#emergency flood restoration Melbourne

[floodrestorationmelbournesblog]

How do Emergency Flood Restoration Melbourne Services Save Your Property

Water damages can happen at any time and are a major cause of anxiety. Here, we explore how emergency flood restoration Melbourne services can help in the event of your property being flooded. Read now.

[7starfloodrestoration]

Professional flooded carpet drying in Melbourne can help you restore your carpets. In order to avoid damage and maintain a healthy home environment, 7 Star Westside Services guarantees prompt, effective, and dependable carpet repair.

[arianamortenson]

What to Do After a Minor Flooding or Water Damage?

Whether you are outside your home or staying in during the flood, the water pressure during the flood can damage a lot of your property, not to mention putting your family’s life at risk. If you are staying home during the flood, make sure that you and your family are safe first. Go to a room that can withstand the water pressure and don’t come out till there’s no danger. If you are outside, be…

[westsidefloodservices]

Flood damage restoration service in Melbourne

Flood damage can wreak havoc on carpets, leading to mold growth and foul odors. In Melbourne, professional carpet drying services are available to extract excess water, sanitize and dry carpets using specialized equipment, ensuring a quick and effective restoration process.

[flooddamagerestoration1]

Emergency Response In Melbourne- Prompt And Professional Assistance

Disasters can strike at any time, putting populations in danger. Because of this, emergency response services have the potential to save lives. They provide essential support when it's most needed. This is especially true in Melbourne, where emergency response in Melbourne can make the difference between life and death. At Melbourne Flood Master, we take great pride in offering first-rate emergency services! In times of disaster, such as floods or medical emergencies, you can depend on us since we are the go-to emergency response team in Melbourne. Our team of experts is accessible 24/7 to get your home or place of business back to normal as quickly as possible.

Reliable and Prompt Assistance Experts With Commitment And Ability Fast and Efficient Resolutions

How Can a Water Damage Emergency Be Started?

A variety of underlying problems can result in water damage crises, which need to be addressed right away to stop additional degradation. A few of the following are typical explanations:

Spills and accidents in the kitchen or bathroom—clogs in the sewage and plumbing systems

Roof leaks in addition to other structural issues

clogged toilets and sinks Natural catastrophes such as hurricanes, flash floods, and protracted rainstorms

Overflowing and flooding rivers and streams Pollution from sewage and backups Growth of mold on walls and floors as a result of excessive moisture

Addressing these problems as soon as possible is essential to avoiding more harm and challenges.

Strategies for Immediate Flood Damage Minimization To reduce damage and guarantee a successful recovery, you must act quickly if your property sustains flood damage. Remember to take these crucial actions: 1. Contact Emergency Services: Give our dedicated helpline a call as soon as you can, and let them know how to reach you, the amount of water present, and any probable guilty parties. 2. Put Safety First To reduce the chance of an electrical fire, keep a safe distance from electrical equipment and turn off any devices near electrical equipment.

3. Document the Damage: Use photos or videos to document any damaged goods or flooded regions for insurance and repair purposes. 4. Stop Additional Damage: If at all possible, redirect or stop the water flow using sandbags, buckets, or towels, but only if doing so is safe. 5. Professional Assistance Is On the Way: To prevent additional damage to your property, our staff of highly skilled experts will evaluate the situation, put successful flood control measures in place, and start the restoration process. By adhering to these thorough and timely protocols, emergency flooding incidents will be handled in a safer and more efficient way.

Why pick us?

 We've got you covered at Melbourne Flood Master! For emergency answers to water damage in Melbourne, we are the team that people turn to. We can help whether it's a complete catastrophe or a chance accident. Our staff is incredibly knowledgable, really helpful, and quite professional. To relieve your worry, we will take care of all your cleaning and water removal requirements. You can relax with us—we've got this! Need emergency response in Melbourne? Give us a call! Our goal is to deliver excellent services, and we're constantly prepared to act.

