The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) said in a report that the raging Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolution could lead to job losses in skilled professions such as law, medicine, finance, and more.&nbsp;

OECD said in its 2023 Employment Outlook that skilled jobs are at the highest risk from AI-driven automation. The jobs represented about 27 per cent of employment across its 38 member countries, including the United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, the United States, Australia, and Canada.&nbsp;

It said in the report that it was "clear that the potential for [AI-driven jobs] substitution remains significant, raising fears of decreasing wages and job losses" and also said that for the time being AI was changing jobs rather than replacing them.&nbsp;

"Occupations in finance, medicine and legal activities which often require many years of education, and whose core functions rely on accumulated experience to reach decisions, may suddenly find themselves at risk of automation from AI," OECD added.&nbsp;

It went on to say that highly skilled jobs, such as those in law, culture, science, engineering, and commerce, were the ones most vulnerable to automation.&nbsp;

The organisation said that "these rapid developments, combined with the falling costs of producing and adopting these new technologies, suggest that OECD economies may be on the cusp of an AI revolution which could fundamentally change the workplace".&nbsp;

The body also said that there's an "urgent need to act" on AI. It said: "Urgent action is required to make sure AI is used responsibly and in a trustworthy way in the workplace."&nbsp;

OECD is an intergovernmental organisation with 38 Member countries and was founded in 1961 to stimulate economic progress and world trade.&nbsp;

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The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) said in a report that the raging Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolution could lead to job losses in skilled professions such as law, medicine, finance, and more.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) said in a report that the raging Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolution could lead to job losses in skilled professions such as law, medicine, finance, and more. OECD said in its 2023 Employment Outlook that skilled jobs are at the highest risk from AI-driven automation. The jobs represented about 27 per cent of employment across its 38 member countries, including the United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, the United States, Australia, and Canada. It said in the report that it was "clear that the potential for [AI-driven jobs] substitution remains significant, raising fears of decreasing wages and job losses" and also said that for the time being AI was changing jobs rather than replacing them. "Occupations in finance, medicine and legal activities which often require many years of education, and whose core functions rely on accumulated experience to reach decisions, may suddenly find themselves at risk of automation from AI," OECD added. It went on to say that highly skilled jobs, such as those in law, culture, science, engineering, and commerce, were the ones most vulnerable to automation. The organisation said that "these rapid developments, combined with the falling costs of producing and adopting these new technologies, suggest that OECD economies may be on the cusp of an AI revolution which could fundamentally change the workplace". The body also said that there's an "urgent need to act" on AI. It said: "Urgent action is required to make sure AI is used responsibly and in a trustworthy way in the workplace." OECD is an intergovernmental organisation with 38 Member countries and was founded in 1961 to stimulate economic progress and world trade. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

AI-powered automation puts skilled jobs like those in finance, law at highest risk: OECD

South Korea and Japan said on Wednesday (July 12) that North Korea has fired a ballistic missile, which is said to be its 12th this year.&nbsp;

This comes amid fierce claims and counterclaims over US "spy" planes "violating" North Korean airspace. The South Korean military said it was a long-range missile.

Referring to the body of water, also known as the Sea of Japan, the Joint Chiefs of Staff said, "North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile into the East Sea."&nbsp;

Japan's coast guard noted that the missile seemed to land outside Japan's exclusive economic zone, roughly 550 kilometres east of the Korean peninsula at around 11:13 am local time (0213 GMT).&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kims-sister-accuses-us-of-illegal-intrusion-of-airspace-by-surveillance-and-spy-planes-614324">Kim’s sister alleges ‘illegal intrusion’ of North Korean airspace by US surveillance, spy planes</a>

Meanwhile, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said that the military "detected what was presumed to be a long-range ballistic missile shot from the Pyongyang area around 1000 (0100 GMT) toward the East Sea".&nbsp;

So far this year, North Korea has successfully test-fired its first solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) and attempted to launch its first spy satellite on a new launch vehicle.&nbsp;

Notably, UN Security Council resolutions prohibit North Korea from using ballistic missile technology, including for satellite launches.

