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WASHINGTON (AP) — A state of emergency is in effect today in several states and Washington, D.C. as a weekend blizzard menaces the Eastern United States. Pennsylvania is the latest to declare an emergency. Two feet or more of snow could fall in some areas. The nation's capital and surrounding area began hunkering down early, with public transportation suspended hours before any snow fell.
UNDATED (AP) — The Little Rock, Arkansas area has already gotten six inches of snow from the major storm expected to menace the East later today. The state's largest utility, Entergy Arkansas, says about 12,500 homes and businesses are without power. Forecasters say snow and sleet accumulations could reach 4 to 6 inches in West Tennessee. In Memphis, where blizzard conditions are possible, salt trucks and plows are ready to clear roads of snow and ice. Three warming centers are open.
TOKYO (AP) — The top U.N. envoy on North Korea, who's requests to enter have been repeatedly denied, says harsh human rights conditions in the country have barely changed and its leader, Kim Jong Un should be held criminally responsible. Marzuki Darusman says a global effort to improve human rights in North Korea must continue. North Korea today announced the arrest of an American student for "hostile acts."
TUNIS, Tunisia (AP) — Unrest building since Sunday has triggered a nationwide curfew in Tunisia. Officials say the spreading unrest is a danger to public safety. In a statement, the Interior Ministry said the curfew would last from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. The unrest was triggered by the death of a young jobseeker.
VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis is warning that carelessly chosen words can be dangerous. In his annual message to mark the church's world day of social communications, Francis on Friday urged politicians and public opinion-makers in particular to be inspired by mercy. He says they shouldn't exploit others or situations to fan the flames of "mistrust, fear and hatred" with their words. His appeal seemed in part aimed at the anti-immigrant rhetoric in Europe and the U.S.
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