Tropical Storm Debby in Florida is expected to strengthen, making landfall in the Big Bend region and bringing hazardous flooding, strong winds, and power loss. Rapid intensification is expected, with the hurricane center warning of “significant strengthening before landfall.” The NOAA predicts flooding, which is the deadliest aspect of tropical systems caused by rainfall. (CNN)
Three Guantanamo Bay detainees accused of involvement in the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon won’t avoid the death penalty. Secretary of Defense revoked the plea deal that aimed to spare them, including alleged mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed. The decision was met with criticism from both Republicans and Democrats. (UPI)
Belgium has withdrawn its team from the mixed relay triathlon at the Paris Olympics after one of its competitors, Claire Michel, fell ill. The illness comes after concerns about the water quality in the Seine River where the swimming portion of the competition takes place. However, water tests indicate that quality has improved and is within acceptable limits. The mixed relay triathlon will proceed. (AP)
Noah Lyles narrowly won the Olympic 100 meters by .005 seconds in one of the closest sprints in history. After a brief delay, Lyles discovered that he had beaten Kishane Thompson of Jamaica. The top seven finishers were separated by just .09 seconds. This was the closest 1-2 finish in the 100 meter event since the introduction of electronic timing. (AP)
The Park Fire in California has become the state’s fourth largest wildfire, burning over 401,279 acres and destroying hundreds of structures. Started by arson, it is 30% contained, with 16 active wildfires statewide, and wildfire activity this year is significantly higher than previous years. (CBS News)