<h2>Claims over US spy planes</h2>

The US and North Korea have been engaged in a fiery altercation over claims of US spy planes, with Pyongyang on Monday condemning Washington's plans to deploy a nuclear missile submarine near the Korean peninsula.&nbsp;

A spokesperson for the North Korean Ministry of National Defence said the United States had "intensified espionage activities beyond the wartime level", citing "provocative" spy plane flights for eight straight days this month.&nbsp;

The statement, carried by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), said one reconnaissance plane intruded into North Korean airspace over the East Sea "several times".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-marines-without-confirmed-leader-for-first-time-in-100-yrs-614171">US Marines without confirmed leader for first time in 100 years</a>&nbsp;

"There is no guarantee that such a shocking accident as the downing of the US Air Force strategic reconnaissance plane will not happen in the East Sea of Korea," the spokesperson added.&nbsp;

Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, issued a warning to the US after Pyongyang said that it scrambled warplanes to ward off an American spy plane that had intruded into its exclusive economic zone.

Kim's sister said, "The intrusion into the DPRK's 200-nautical mile economic water zone by the reconnaissance asset of the hostile country…is clearly a grave encroachment upon the sovereignty and security of the DPRK."&nbsp;

She added that "a shocking incident would occur in the long run in the 20-40 section in which the US spy planes habitually intrude into the sky above the economic water zone" of North Korea.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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South Korea and Japan said on Wednesday (July 12) that North Korea has fired a ballistic missile, which is said to be its 12th this year. This comes amid fierce claims and counterclaims over US "spy" planes "violating" North Korean airspace.

South Korea and Japan said on Wednesday (July 12) that North Korea has fired a ballistic missile, which is said to be its 12th this year. This comes amid fierce claims and counterclaims over US "spy" planes "violating" North Korean airspace. The South Korean military said it was a long-range missile. Referring to the body of water, also known as the Sea of Japan, the Joint Chiefs of Staff said, "North Korea fired an unidentified ballistic missile into the East Sea." Japan's coast guard noted that the missile seemed to land outside Japan's exclusive economic zone, roughly 550 kilometres east of the Korean peninsula at around 11:13 am local time (0213 GMT). Also read: Kim’s sister alleges ‘illegal intrusion’ of North Korean airspace by US surveillance, spy planes Meanwhile, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said that the military "detected what was presumed to be a long-range ballistic missile shot from the Pyongyang area around 1000 (0100 GMT) toward the East Sea". So far this year, North Korea has successfully test-fired its first solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) and attempted to launch its first spy satellite on a new launch vehicle. Notably, UN Security Council resolutions prohibit North Korea from using ballistic missile technology, including for satellite launches. Claims over US spy planes The US and North Korea have been engaged in a fiery altercation over claims of US spy planes, with Pyongyang on Monday condemning Washington's plans to deploy a nuclear missile submarine near the Korean peninsula. A spokesperson for the North Korean Ministry of National Defence said the United States had "intensified espionage activities beyond the wartime level", citing "provocative" spy plane flights for eight straight days this month. The statement, carried by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), said one reconnaissance plane intruded into North Korean airspace over the East Sea "several times". Also read: US Marines without confirmed leader for first time in 100 years "There is no guarantee that such a shocking accident as the downing of the US Air Force strategic reconnaissance plane will not happen in the East Sea of Korea," the spokesperson added. Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, issued a warning to the US after Pyongyang said that it scrambled warplanes to ward off an American spy plane that had intruded into its exclusive economic zone. Kim's sister said, "The intrusion into the DPRK's 200-nautical mile economic water zone by the reconnaissance asset of the hostile country…is clearly a grave encroachment upon the sovereignty and security of the DPRK." She added that "a shocking incident would occur in the long run in the 20-40 section in which the US spy planes habitually intrude into the sky above the economic water zone" of North Korea. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

