Translation of Rautenzeichen

Personal tragedies are mentioned everywhere although they do not influence our lifes. The funny thing is that these news are labeled as 'World news' on some major channels. It is totally unappropriate.
Indeed, these two are very stronlgy connected. The first is often led by a certain party or representative who represents the interest of the others. It gives them a feeling of togetherness and belonging.
Police cars drove around the town and called all citizens and tourists to leave the island immediately. I was told, that the hurricane which was supposed to go over Cuba was on the way to us.