Nation

California

New storm hits SoCal

WRIGHTWOOD — Another powerful storm system that could soak Southern California with its wettest Christmas in years rolled into the region on Thursday, potentially causing more flooding and mudslides a day after heavy rain and gusty winds were blamed for at least two deaths.

Forecasters warned the additional rain could increase the risk of debris flows in waterlogged areas scorched by wildfires in January.

Colorado

Ski resort to close

FORT COLLINS — Telluride, one of the best-known ski resorts in the western U.S., plans to close in the coming days due to a labor dispute between its owner and the ski patrol union.

The Telluride Professional Ski Patrol Association voted Tuesday to strike Saturday after contract negotiations since June failed to yield an agreement on pay. With no more talks planned before the weekend, the resort said it will not open that day.

World

Turkey

Attack plans thwarted

ISTANBUL — Istanbul police launched scores of simultaneous raids on Thursday, detaining over a hundred suspected members of the militant Islamic State group who were allegedly planning attacks against Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, authorities said.

A statement from the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office said police were tipped off that the extremist group had called for action during the celebrations.

Algeria

Vote against colonization

ALGIERS — Legislators in Algeria voted to declare France’s colonization of the North African country a crime, approving a law that calls for restitution of property taken by France during its 130-year rule, among other demands seeking to redress historical wrongs.

France slammed the law as a “hostile act” threatening bilateral efforts to heal wounds of the past. The two countries retain close cultural and economic ties but have troubled diplomatic relations.