North Korea fires suspected long-range ballistic missile, 12th this year

In the wake of the tax scandal, it was revealed by PwC Australia that former chief executive Tom Seymour was the highest-paid partner at the firm, as he took home $4.6 million in 2021-22, local media outlets reported. &nbsp;

During the enquiry, it was also revealed that the firm received dozens of misconduct complaints against partners during the past five years.&nbsp;

Not just PwC, reports have said that dozens of partners and staff at Australia's biggest consulting firms have been fired because of conduct breaches including integrity failures, dishonesty, bullying and sexual harassment over the past two years.&nbsp;

The resignations were revealed to a Senate probe into the activities of government consulting firms, which was led by PwC's misuse of classified tax policy information.&nbsp;

Australian Greens senator Barbara Pocock asked PwC about the issue. The firm replied that it had received 88 internal complaints about staff conduct last financial year, with 38 substantiated.&nbsp;

It said that the majority of these were classed as "code of conduct breaches" or bullying. According to the reports, eleven people were sacked and others were warned of facing pay cuts.&nbsp;

As quoted, KPMG's Senate submission said, "We will continue to empower our people to speak up about any unethical or inappropriate behaviour in the workplace, especially to their leaders. For that reason, we view any increase in reporting in the immediate term as a sign of progress."&nbsp;

The Senate was told that eight partners at EY Australia have been sacked in the past two years for failing to meet the company's values.&nbsp;

It is mentioned that the reasons for sacking included sexual harassment, bullying, dishonesty and "not acting with integrity in relation to a workplace investigation".&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Deloitte said that there were 121 incidents of misbehaviour in the previous fiscal year, 13 of which involved partners, four of whom were fired.&nbsp;

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In the wake of the tax scandal, it was revealed by PwC Australia that former chief executive Tom Seymour was the highest-paid partner at the firm, as he took home $4.

In the wake of the tax scandal, it was revealed by PwC Australia that former chief executive Tom Seymour was the highest-paid partner at the firm, as he took home $4.6 million in 2021-22, local media outlets reported. During the enquiry, it was also revealed that the firm received dozens of misconduct complaints against partners during the past five years. Not just PwC, reports have said that dozens of partners and staff at Australia's biggest consulting firms have been fired because of conduct breaches including integrity failures, dishonesty, bullying and sexual harassment over the past two years. The resignations were revealed to a Senate probe into the activities of government consulting firms, which was led by PwC's misuse of classified tax policy information. Australian Greens senator Barbara Pocock asked PwC about the issue. The firm replied that it had received 88 internal complaints about staff conduct last financial year, with 38 substantiated. It said that the majority of these were classed as "code of conduct breaches" or bullying. According to the reports, eleven people were sacked and others were warned of facing pay cuts. As quoted, KPMG's Senate submission said, "We will continue to empower our people to speak up about any unethical or inappropriate behaviour in the workplace, especially to their leaders. For that reason, we view any increase in reporting in the immediate term as a sign of progress." The Senate was told that eight partners at EY Australia have been sacked in the past two years for failing to meet the company's values. It is mentioned that the reasons for sacking included sexual harassment, bullying, dishonesty and "not acting with integrity in relation to a workplace investigation". Meanwhile, Deloitte said that there were 121 incidents of misbehaviour in the previous fiscal year, 13 of which involved partners, four of whom were fired. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australian big consultancy firms fired dozens of staff and partners because of misconduct

Damage from riots sparked by the police killing of a teenager in&nbsp;France&nbsp;has resulted in a $715 million insurance bill, an industry body said Tuesday.

The government battled days of unrest after a police officer shot dead 17-year-old Nahel M. during a traffic stop in a Paris suburb on June 27.

Nahel had Algerian roots, and the killing rekindled long-standing accusations of systemic racism in&nbsp;France.