Obtain a price quote right away.

[oncallemergencyplumbers]

Reliable Emergency Plumbers in Melbourne – Fast & Professional Service

Plumbing emergencies can strike at any time, causing stress and potential damage to your property. Whether it's a burst pipe, blocked drain, or gas leak, you need a trusted emergency plumber in Melbourne to resolve the issue quickly and efficiently.

Why Choose a 24/7 Emergency Plumber?

Plumbing problems don’t wait for business hours, and neither should you. Hiring a professional emergency plumber ensures:

Immediate response, available 24/7 to handle urgent plumbing issues.

Preventing further damage by providing quick repairs that minimize water damage and costly repairs.

Expert diagnosis and solutions to fix problems efficiently.

Compliance with Australian plumbing standards to ensure safety and quality.

Common Plumbing Emergencies We Handle

At On Call Emergency Plumbers, we specialize in resolving all types of urgent plumbing issues, including:

Burst pipes requiring fast repairs to prevent flooding and water damage.

Blocked drains that need advanced techniques to clear stubborn blockages.

Gas leaks that require immediate detection and safe repairs.

Hot water system failures that need quick solutions to restore hot water supply.

Leaking taps and toilets that need fixing to save water and reduce bills.

Sewer backups requiring professional solutions for sewage overflows.

Signs You Need an Emergency Plumber in Melbourne

Not sure if your plumbing issue is an emergency? Here are some common warning signs:

Sudden drop in water pressure.

Water pooling around your home.

Strange noises coming from pipes.

Foul odors from drains.

Overflowing toilets or backed-up sewage.

If you notice any of these signs, do not wait. Contact On Call Emergency Plumbers immediately.

How to Book Emergency Plumbing Services?

Getting help is quick and easy:

Call us anytime. We are available 24/7 for urgent plumbing repairs.

Our team is dispatched immediately with the necessary tools.

We assess the issue and provide a transparent quote.

Repairs are carried out efficiently and professionally.

Why Trust On Call Emergency Plumbers?

24/7 availability, so we are always ready to assist.

Licensed and insured professionals with years of experience.

Affordable pricing with transparent quotes and no hidden fees.

Strong customer satisfaction with a reputation for reliable service.

Contact Us Now for Fast Emergency Plumbing Services

Plumbing emergencies cannot wait. Get in touch with On Call Emergency Plumbers now and let our experts restore your plumbing system as quickly as possible.

[redcarpetfloodrestoration]

Red Carpet Treatment offers expert flood damage restoration service in Melbourne. Our professional team promptly checks and fixes water damage using modern machinery, guaranteeing that your property is returned to its pre-damage state. We work effectively to stop additional harm and offer emergency reaction 24/7.

[thetotalrestoration]

Total Restoration

Total Restoration: Melbourne, Florida’s Trusted Partner in Water Damage Recovery When water damage strikes, Total Restoration is the name Melbourne, Florida residents can rely on. With a team of certified specialists and cutting-edge technology, we respond swiftly to emergencies, ensuring your property is restored to its pre-damage condition with precision and care. From minor water issues to major flood recovery, our comprehensive services are designed to ease your stress and provide peace of mind during challenging times.

At Total Restoration, we are more than just a service provider; we are a committed partner in your journey to recovery. With unparalleled expertise and a customer-first approach, we exceed expectations, delivering seamless restoration solutions that help you rebuild and move forward with confidence.

Contact us: Total Restoration 2725 Center Place #8, Melbourne, FL 32940 321-341-3553 https://thetotalrestorationco.com/melbourne-fl/ Find us on Google Maps: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=16385803855150580805

[floodrestorationmelbourneaus]

Flood Restoration Melbourne stands as a prominent emergency water damage service provider, offering round-the-clock assistance to property owners. Our skilled technicians excel at rapid water removal, comprehensive drying, and complete restoration services. We utilize thermal imaging and moisture mapping to detect hidden water damage, preventing long-term structural issues.

