Natural disasters, cryptocurrency, and the day we’ve all been waiting for. (Editor’s note: mention of death)

Happening in the World: An avalanche of mud fell onto the BR-376 highway in Paraná, Brazil, hitting more than 21 vehicles. At least two people died in the avalanche with up to 30 people still missing. The bad weather and remote location have complicated rescue efforts. At least six survivors have been found. Landslides are not an uncommon occurrence in Brazil, with this one thought to be caused by heavy rainfall. (BBC)

Happening in the US: FTX co-founder Sam Bankman made his first public statement since the cryptocurrency platform collapsed. The company went bankrupt after using customer funds to back risky bets. Bankman denies any knowledge of the bets, saying that he didn’t intend to commit fraud. The platform is currently under the control of new management, who will attempt to guide the company through bankruptcy. Customers of the platform are left uncertain, with their cryptocurrency still frozen on the exchange. (WSJ)

Happening in NYC: Major Eric Adams is increasing efforts to address homelessness in a new initiative that directs police and emergency responders to hospitalize homeless people who are assessed to be mentally ill. The assessment would be made by police officers themselves, along with the option to call in a mental health professional. Along with legal challenges, many homeless and civil liberty advocates have voiced concern over the policy, especially in relation to the ethics of involuntary commitment and the lack of available space in mental health facilities. (The Gothamist)

Happening in Our Community: The tree lighting ceremony will be held today in Low Plaza from 5 to 7:30 pm. The first 800 students to arrive will receive merch from the General Studies Student Council, Columbia College Student Council, Engineering Student Council, and Barnard Student Government Association. After a few speeches from administrators and performances from several acapella groups, the countdown will begin.

Trees via Wikimedia Commons