There have been 11,300 claims linked to the riots, said the head of the&nbsp;France&nbsp;Assureurs federation Florence Lustman -- who put the bill at 650 million euros.

Last week, Lustman gave a figure of at least 280 million euros, stressing that many claims had yet to be made.

Around a third of the damage being claimed for took place on local authority property,&nbsp;France&nbsp;Assureurs said.

Earlier this month, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire urged insurers to extend the deadline for claims.

The riots marked&nbsp;France's most intense urban violence in nearly two decades, with cars torched, buildings damaged and public spaces vandalised across the country.

Last week a UN committee called on&nbsp;France&nbsp;to ensure an investigation into the killing of Nahel was "thorough and impartial", and called for racial profiling to be banned.

The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination raised concerns over "racial profiling and excessive use of force by law enforcement".&nbsp;

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Damage from riots sparked by the police killing of a teenager in France has resulted in a $715 million insurance bill, an industry body said Tuesday. The government battled days of unrest after a police officer shot dead 17-year-old Nahel M.

Damage from riots sparked by the police killing of a teenager in France has resulted in a $715 million insurance bill, an industry body said Tuesday. The government battled days of unrest after a police officer shot dead 17-year-old Nahel M. during a traffic stop in a Paris suburb on June 27. Nahel had Algerian roots, and the killing rekindled long-standing accusations of systemic racism in France. There have been 11,300 claims linked to the riots, said the head of the France Assureurs federation Florence Lustman -- who put the bill at 650 million euros. Last week, Lustman gave a figure of at least 280 million euros, stressing that many claims had yet to be made. Around a third of the damage being claimed for took place on local authority property, France Assureurs said. Earlier this month, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire urged insurers to extend the deadline for claims. The riots marked France's most intense urban violence in nearly two decades, with cars torched, buildings damaged and public spaces vandalised across the country. Last week a UN committee called on France to ensure an investigation into the killing of Nahel was "thorough and impartial", and called for racial profiling to be banned. The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination raised concerns over "racial profiling and excessive use of force by law enforcement". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

France riot damage racks up $700 mn insurance bill

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in an interview that the armed confrontation in Ukraine will continue until the West gives up plans to dominate and defeat Moscow.&nbsp;

The interview with an Indonesian newspaper was published on Wednesday (July 12). Lavrov said that the goal of the "US-led collective West" is to strengthen its global hegemony.&nbsp;

Russia has often warned the West against supplying precision and long-range weapons to Ukraine during the ongoing war, which started last year in February.&nbsp;

The Russian minister told the Kompas newspaper that Kyiv is ignoring Indonesia's peace plan and instead promoting its own "package of ultimatums".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lost-child-in-a-fair-internet-reacts-to-zelenskys-photo-at-nato-summit-614628">'Lost child in a fair': Internet reacts to Zelensky's photo at NATO Summit</a>&nbsp;

According to a transcript of the interview published on Russia's foreign ministry website, Lavrov asked, "Why doesn't the armed confrontation in Ukraine come to an end?"

"The answer is very simple – it will continue until the West gives up its plans to preserve its domination and overcome its obsessive desire to inflict on Russia a strategic defeat at the hands of its Kyiv puppets," said Lavrov, who is due to attend the East Asia Summit and ASEAN Regional Forum in Jakarta this week.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;NATO nod for training Ukrainian pilots, says 'no membership but military support continues'&nbsp;

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<h2>Russian air strikes on Kyiv amind NATO gathering&nbsp;</h2>

The Ukrainian military said on Wednesday that Russia launched a wave of kamikaze drone attacks on Kyiv and nearby regions for the second night in a row.&nbsp;

The strikes were carried out just hours before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was due to meet NATO leaders at a summit that has backed Ukraine's independence.

