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Doomsday Clock Nears Midnight, Weeks-Long Outages, and $1,000 Car Payments — Today's Top Stories

Doomsday Clock Nears Midnight, Weeks-Long Outages, and $1,000 Car Payments — Today's Top Stories
Downed power lines in Oxford, Mississippi. - Bruce Newman/The Clarion-Ledger/USA Today Network/Imagn Images

The Doomsday Clock was moved to its closest point to midnight on record, highlighting rising global risks. A deadly winter storm has left more than 30 dead and threatens weeks-long power outages in parts of the U.S. South, while models suggest a possible bomb cyclone off the East Coast. Boeing posted a rare profit after years of losses, Americans are facing record-high car payments that can top $1,000, and a landslide in Italy forced over 1,500 people to evacuate.

Welcome to tonight’s roundup. Here are the most important stories you may have missed.

Doomsday Clock Reset — Scientists who track global existential risk have moved the Doomsday Clock closer to midnight than ever before, a symbolic warning about rising threats that could imperil humanity. Experts say the change reflects growing concerns about nuclear risk, climate change, and other global instabilities.

Historic Winter Storm — The death toll from a powerful winter storm has risen to more than 30. Officials warned that parts of the U.S. South could remain without electricity for 'weeks, not days.' Meteorologists are also watching forecast models that indicate a potential bomb cyclone off the East Coast this weekend; communities are preparing for heavy winds, coastal impacts, and rapid drops in temperature.

Boeing Returns To Profit — After nearly seven years of deep losses, Boeing reported a rare profit, a sign that some of the company’s financial strains may be easing. Analysts say the result could mark a turning point, though challenges remain for the aerospace giant.

Doomsday Clock Nears Midnight, Weeks-Long Outages, and $1,000 Car Payments — Today's Top Stories
Pietro D'Aprano/Getty Images

Winter Well‑Being — Shorter, colder days can increase isolation and harm mental health. A newly released book outlines practical habits and strategies to stay socially connected and maintain a fulfilling life during darker months.

Soaring Car Costs — Record-high vehicle prices combined with elevated interest rates are pushing many monthly car payments above $1,000. The strain has led some buyers to rely on credit cards or other forms of borrowing, increasing household debt burdens.

Human Stories — Amanda Meyer Barkley left Louisiana for what she intended to be a brief trip to Prague eight years ago and decided to stay. In adapting to life abroad she learned to dial back what she calls an 'American smile' and embraced local customs.

Italy Landslide — A violent storm triggered a major landslide in an Italian town, leaving houses teetering on a cliff and forcing the evacuation of more than 1,500 residents. Authorities continue assessing structural damage and risks to the community.

Doomsday Clock Nears Midnight, Weeks-Long Outages, and $1,000 Car Payments — Today's Top Stories
Luca Martini/SOPA Images/Shutterstock

Law Enforcement Developments — Sources say Alex Pretti suffered a broken rib during a confrontation with federal agents about a week before his death. Separately, a shooting in Arizona involving a Border Patrol agent left one person in critical condition; investigations are ongoing.

Economic Sentiment — Consumer confidence plunged to its lowest level since 2014, reflecting increasing worries about jobs, inflation, and household finances.

Culture & Fashion — Milan Men’s Fashion Week included Winter Olympics–inspired looks and a runway appearance by actor Hudson Williams of 'Heated Rivalry.'

Other Reads — Notable features circulating today examine geopolitical trade-offs, the myths surrounding White Christian nationalism, and witness accounts plus video documenting violence during Iran’s recent internet blackout.

Edited and produced for this edition: Kimberly Richardson and Jordan D. Brown. For more news and newsletters, create an account at CNN.com.

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