Around the Nation

CALIFORNIA

Storm creates mudslides

LOS ANGELES — A powerful storm battered Southern California yesterday with winds of up to 60 mph and heavy rain, causing power outages and mudslides.

Meteorologists predicted unstable, wet weather through next week — with rain possible for the Rose Parade on New Year’s Day. It hasn’t rained on the Rose Parade since 1955.

Police said the storm might have contributed to the death of a young man who apparently tried to surf in 10- to 12-foot waves. Residents were ordered to evacuate about 50 homes in one section of the San Bernardino County town of Devore.

MINNESOTA

Building explosion kills two

RAMSEY — An explosion flattened a commercial building yesterday, killing at least two persons and critically injuring a third. A fourth person was missing.

A small flame was visible in the ruins, suggesting a gas-line break. But sheriff’s Capt. Robert Aldrich said the cause of the midmorning blast was not known. The building housed a real-estate business and bank offices.

ARKANSAS

Fluoridation plan spurs criticism

LITTLE ROCK — A fight is brewing over a legislator’s suggestion that the state’s water supply be fluoridated. State Rep. Tommy Roebuck said he may introduce a bill to require all communities to fluoridate their water.

Opponent Sherry Johnson, president of the Arkansas Health Freedom Coalition, said: “If you want fluoride, go to the dentist and get fluoride.”

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