ARTIST’S VIEW of what a newly-discovered planet 4.22 million light years away might look like (European Southern Observatory).

Scientists reported Wednesday that a planet somewhat similar to Earth, one that could support life, has been found a mere 4.22 light years away. That’s about 25 million actual miles. The planet orbits the star Proxima Centauri, the closest star to our planet. Barring the invention of “Star Trek”-like warp drives, probes from Earth could reach this new place before the end of the 21st century, reports the Associated Press.

QUAKE TOLL IN ITALY AT 120

At 120 people have been killed in an earthquake that struck central Italy erly Wednesday. According to the Associated Press, the magnitude 6 quake smashed three towns, reducing many buildings to rubble. Rescue efforts are underway and the death toll is expected to rise. Damage was the severest in the towns of Amatrice, Accumoli and Pescara del Tronto. The temblor was felt as far away as Rome, which is 80 miles away.

ISIS FORCES REPORTED OUSTED FROM TOWN

Islamic State forces have been pushed out of the city of Jarablus in northern Syrian after Turkey sent tanks and special forces there. American warplanes were also in action there in support of Syrian troops seeking to push back the ISIS fighters. The border city is considered to be strategic as it sits astride a key supply line. The attack began at 4 a.m. local time.

WILL YOUR HOUSE BE UNDERWATER?

Nearly two million homes in the United States will be underwater – literally – if the predicted six-foot rise in sea levels strikes by 2100. The Washington Post reports that an analysis by real estate data firm Zillow is stating that property losses would run into the hundreds of billions of dollars. Although Florida would be hardest-hit – 934,311 homes lost – there would also be losses in California of 42,453.

The Midday Report is posted Monday through Friday as staff time permits. Want more national and international news? Go to: http://bigstory.ap.org .