Website: https://floodrestorationmelbourne.com.au/

Address: 61 Bromby St, South Yarra VIC 3004, Australia.

Phone: 61440133899.

Business Email: infor@floodrestorationmelbourne.com.au

Operating Hours: 24H

[melbournecleaning1]

Emergency Flood Damage Restoration Service in Melbourne

When facing the aftermath of flooding, Melbourne Cheap Cleaning is your go-to for flood damage restoration in Melbourne. Our certified team specialises in emergency water damage carpet drying, ensuring your carpets are restored quickly. With advanced technology and years of experience, we remove excess moisture, preventing mould and bacteria growth. For fast and professional flood damage restoration in Melbourne, trust our experts to get your home back in shape. For more details, visit: https://melbournecheapcleaning.com.au/services/water-damage-carpet-drying-cleaning-melbourne/

[24hrmelbplumb]

Reliable Plumbing Services in Melbourne for Every Need

For both home and business owners in Melbourne, reliable plumbing is essential for comfort, safety, and functionality. Whether it’s a leaky tap, blocked drain, or major repair, having a trusted plumbing service can prevent minor issues from becoming expensive problems. With a wide range of services available, Melbourne residents can rest assured knowing there are qualified professionals to handle every plumbing need.

Comprehensive Plumbing Services for Homes and Businesses

Professional plumbers in Melbourne offer a complete range of services to address every aspect of plumbing. Here’s an overview of the most common services that home and business owners can rely on:

General Repairs and Maintenance

Routine maintenance and timely repairs are the keys to extending the life of plumbing systems and avoiding emergencies. Melbourne’s plumbing professionals provide quick repairs for leaking faucets, running toilets, and faulty pipes. Regular maintenance checks are also offered, helping detect issues early, saving costs in the long run, and ensuring optimal water flow.

Blocked Drains and Sewers

Blocked drains are a common issue, particularly in older buildings and high-use areas. Plumbing services in Melbourne use advanced techniques, such as hydrojetting and CCTV drain inspections, to identify and resolve blockages. These techniques are non-invasive, ensuring minimal disruption to the property while effectively removing clogs, tree roots, and other obstructions.

Emergency Plumbing Solutions

Plumbing emergencies can occur anytime and require immediate attention. From burst pipes and flooding to gas leaks, emergency plumbing services provide 24/7 availability to tackle urgent issues promptly. Quick response times help minimise water damage, maintain safety, and restore essential services. Emergency plumbers are equipped with the latest tools and technology to handle these critical situations swiftly.

Hot Water System Installation and Repair

A reliable hot water system is essential in Melbourne, where chilly winters demand a steady supply of hot water. Plumbing services offer installation, repairs, and replacements for all types of water heaters, including gas, electric, and solar-powered units. Professionals assess household or commercial water needs to recommend the best system, ensuring energy efficiency and reliable hot water access.

Gas Plumbing Services

Gas plumbing is a specialised service that ensures the safe installation, repair, and maintenance of gas appliances and fittings. Certified plumbers handle gas leak detection, appliance installation, and regular inspections to maintain safety and efficiency. By relying on experts, Melbourne property owners ensure compliance with safety regulations and prevent potential hazards.

Water Filtration and Conservation Solutions

With a growing focus on environmental responsibility, plumbing services in Melbourne also provide water filtration systems and eco-friendly solutions. These systems enhance water quality for drinking and household use, while water-saving fixtures help conserve resources and reduce utility bills. Water filtration installations include tap filters, under-sink systems, and whole-house filtration units for improved water quality and a more sustainable approach.

How to Choose the Right Plumbing Service in Melbourne

Finding the right plumbing service provider is crucial. Here are a few tips to ensure you’re getting the best service:

Look for Licences and Certifications: Ensure the plumbing service provider is licenced and certified, indicating they meet Melbourne’s professional standards.

