1. At least three people are recovering after a series of explosions at a Dallas facility selling gas canisters. The blast sent flaming debris into the air. Authorities evacuated a half mile area surrounding the facility and shut down parts of two busy highways.

2. Airports’ security officers are on the lookout for terrorists practicing attacks. The alert comes after agents said several airports seized what may seem like normal items, cell phone components and a block of cheese. But these same passengers were also carrying potential bomb-making supplies.

3. The House Judiciary Committee is clearing the way to file contempt charges against former White House counsel Harriet Miers and Chief of Staff Josh Bolten. Miers refused to testify about the firings of eight US attorneys.

4. It's a dramatic rescue in China caught on tape. Rescuers had to make several attempts to pull these children to safety in this southwestern province. So far torrential rains have killed at least 37 people with 14 others reported missing.



WORDS IN THE NEWS

1. canister: N-COUNT usu n N
A canister is a strong metal container. It is used to hold gases or chemical substances.

2. debris: N-UNCOUNT
Debris is pieces from something that has been destroyed or pieces of rubbish or unwanted material that are spread around.

3. contempt: N-UNCOUNT oft N for n
If you have contempt for someone or something, you have no respect for them or think that they are unimportant.

4. torrential: ADJ usu ADJ n
Torrential rain pours down very rapidly and in great quantities.