India has launched what it says is the heaviest satellite ever lifted from the country, using an Indian-made launcher. The BlueBird Block-2 is the largest commercial communications satellite in orbit and is designed to provide space-based cellular broadband to smartphones. | Al Jazeera English

A powerful winter storm has unleashed torrential rain across Southern California, triggering flash flooding and prompting evacuation orders. Authorities have declared a state of emergency in six counties and warn the dangerous conditions could continue through Christmas Day. | Al Jazeera English