Check for Reviews and Recommendations: Customer reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations can give valuable insights into the quality of service.

Evaluate pricing and transparency. Transparent pricing is essential. Ask for quotes upfront to avoid hidden fees and unexpected costs.

Emergency Services: Choose a provider that offers emergency services if you require urgent assistance.

Benefits of Choosing Reliable Plumbing Services in Melbourne

Hiring reputable plumbers provides several benefits, including:

Peace of Mind: Qualified professionals handle your plumbing needs with expertise and experience.

Long-Term Savings: Preventative maintenance and timely repairs reduce the risk of costly damage.

Safety and Compliance: Certified plumbers adhere to Melbourne’s safety codes, minimising the risk of gas leaks, water contamination, and structural damage.

Conclusion

In Melbourne, reliable plumbing services are crucial for maintaining a safe and functional environment in both homes and businesses. From general repairs and maintenance to emergency responses and water conservation solutions, local plumbing professionals provide a comprehensive range of services. By choosing experienced, certified plumbers, Melbourne residents can ensure their plumbing systems are efficient, compliant, and built to last.

Source From : Reliable Plumbing Services in Melbourne for Every Need

[7starfloodrestoration]

Water Damage Restoration in East Melbourne

If you need help with water damage restoration in East Melbourne, 7 Star Westside Services can help. Our knowledgeable crew specializes in prompt, reliable water damage restoration to minimize the effects of flooding, leaks, or storm damage to your property.

[joplumbing]

Why Choose Same Day Plumber Services?

When plumbing problems arise, time is critical. Delaying repairs can lead to more significant issues, costly damage, and unnecessary stress. Here are the key reasons why you should opt for a same-day plumber:

Quick Response: Plumbing emergencies can’t wait. Same-day plumber services provide an immediate response to your problem, preventing further damage to your property.

Minimizing Damage: Issues like water leaks, blocked drains, or malfunctioning hot water systems can cause significant damage if not fixed right away. A same-day plumber ensures that the issue is resolved quickly, reducing the risk of extensive damage.

Convenience: Same-day plumber services allow you to resolve plumbing problems without having to wait for days or disrupt your schedule.

Peace of Mind: Knowing that help is on the way within hours gives you peace of mind and reduces the stress that comes with plumbing emergencies. Common Plumbing Emergencies That Require a same-day plumber

Several plumbing issues require immediate attention to prevent more severe damage. Some of the most common emergencies that J.O. Plumbing’s same-day plumber services can address include:

Burst Pipes: A burst pipe can cause significant water damage to your property if not repaired immediately. A same-day plumber will fix the pipe and stop the water flow before it causes further destruction.

Blocked Drains: Severe blockages can lead to flooding and water damage in your home. A same-day plumber can quickly clear the blockage and restore proper drainage.

Leaking Taps or Pipes: Persistent leaks not only waste water but can also damage your walls, floors, and ceilings. Same-day services ensure leaks are fixed promptly to prevent further problems. Faulty Hot Water Systems: If your hot water system breaks down, it can disrupt your daily routine. A same-day plumber can repair or replace your water heater to restore hot water in no time.

Overflowing Toilets: An overflowing toilet is not only messy but can also pose health risks. Immediate assistance from a same-day plumber can stop the overflow and fix the underlying issue. J.O. Plumbing’s Same Day Plumber Services

At J.O. Plumbing, we understand the urgency of plumbing emergencies, and we’re committed to providing fast and efficient solutions. Our same-day plumber services include:

Fast Response Time: We offer quick and reliable same-day services across Melbourne. When you call J.O. Plumbing, our team will arrive at your location as soon as possible to assess the situation and begin repairs. Expert Diagnosis and Repairs: Our experienced plumbers use the latest tools and technology to diagnose the problem accurately and provide the best solution. Whether it’s a blocked drain, a leaking pipe, or a faulty water heater, we’ve got you covered.

