South Korea reports biggest rise in coronavirus cases since March

14 Sept 05:55 Key points summarised by AI

South Korea recorded its highest daily increase in COVID-19 cases since March, with 397 new infections, marking over a week of triple-digit rises.
The surge is primarily linked to outbreaks from the Sarang Jeil Presbyterian Church in Seoul, an anti-government protest, and other gatherings.
Authorities extended second-tier social distancing rules nationwide, banning in-person church meetings and closing various venues, and are considering tougher Stage 3 measures if the spread doesn't slow.
Health officials declared the country on the 'brink of a nationwide pandemic,' urging citizens to stay home to curb the rapid spread across all regions.

Flooding persists in Bangkok and 22 provinces

Today 16:00 Key points summarised by AI

Persistent flooding continues across Bangkok and 22 Thai provinces, though water levels are gradually receding in many affected areas.
Over 604,000 families, impacting approximately 1.83 million people, are still grappling with the widespread flood conditions.
The national flood death toll has reached 80 since mid-September, with fatalities reported across various provinces.
Major regions like Pathum Thani, Ayutthaya, and Bangkok report significant numbers of affected households, with hundreds of thousands still in trouble.