ABC News - ABC World News Tonight with David Muir Full Broadcast - Dec. 31, 2024
The video discusses the heightened security measures in New York City for New Year's Eve, with over a million people expected in Times Square. Authorities are on high alert following recent attacks in Germany, deploying sand trucks and drones for safety. Meanwhile, Puerto Rico faces a massive blackout affecting 90% of the island, with restoration efforts underway. In South Korea, investigators are examining a plane crash involving a Boeing 737-800, with U.S. experts assisting. The video also pays tribute to former President Jimmy Carter, highlighting his family's reflections on his legacy and upcoming funeral arrangements.
Key Points:
- New York City is implementing extensive security for New Year's Eve, including drones and sand trucks.
- Puerto Rico is experiencing a major blackout, affecting 90% of homes and businesses.
- A plane crash in South Korea is under investigation, with U.S. experts on-site.
- Jimmy Carter's family is preparing for his funeral, reflecting on his legacy.
- Respiratory illnesses are rising in the U.S., with low vaccination rates.
Details:
1. 🗞️ Headlines and New Year's Eve Prep
- Puerto Rico is experiencing a massive power outage affecting almost the entire island, raising concerns about the duration and cause of the blackout.
- New York City is deploying thousands of officers and closing streets to ensure safety for the expected one million attendees at the Times Square New Year's Eve ball drop.
- An Arctic blast is anticipated to impact weather conditions as the year transitions to 2024, with millions on alert for rain and snow.
- Investigations are underway in South Korea regarding the worst air disaster in the country's history, with the NTSB involved and 179 fatalities reported.
- A partial building collapse in New Orleans downtown has raised alarms, with ongoing safety assessments.
- A family tragedy in Mexico involves the shooting deaths of three relatives and a fourth member, a teenage boy, critically injured.
- Global New Year's celebrations are being highlighted, showcasing different cultural festivities worldwide.
2. 🛡️ Heightened Security in Times Square
- More than 1 million people are expected to pack Times Square for the New Year's Eve celebration.
- Security measures include deploying trucks filled with sand and concrete barriers to block intersections.
- Manholes, mailboxes, and trash cans are sealed or removed to prevent potential threats.
- Security checks are mandatory for all attendees, prohibiting large bags and umbrellas.
- Police are utilizing drones, K-9 units, and thousands of officers to monitor the celebrations.
- There is a heightened police presence in the subway system following a recent attack; a suspect is in custody.
- Despite no specific threats, security is increased following a recent attack in Germany that resulted in five deaths and hundreds of injuries.
- The overall security strategy aims to ensure public safety without disrupting the celebratory atmosphere.
3. ❄️ Weather Alert for New Year's Eve
- Crowds in Times Square are preparing for rain on New Year's Eve as an arctic blast approaches.
- Rain showers are expected to reach the New York Tri-State area by midnight, impacting celebrations.
- Most of the country will experience dry weather, suitable for fireworks displays.
- Minneapolis is expected to feel like 7 degrees below zero on Saturday morning due to cold air.
- Wind advisories are issued for areas from D.C. to Boston, impacting New Year's celebrations.
- Specific regions like Times Square are preparing for weather impacts, with rain expected to affect festivities.
- Cold temperatures are anticipated across the Midwest, impacting outdoor events.
- Wind conditions could affect fireworks and outdoor gatherings along the Northeast coast.
- Strategic preparation is advised for events in areas expecting severe weather conditions.
- Organizers in regions expecting adverse weather are advised to have contingency plans.
4. 🔌 Power Outage Crisis in Puerto Rico
4.1. Initial Impact and Cause
4.2. Response Efforts
4.3. Federal Assistance
5. ✈️ South Korea Plane Crash Investigation
5.1. Investigation Team and Process
5.2. Crash Details and Aftermath
6. 🇺🇸 Remembering Jimmy Carter & Market Recap
6.1. Remembering Jimmy Carter
6.2. Market Recap
7. 🌍 Worldwide New Year Celebrations
- Sydney, Australia showcased its iconic fireworks show over the harbor, attracting tourists with its blend of natural beauty and cultural tradition.
- Hong Kong marked the start of 2025 with a vibrant sky display, emphasizing its cultural significance and drawing international attention.
- Dubai's celebration featured a monumental fireworks display from the world's tallest building, underscoring its global reputation for opulence and innovation.
- Paris, the 'City of Light,' hosted a dazzling fireworks display, reinforcing its cultural heritage as a center for art and festivities.
- New York City, USA celebrated with the iconic ball drop in Times Square, a tradition watched by millions worldwide, symbolizing unity and hope.
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil combined beach festivities with fireworks over Copacabana, reflecting its lively culture and festive spirit.
8. 🏚️ New Orleans Collapse & Family Tragedy
- A partial building collapse occurred in downtown New Orleans on Magazine Street, causing significant disruption.
- The collapse resulted in a transformer being affected, leading to a power outage impacting local businesses and residents.
- Emergency services responded promptly, ensuring no injuries were reported despite debris covering cars and the street.
- The area was cordoned off to facilitate a thorough investigation and ensure public safety.
- This incident underscores the need for regular structural assessments to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
9. 🔫 L.A. Mall Shooting & Mexican Family Attack
9.1. L.A. Mall Shooting
9.2. Mexican Family Attack
10. 🌌 Northern Lights & Farewell to Aaron Brown
- Residents in the northern U.S., from Washington State to Maine, may witness the Northern Lights tonight, marking the third occurrence this year due to powerful solar storms.
- Aaron Brown, former correspondent for 'World News Tonight' and weekend anchor, has passed away at 76. He is remembered for his quick wit and gift of language, as noted by ABC News President Almin Karamehmedovic.