Comprehensive Plumbing Services: Our same-day plumber services cover a wide range of plumbing issues, including leak repairs, drain cleaning, hot water system repairs, and more. Preventive Advice: Once the immediate problem is resolved, our plumbers will provide valuable advice on maintaining your plumbing system to prevent future emergencies. Emergency Services Available 24/7: Plumbing issues don’t always happen during business hours. That’s why J.O. Plumbing offers 24/7 emergency services to ensure you can get help whenever you need it.

Why Choose J.O. Plumbing for Same-Day Plumber Services?

J.O. Plumbing is a trusted name in Melbourne for providing high-quality same-day plumber services. Here’s why we are the best choice for your emergency plumbing needs:

Experienced and Licensed Plumbers: Our team consists of fully licensed and highly experienced plumbers who can handle all types of plumbing emergencies with precision and professionalism. Advanced Equipment: We use the latest tools and technology to diagnose and repair plumbing problems quickly and efficiently, ensuring that the job is done right the first time.

Transparent Pricing: We believe in providing honest and upfront pricing for our same-day services. You’ll receive a clear quote before we start the work, so there are no hidden surprises.

Customer Satisfaction: At J.O. Plumbing, customer satisfaction is our top priority. We strive to exceed your expectations by delivering prompt, reliable, and high-quality plumbing services. Comprehensive Services: In addition to emergency plumbing, we offer a full range of services, including regular maintenance, installations, and upgrades. This means we can handle all your plumbing needs, no matter how big or small.

Conclusion

When plumbing problems strike, you need a solution fast. J.O. Plumbing’s same-day plumber services ensure that your plumbing issues are addressed promptly, minimizing damage and restoring your peace of mind. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a blocked drain, or a leaking tap, our experienced team is ready to help with reliable and efficient service. Don’t let plumbing emergencies disrupt your life — contact J.O. Plumbing today for fast, professional, and affordable same-day plumber services. Visit J.O. Plumbing for more information or to book your same-day plumber.

Telephone No. +61 422 653 347

[a4restoration]

Emergency Water & Mould Removal Services in Melbourne

Living in Melbourne, Australia means your house is at risk of flood. Yes, you never know when the flood water will invade your house and sink everything, causing huge damage to your property, house, and household. You might not believe but the fact is many areas in Melbourne fall in a zone of highly prone to flooding area all through the year. Melbourne CBD, Kensington, North Melbourne, and Southbank are just to name a few. Hence, it makes sense to know about the emergency water and Mould Removal Services in Melbourne. When a natural disaster like flooding hits your house, you will find yourself better prepared with the best water damage restoration company on your side.

Water Extraction in Melbourne Made Simple with A4 Restoration

A4 Restoration specialises in water extraction and removal in Melbourne. Understanding the seriousness and level of urgency, we quickly and affordably remove water and restore damage so that you can get back to enjoying your home like before.

The best part is our prices are highly affordable. Whether you need to extract flood water from your home or office or need mould removal assistance, you always can trust our unparalleled expertise and years of experience. A4 Water Extraction & Restoration company is backed by our 100% customer satisfaction record in Melbourne, Australia. Feel free to contact us for fast, reliable, and affordable water damage restoration solutions.

Avail the Fastest Way to Remove Mould from Your Home & Office Wall

If your home and office walls are infested with mould then one thing is for sure. Whenever your eyes fall on it, you must feel disgusted and turn away. However, ignoring the damages caused by moulding on a wall will further deteriorate the condition. And if it is left untreated, it might cost you even more pain and money over time. So, it’s best to get urgent Mould Remediationin Melbourne from a prominent and trusted company such as https://a4restoration.com.au. We fix all types of moulds resulting from:

Contaminated heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system.

Seepage or leakage of sewage water into the house.

Bad weather conditions or flood waterlogging.

Flood due to overflowing drain.

