QUICK HITS

1 U.N. chief issues climate warning: The head of the United Nations warned that rising sea levels caused by global warming could spur a mass migration from low-lying areas on a “biblical scale.” Speaking to the Security Council in New York about the impact of sea level rises on global peace and security, U.N. Secretary General António Guterres said that some 900 million people live in low-lying coastal areas. 2 IRS nominee seeks to quell scare tactics: President Joe Biden’s nominee to lead the Internal Revenue Service says that, if confirmed, he will commit to not increasing tax audits on businesses and households making less than $400,000 per year. Daniel Werfel made that pledge in prepared remarks for his confirmation hearing Wednesday before the Senate Finance Committee. Republicans have suggested without evidence that the agency would use its new funding to hire an army of tax agents with weapons.

3 New Zealand cyclone: New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins says a cyclone that left a devastating wake of extensive flooding and landslides has claimed at least four lives and police have “grave concerns” for other residents who remain unaccounted for. Cyclone Gabrielle struck the country’s north on Monday.

4 Scotland leader to step down: Scottish leader Nicola Sturgeon said Wednesday that she plans to step down after more than eight years in office, amid criticism of her drive for transgender rights and her strategy for achieving independence from the U.K.

5 Computer issues: Germany’s air traffic control agency said Wednesday that it was diverting all flights away from the country’s busiest airport, Frankfurt, after a problem with Lufthansa’s computer systems caused major disruption at the German airline.