The cloud is heading in the general direction of Saturn and poses no threat to Earth. Like the similar flare reported yesterday, today's event was centered on old sunspot group 1100. Solar rotation will turn this active region back toward Earth for possible geoeffective action in about 7 to 9 days. Stay tuned!

Posted: 8:17:55 PM  

The Coast Guard is saying that a mile-long oil sheen is spreading from the site off an offshore petroleum platform that exploded in the Gulf of Mexico off Louisiana.

The site of the explosion is west of where BP's massive spill occurred.

The Coast Guard said no one was killed Thursday in the explosion. The blast was spotted by a commercial helicopter flying over the site.

All 13 people aboard the rig were found floating in the water in survival gear.

Posted: 8:13:32 PM  

President Barack Obama declares emergency as Hurricane Earl looms

"If Hurricane Earl worsens, additional people may be ordered to evacuate.

Note:

Time of posting (911).

Tropical Storm Gaston's path a question mark

We'll have just to have wait and see. Hopefully, we'll have a better idea of its intentions by early next week.

Posted: 9:29:00 AM  

Sarah is 43, single and celibate — and determined to remain so. Each night she fastens a wire chain, known as a cilice, around her upper thigh.

The device has sharp prongs that dig into the skin and flesh, though generally it does not draw blood. To most women, it sounds a peculiarly [not equal]masochistic practice.

Posted: 9:22:25 AM  

Attorney General WILL study papers that could finally lead to an inquest

It is a highly unusual step which means that, for the first time, Mr Grieve is actively seeking the evidence required to hold a new inquiry into the weapons inspector's death.

Posted: 9:21:16 AM