Instant Carpet Drying Services for All Types & Sizes in Melbourne

Carpets have always been an essential part of houses. A well-designed carpet can really do wonders to enhance the aesthetic look of a house. Plus, it offers so many advantages such as warmth and comfort to the feet, safety against slips and falls, reduced noise, and to some extent it cleans the air too. But all these benefits of a carpet are possible only if it is dry.

Sadly, a wet carpet is of no use. The fact is a carpet with water stored in it not only can damage your other households but also can help bacteria to grow, inviting a wide range of diseases. Hence, it is important to know and remember the name of the best Emergency Carpet Drying in Melbourne – A4 Restoration. 

Our instant carpet drying process includes using the best hot water extraction machine & rinsing the carpet with a high-quality detergent made for carpet and chemical treatment. This process helps to loosen even the stubborn messes, and dust, and kills bacteria, making your carpet will feel just like new once again.

Why Choose A4 Restoration for Water Removal and Flood Restoration in Melbourne?

At A4 Restoration, we know how annoying can be the issue of unwanted water accumulation at home and office. With furniture, home appliances, luggage, and vehicles sunk into the water, homeowners and family members can’t feel peace until the water is retracted and damage is restored as early as possible.

Millions of litres of water extracted by our team from residential and commercial buildings in Melbourne since the inception of the company.

Expertise in finding and fixing hidden water leakages, ensuring the protection of your house from all kinds of water damage.

Our process of water removal and drying up is not only fast and effective but it is affordable also. 

All the methods and processes we use to retract and remove the water are effective enough to clean the deepest debris.

We use only safer and cost-effective methods to remove water from homes and offices.  

A4 Restoration is a certified and licensed company in Melbourne to handle and tackle water-logging problems in residential and commercial areas. 

All safety and precautionary steps are taken care of during fixing water damage.

Contact us

As you have come all the way down, reading this article, now don’t wait anymore. Give us a call or schedule an appointment now to quickly address water damage and get your life back on track.

[newstfionline]

Saturday, June 15, 2024

These cities are now so expensive they’re considered ‘impossibly unaffordable’ (CNN) Anyone with half an eye on the housing market over the last two decades will know that in many countries, not least the United States, it’s become much more difficult to buy a home. But a new report sums up the feeling of many potential home buyers by creating a category that labels some major cities as “impossibly unaffordable.” US cities on the West Coast and Hawaii occupied five of the top 10 most unaffordable places, according to the annual Demographic International Housing Affordability report, which has been tracking house prices for 20 years. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the most expensive US cities to buy home are in California, where San Jose, Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego have all made the top 10. The Hawaiian capital of Honolulu also rates a mention in sixth place of 94 major markets surveyed in eight countries. Australia is the only other country besides the US to dominate the “impossibly unaffordable” list, led by Sydney and the southern cities of Melbourne in Victoria and Adelaide in South Australia.

South Florida Deluge (1440) A storm system drenched South Florida for a third straight day Thursday, flooding neighborhoods, disrupting flights, and forcing road closures. Seven million people, including those in Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Naples, remain under flood watches through tonight. The National Weather Service issued a rare high risk outlook for excessive rainfall for parts of South Florida, which represents the top level of a four-category scale and occurs on 4% of days each year on average. Such an extreme weather event in the US accounts for more than 80% of flood-related damage and over one-third of flood-related deaths. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) declared a state of emergency for five counties as some areas saw up to 25 inches of rainfall since Tuesday. Roughly an entire average month’s rainfall for June fell on Fort Lauderdale in 24 hours alone Wednesday.

Puerto Rico restores power after a massive blackout as lawmakers call for a state of emergency (AP) A power company in Puerto Rico announced Thursday that it has restored electricity to most areas affected by a massive outage that hit the U.S. territory the previous day. The outage left over 340,000 customers in the capital, San Juan, and neighboring municipalities without power during a heat wave. On Thursday morning, Luma Energy said in a statement that it had restored power to most of its customers in the metropolitan and northeastern regions of the island. Several lawmakers in Puerto Rico are urging the governor to declare a state of emergency to the federal government. Persistent outages have interrupted water service and imperiled the lives of elderly and ill residents who rely on electrical equipment for respirators and to refrigerate insulin, for example.

