Her presence on 'Wild Child,' part of NBC's Saturday morning educational block, further highlights her versatility and her commitment to delivering enriching content to a broad audience, including younger viewers. In late 2024 and early 2025, Sheinelle Jones took a leave of absence from 'Today,' sparking concern among her loyal viewers. In January 2025, she shared an update on social media, revealing that she was dealing with a 'family health matter.' While she kept the details private at the time, her message conveyed profound gratitude for the support from her 'Today' family and her fans. Her colleagues, including Al Roker, Craig Melvin, and Dylan Dreyer, consistently offered updates, expressing their love and prayers for Sheinelle and her family, underscoring the tight-knit bond of the 'Today' show team. Tragically, on Friday, May 23, 2025, it was announced on the 'Today' show that Sheinelle's beloved husband, Uche Ojeh, had passed away at the age of 45 after a courageous battle with an aggressive form of brain cancer, glioblastoma. The news brought immense sadness to the 'Today' family and viewers alike. Sheinelle and Uche, who met at Northwestern University, were married in 2007 and shared three children: sons Kayin and Uche, and daughter Clara. The outpouring of love and support from across the nation reflected the deep affection people hold for Sheinelle and her family during this incredibly difficult time. Her absence from the screen since December 2024 was a direct reflection of her dedication to being by her husband's side and prioritizing her family. Sheinelle Jones' professional journey and personal resilience serve as an inspiration. She embodies the best of broadcast journalism: informed, compassionate, and unwavering in her commitment to truth and connection. As she navigates this profound personal loss, her 'Today' family and millions of viewers stand in solidarity, eagerly awaiting her return to the screen when she is ready. Her story is a powerful reminder that behind the familiar faces on our televisions are real individuals experiencing life's joys and challenges. Sheinelle Jones' grace under pressure, her unwavering professionalism, and her profound empathy have solidified her place as a truly beloved and impactful voice in morning television. TIME BUSINESS NEWS