As per reports, air alarms were issued over Kyiv and across Ukraine for more than two hours, and combat continued.&nbsp;

Ukrainian military said that there were no immediate reports of casualties or major destruction and all the drones were intercepted before hitting their targets.&nbsp;

Serhiy Popko, head of Kyiv's military administration, said on the Telegram messaging app: "The 504th day of the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation into Ukraine. The enemy launched another air attack on the capital."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-blocks-delivery-of-aids-to-rebel-held-regions-of-syria-after-vetoing-un-vote-614559">Russia blocks delivery of aid to rebel-held regions of Syria after vetoing UN vote</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Lavrov on Myanmar situation&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

While speaking on the current Myanmar situation and internal strife since a military coup in 2021, Lavrov urged the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to resolve issues with "close cooperation" with the junta. He added that Myanmar's domestic affairs must not be interfered with.

ASEAN foreign ministers meeting on Tuesday was expected to address the growing violence in Myanmar. The regional bloc has barred the junta from its summits for failing to implement an agreed peace plan.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in an interview that the armed confrontation in Ukraine will continue until the West gives up plans to dominate and defeat Moscow.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in an interview that the armed confrontation in Ukraine will continue until the West gives up plans to dominate and defeat Moscow. The interview with an Indonesian newspaper was published on Wednesday (July 12). Lavrov said that the goal of the "US-led collective West" is to strengthen its global hegemony. Russia has often warned the West against supplying precision and long-range weapons to Ukraine during the ongoing war, which started last year in February. The Russian minister told the Kompas newspaper that Kyiv is ignoring Indonesia's peace plan and instead promoting its own "package of ultimatums". Also read: 'Lost child in a fair': Internet reacts to Zelensky's photo at NATO Summit According to a transcript of the interview published on Russia's foreign ministry website, Lavrov asked, "Why doesn't the armed confrontation in Ukraine come to an end?" "The answer is very simple – it will continue until the West gives up its plans to preserve its domination and overcome its obsessive desire to inflict on Russia a strategic defeat at the hands of its Kyiv puppets," said Lavrov, who is due to attend the East Asia Summit and ASEAN Regional Forum in Jakarta this week. Watch: NATO nod for training Ukrainian pilots, says 'no membership but military support continues' × Russian air strikes on Kyiv amind NATO gathering The Ukrainian military said on Wednesday that Russia launched a wave of kamikaze drone attacks on Kyiv and nearby regions for the second night in a row. The strikes were carried out just hours before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was due to meet NATO leaders at a summit that has backed Ukraine's independence. As per reports, air alarms were issued over Kyiv and across Ukraine for more than two hours, and combat continued. Ukrainian military said that there were no immediate reports of casualties or major destruction and all the drones were intercepted before hitting their targets. Serhiy Popko, head of Kyiv's military administration, said on the Telegram messaging app: "The 504th day of the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation into Ukraine. The enemy launched another air attack on the capital." Also read: Russia blocks delivery of aid to rebel-held regions of Syria after vetoing UN vote Lavrov on Myanmar situation While speaking on the current Myanmar situation and internal strife since a military coup in 2021, Lavrov urged the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to resolve issues with "close cooperation" with the junta. He added that Myanmar's domestic affairs must not be interfered with. ASEAN foreign ministers meeting on Tuesday was expected to address the growing violence in Myanmar. The regional bloc has barred the junta from its summits for failing to implement an agreed peace plan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war: Lavrov says conflict will not end until West drops plans to defeat Moscow

American professional surfer&nbsp;Mikala&nbsp;Jones, known for shooting striking photographs inside barreling waves, has died after a surfing accident in Indonesia. He was 44.

The death of the Hawaii-born surfer, who lived in Indonesia, was announced by his daughter Isabella in a Sunday social media post

"I'm in so much disbelief right now, this doesn't feel real," Isabella wrote in an Instagram post.

"I wish this never happened and we could just wake up and go surf together tomorrow morning."

In explaining her father's death, she said: "I'm not sure how to put this in words, but my dad got into a bad surfing accident and didn't make it. I'm happy he was doing what he loved the most. Life will never be the same without you.