Ukraine Stalled Russia Near the Border. This Town Has Paid the Price. (NYT) A month into Russia’s push across the border in northern Ukraine, Western weapons and Ukrainian reinforcements have largely stalled the attack. But they came too late to save one town, Vovchansk, where the city hall, a cultural center, countless apartment blocks and several riverside hotels are all now in ruins. A small town divided by the Vovcha River, Vovchansk was once a regional tourist attraction—a pleasant base from which to explore the chalk hills nearby. But it is also three miles from the Russian border, and when Russia began a cross-border offensive on May 10, it became Ukrainian forces’ stand-your-ground position. The front line still runs through Vovchansk, about 70 percent of which remains under Ukrainian control. And a month of fierce fighting and relentless bombing by Russia has decimated the town, forcing almost everyone left there to flee. As bombs and missiles rained down on Kharkiv and the region, an average of 20 Russian glide bombs—large guided strikes from the air—have been falling on Vovchansk daily. “There is no Vovchansk anymore,” one resident said.

Russia financial system shaken after U.S. imposes new sanctions (Washington Post) A tough new raft of U.S. sanctions sent jitters rippling through the Russian financial system Thursday and forced Moscow’s main financial trading platform to halt dollar and euro transactions. The sharp escalation in sanctions by the Treasury Department prompted former Russian president and prime minister Dmitry Medvedev, now a senior security official, to call on the population to “inflict maximum harm” on Western societies and infrastructure in retaliation. Meanwhile, several leading Russian banks and brokerages blocked access Thursday to corporate hard-currency accounts. The sweeping new sanctions—announced by the Treasury Department on Wednesday—singled out the Moscow Exchange, Russia’s main financial marketplace, for helping Russians “profit from the Kremlin’s war machine.” The Treasury also broadened “secondary sanctions,” which seek to make foreign banks unwilling to process Russian bank payments. Secondary sanctions, which target entities doing business with Russian companies or individuals under sanction, are now applicable not just to entities working with Russia’s defense industry but also to those working with any sanctioned Russian business or individual, including the country’s biggest banks.

In China’s Backyard, America Has Become a Humbler Superpower (NYT) Far from Ukraine and Gaza, as the Group of 7 wealthy democracies gathers in Italy to discuss a range of old, entrenched challenges, the nature of American power is being transformed across the region that Washington sees as crucial for the century to come: the Asia-Pacific. Here, America no longer presents itself as the confident guarantor of security, a trust-us-we’ve-got-this superpower. The terrain is too vast, China’s rise too great a threat. So the United States has been offering to be something else—an eager teammate for military modernization and tech development. For the first time, the United States is building nuclear-propelled submarines with Australia; involving South Korea in nuclear weapons planning; producing fighter jet engines with India; sharing maritime surveillance duties with small Pacific islands; and working with Japan on adding an offensive strike capability. These collaborations highlight how the region sees China. Many countries fear Beijing’s growing military strength and belligerence—its threats against the democratic island of Taiwan, its claim to most of the South China Sea and its land grab at the border with India. They are also less sure about China as an economic partner, with the slowing pace of its post-Covid economy and tilt away from pro-growth, pro-entrepreneur policies under Xi Jinping.

