US public health authorities at state and local levels have been weakened following backlash against COVID-19 restrictions, leaving them less equipped to handle future disease outbreaks. Laws in several states have limited emergency declarations, quarantine powers, and mandates, while funding and staffing cuts further hamper response capabilities.
Typhoon No. 6 made landfall in Wakayama Prefecture and moved south of the Japanese archipelago, causing heavy rain in Tokyo. Level 4 warnings for sediment disasters and heavy rain were issued in Ota, Shinagawa, Toshima, Suginami, Chofu, and Hachijo, leading to evacuation orders for approximately 243,000 households in Shinagawa and other areas. Many schools were closed or moved to online classes.
Typhoon No. 6 led to temporary school closures, including online classes, for 5,378 educational institutions across 23 prefectures on the 3rd. Yokohama City saw over half of its schools close.
Typhoon No. 6 has caused injuries in Okinawa and Kagoshima prefectures due to strong winds, with some municipalities deciding to close schools temporarily on the 3rd.
Declining birth rates in England are causing school closures, with nearly 30% of pupils in closed schools having special educational needs (SEN), compared to 20% nationally. This trend disproportionately impacts SEN students, raising concerns about future provision and support.