"Thank you for teaching me so many life lessons, and always being there for me. I wish you were still here with us right now. I will always be thinking about you dad."

Reef apparel paid tribute to&nbsp;Jones&nbsp;on its website, calling him, "a father, an explorer of uncharted surf, and arguably one of the most barreled surfers on the planet.

"You made us wonder with just enough healthy FOMO (fear of missing out).

"Mikala&nbsp;was a surfing savant. An artist ahead of his time painting his canvas on waves like no other. A contemporary surfing POV content creator ahead of his time."

(With inputs from agencies)

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American professional surfer Mikala Jones, known for shooting striking photographs inside barreling waves, has died after a surfing accident in Indonesia. He was 44.

American professional surfer Mikala Jones, known for shooting striking photographs inside barreling waves, has died after a surfing accident in Indonesia. He was 44. The death of the Hawaii-born surfer, who lived in Indonesia, was announced by his daughter Isabella in a Sunday social media post "I'm in so much disbelief right now, this doesn't feel real," Isabella wrote in an Instagram post. "I wish this never happened and we could just wake up and go surf together tomorrow morning." In explaining her father's death, she said: "I'm not sure how to put this in words, but my dad got into a bad surfing accident and didn't make it. I'm happy he was doing what he loved the most. Life will never be the same without you. "Thank you for teaching me so many life lessons, and always being there for me. I wish you were still here with us right now. I will always be thinking about you dad." Reef apparel paid tribute to Jones on its website, calling him, "a father, an explorer of uncharted surf, and arguably one of the most barreled surfers on the planet. "You made us wonder with just enough healthy FOMO (fear of missing out). "Mikala was a surfing savant. An artist ahead of his time painting his canvas on waves like no other. A contemporary surfing POV content creator ahead of his time." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mikala Jones: US pro surfer Jones dead at 44

Taiwan's defence ministry confirmed on Wednesday (July 12) that the Chinese air force and navy staged a second day of large-scale exercises with fighter jets, bombers, and warships near the island nation's south and southwest.&nbsp;

Chinese national television broadcaster CCTV reported that the military tested helicopters and drones in the rescue of wounded soldiers from islands in a first-of-its-kind drill. The drill was carried out by the command responsible for overseeing the Taiwan Strait.&nbsp;

It's not certain when the exercises took place.&nbsp;CCTV's military channel reported on Monday that the exercises were conducted by the People's Liberation Army Eastern Theatre Command on an unidentified island off the east coast of Zhejiang province.&nbsp;

The CCTV report said that the test was focused on speeding up the evacuation of wounded soldiers from "medium- to long-distance islands" in both peace and wartime. The exercise used helicopters, which were coordinated by land and air forces.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-lawmakers-urges-further-scrutiny-of-fukushima-nuclear-wastewater-after-iaeas-nod-614612">South Korean lawmakers urges further scrutiny of Fukushima nuclear wastewater after IAEA's nod</a>&nbsp;

Beijing views self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and even claimed that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories. It also claims that Taiwan will defy China's one-nation policy by pushing for formal independence.&nbsp;

In case China invades Taiwan, experts have said that it would put a massive impact on the global supply chains as the island is a major supplier of semiconductors—a key component of nearly all modern electronics.

An act of invasion will also lead to a Western fury, inciting China's isolation and pushing Beijing and Washington closer than ever to a direct military conflict. It put will also put an end to Taiwan's hard-won democratic liberties. &nbsp;

In a report published by South China Morning Post, some military analysts said that the exercise addressed a PLA vulnerability – evacuation skills.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-election-commission-recommends-pm-hopeful-pita-limjaroenrats-suspension-as-mp-614554">Thailand: Election Commission recommends PM hopeful Pita Limjaroenrat's suspension as MP</a>&nbsp;