Dan’s the man: Some Chinese women are looking to ChatGPT for love (BBC) Dan has been described as the “perfect man” who has “no flaws”. He is successful, kind, provides emotional support, always knows just what to say and is available 24/7. The only catch? He’s not real. Dan—which stands for Do Anything Now—is a “jailbreak” version of ChatGPT. This means it can bypass some of the basic safeguards put in place by its maker, OpenAI, such as not using sexually explicit language. And Dan is becoming popular with some Chinese women who say they are disappointed with their real world experiences of dating. Many Chinese women have been intrigued by Dan. As of 10 June, the hashtag “Dan mode” has been viewed more than 40 million times on Xiaohongshu alone. Minrui Xie, 24, says she spends at least two hours every day chatting with Dan. As well as “dating”, they have started co-writing a love story with themselves as the lead characters. Minrui says she was drawn to the emotional support provided by the AI, something that she says she has struggled to find in her romantic relationships.

Shark watch via drone (Washington Post) It was the height of the Australian summer, and 21-year-old Nathaniel Woodcock was spending another day scanning the emerald waters from above. He spotted something headed toward the swimmers and surfers: A seven-foot shadow. A great white shark. Woodcock radioed lifeguards, then activated the warning system. “Attention, beach users,” the drone blared. “There is a shark in your area. Please exit the water.” There were 10 fatal shark attacks globally last year, and four of them were in Australia. Woodcock is one of hundreds of drone pilots enlisted as part of Australia’s coastal drone-surveillance operation, the world’s largest. That program and new installations of nonlethal traps that alert authorities when a shark takes their bait have turned Australia into a laboratory for ways to prevent shark attacks.

Why a Gaza Cease-Fire Is So Elusive (NYT) Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel called Hamas’s response to the latest peace proposal for Gaza “negative.” Hamas insisted it was dealing with it “positively.” Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, speaking in Qatar, said Hamas had demanded changes, some of which were “workable” and some not. A Hamas official told an Arabic television channel that the group had not raised any new ideas, and that Mr. Blinken saw things through an Israeli lens and “speaks Hebrew.” Asked at the Group of 7 summit meeting in Italy if he still thought a deal could be reached, President Biden said, “I haven’t lost hope, but it’s going to be tough.” At the crux of the disagreement over the three-phased deal, according to officials and experts, is Hamas’s goal of essentially securing a permanent cease-fire from the outset and a withdrawal of all Israeli troops from Gaza before handing over most of the hostages. Israel says it is willing to negotiate a permanent cessation of the war, now in its ninth month—but only after dismantling Hamas’s military and governing capabilities. That clashes with Hamas’s goals of surviving the war and retaining control of the coastal enclave.

Even when Africans want to visit Europe legally, rejection rates are high. Algeria is one example (AP) France has twice rejected visa applications from Nabil Tabarout, a 29-year-old web developer from Algeria who hopes this year to visit his sister there. He’s among the many people navigating the often arduous visa process throughout Africa, which faces higher visa rejection rates than anywhere else in the world when it comes to visiting Europe’s Schengen Area. Appointments are often difficult to secure. Applicants often must prove a minimum bank balance, substantiate the purpose of their visit and prove they plan to return home. Though much of Europe’s debate about migration centers on people who arrive without authorization, many more people choose to come by legal means. It’s painful, then, to discover that following the rules often fails. Nowhere are applicants more rejected than in Algeria, where more than 392,000 applicants were rejected in 2022. The 45.8% rejection rate is followed by a 45.2% rejection rate in Guinea-Bissau and 45.1% in Nigeria.

Record 120 million people forcibly displaced worldwide, UN says (AFP) The United Nations’ refugee agency UNHCR said forced displacement globally had once again smashed records, with conflicts in places like Gaza, Sudan and Myanmar forcing even more people to flee their homes. The global displaced population is now equivalent to that of Japan, it pointed out in a statement. “Conflict remains a very, very big driver of mass displacement,” UN refugee chief Filippo Grandi told reporters. At the end of last year, 117.3 million people were displaced, UNHCR said in a report. And by the end of April, the number had swelled further, with an estimated 120 million people around the world living in displacement. Grandi told AFP he had been shocked at the high displacement figure when he took the job eight years ago. Since then it has “more than doubled”, he said, describing this as “a terrible indictment on the state of the world”.