We woke up this morning and heard the grim news from London of what appears to be a shocking coordinated attack on the city’s transportation system during the morning rush hour. According to the BBC, there have been explosions near three Underground stations — Edgware Road, Aldgate, and the massive King’s Cross station — and on one double-decker bus near Tavistock Square. The city’s transportation system has been shut down.

In response to the attacks in London, officials in Washington are on alert as well. WMATA has heightened security on the metrorail system this morning. There’ll be more developments as the day goes on.

If you’re concerned about a friend or relative in London, the British Transport Police have set up an emergency contact number: +44 20 8358 0101, but mobile and land-line service is overloaded. And read more minute-by-minute information from Londonist, who are all over coverage.

>> More from Gothamist and the Post.
>> The Guardian’s news blog.
>> London Blast Flickr group.

Now to this morning’s news …

Smoking Ban Legislation Withdrawn: A bill that would have banned smoking citywide in dining areas has been withdrawn from D.C. City Council consideration after not garnering enough support, the Post reports. Smoking ban advocates and their champions on the council are not disheartened as they think it’ll be better to push a more comprehensive ban through the council.

Where’d the Money Go? The W.Times tries to track down federal dollars given to District officials for bioterrorism prevention and response. Only about half of the $24.4 million has been spent.

From the W.Times:

However, the District does not appear to be at immediate risk of losing the bioterrorism funds. In a written response to the inspector general, city officials last month said the CDC has extended the use of $11.8 million in unspent funds through Aug. 30.

Details of the 15th Street Attack: The Post details the heroic actions of the neighbors who intervened in Tuesday’s shocking stabbing attack on a 24 year-old economist by a man high on PCP.

Briefly Noted: No signs of panda preganancy yet … D.C.’s cardinal turns 75 years old … Remains of Cindy sends rain our way …