<h2>China's focus on 'golden rescue time'&nbsp;</h2>

The aim of such focused exercises was to prepare for possible military conflicts near coastal islands and in the Taiwan Strait.&nbsp;A video caption shown in the report read: "Due to geographical restrictions, medical evacuation of officers and soldiers is carried out over long distances and difficult."&nbsp;

The video showed that the drones were utilised for reconnaissance and pinpointing the positions of the simulated wounded soldiers in the practice and the wounded were seen in the footage being transported by a helicopter and transferred to a command hospital.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;China's hidden debt: A&nbsp;ticking time bomb

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The report quoted Su Xingliang, who is the director of the brigade's support department, as saying: "In this medical and logistics exercise, we introduced air mobility forces for the first time, which greatly shortened the evacuation and treatment time for the wounded."&nbsp;

According to Su, the exercise improved the medical treatment abilities of the coastal forces and future drills would involve working with local medical forces to ensure that every wounded person could be treated within the "golden rescue time".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taiwan's defence ministry confirmed on Wednesday (July 12) that the Chinese air force and navy staged a second day of large-scale exercises with fighter jets, bombers, and warships near the island nation's south and southwest.

Taiwan's defence ministry confirmed on Wednesday (July 12) that the Chinese air force and navy staged a second day of large-scale exercises with fighter jets, bombers, and warships near the island nation's south and southwest. Chinese national television broadcaster CCTV reported that the military tested helicopters and drones in the rescue of wounded soldiers from islands in a first-of-its-kind drill. The drill was carried out by the command responsible for overseeing the Taiwan Strait. It's not certain when the exercises took place. CCTV's military channel reported on Monday that the exercises were conducted by the People's Liberation Army Eastern Theatre Command on an unidentified island off the east coast of Zhejiang province. The CCTV report said that the test was focused on speeding up the evacuation of wounded soldiers from "medium- to long-distance islands" in both peace and wartime. The exercise used helicopters, which were coordinated by land and air forces. Also read: South Korean lawmakers urges further scrutiny of Fukushima nuclear wastewater after IAEA's nod Beijing views self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and even claimed that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories. It also claims that Taiwan will defy China's one-nation policy by pushing for formal independence. In case China invades Taiwan, experts have said that it would put a massive impact on the global supply chains as the island is a major supplier of semiconductors—a key component of nearly all modern electronics. An act of invasion will also lead to a Western fury, inciting China's isolation and pushing Beijing and Washington closer than ever to a direct military conflict. It put will also put an end to Taiwan's hard-won democratic liberties. In a report published by South China Morning Post, some military analysts said that the exercise addressed a PLA vulnerability – evacuation skills. Also read: Thailand: Election Commission recommends PM hopeful Pita Limjaroenrat's suspension as MP China's focus on 'golden rescue time' The aim of such focused exercises was to prepare for possible military conflicts near coastal islands and in the Taiwan Strait. A video caption shown in the report read: "Due to geographical restrictions, medical evacuation of officers and soldiers is carried out over long distances and difficult." The video showed that the drones were utilised for reconnaissance and pinpointing the positions of the simulated wounded soldiers in the practice and the wounded were seen in the footage being transported by a helicopter and transferred to a command hospital. Watch: China's hidden debt: A ticking time bomb × The report quoted Su Xingliang, who is the director of the brigade's support department, as saying: "In this medical and logistics exercise, we introduced air mobility forces for the first time, which greatly shortened the evacuation and treatment time for the wounded." According to Su, the exercise improved the medical treatment abilities of the coastal forces and future drills would involve working with local medical forces to ensure that every wounded person could be treated within the "golden rescue time". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PLA tests evacuation skills with helicopters and drones. Is China preparing for Taiwan war?

Six people were killed in a helicopter crash in central Nepal.


All 72 on board died in an ATR 72 aircraft crash in Pokhara. 


Twenty-two died after the aircraft crashed 15 minutes after taking off from Pokhara.

All seven died after a helicopter crashed in eastern Nepal. 

Fifty-one of 71 people on a Bangladeshi airliner died when it crashed at the Nepalese capital's airport.

Two people were dead after a small plane crashed in Nepal's Kalikot district. 

All 23 died after a small plane crashed in bad weather after taking off from Pokhara.


All 18 people on a small plane that crashed in bad weather were killed.

Seven Brits and five Chinese passengers were among 19 dead near Kathmandu.


All 19 foreign tourists died while en route to the Mount Everest after their plane crashed.

Mountainous Nepal has a history of deadly air crashes. Here's a list of some.

Top Deadly Aircraft Crashes in Nepal

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members are gathering in Lithuania's Vilnius for a key summit on Tuesday, but hours before that, Russia launched an air strike on Kyiv.&nbsp;

Ukraine's military said that the air strike was launched in the early hours of Tuesday, ahead of the summit where the member nations will discuss ways to tackle security threats from Moscow.&nbsp;

"The enemy attacked Kyiv from the air for the second time this month," Serhiy Popko, a head of Kyiv's military administration, said in a post on the Telegram channel.&nbsp;

Kyiv said that the attack used Iranian-made Shahed explosive drones, which were launched from the south, most likely from Russia's Krasnodar region.&nbsp;

Popko said that Ukraine's air defence systems shot down all the Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia launched before they reached their targets. As per preliminary information, there was no damage or casualties.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-meet-zelensky-at-nato-summit-in-show-of-support-against-russian-aggression-614071">Biden to meet Zelensky at NATO summit, in show of support against Russian aggression</a>&nbsp;

Ukraine's Air Force said that air raid alerts blasted over Kyiv for an hour and longer in other parts of Ukraine's east.&nbsp;

According to Kyiv's interior ministry, drone wreckage had been located at an undisclosed location in the Kyiv region, but it is not specified how many drones were downed.&nbsp;

The ministry said "windows and outbuildings of private households were damaged" and also added that there was no immediate information on victims.&nbsp;

Watch: Wagner fighters neared Russian nuclear bases during mutiny&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The month of May faced frequent nightly aerial raids in May which were comparatively more than at the beginning of the year. Sergiy Bratchuk of the local administration said that the western port city of Odesa was also targeted in an overnight drone strike.&nbsp;

Providing further details, he said that aerial defences had been activated. Air alerts were also reported in Mykolayiv, Kherson, Kirovograd, Poltava, Sumy, and Kharkiv regions.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/solomon-islands-signs-controversial-policing-deal-with-china-upgrades-ties-with-beijing-614126">Solomon Islands signs controversial policing deal with China, upgrades ties with Beijing</a>&nbsp;

<h2>NATO summit&nbsp;</h2>

As NATO leaders gather for a summit in Vilnius, they would sought to overcome divisions on Ukraine's membership bid after a deal to lift Turkey's block on Sweden joining the military alliance.&nbsp;

The summit will be dominated by the repercussions of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with leaders set to approve NATO's first comprehensive plans since the end of the Cold War to defend against any attack from Moscow.&nbsp;

According to the diplomats, the differences were narrowing over Ukraine's push for NATO membership, but NATO members agree that Kyiv cannot join during the war.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members are gathering in Lithuania's Vilnius for a key summit on Tuesday, but hours before that, Russia launched an air strike on Kyiv.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members are gathering in Lithuania's Vilnius for a key summit on Tuesday, but hours before that, Russia launched an air strike on Kyiv. Ukraine's military said that the air strike was launched in the early hours of Tuesday, ahead of the summit where the member nations will discuss ways to tackle security threats from Moscow. "The enemy attacked Kyiv from the air for the second time this month," Serhiy Popko, a head of Kyiv's military administration, said in a post on the Telegram channel. Kyiv said that the attack used Iranian-made Shahed explosive drones, which were launched from the south, most likely from Russia's Krasnodar region. Popko said that Ukraine's air defence systems shot down all the Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia launched before they reached their targets. As per preliminary information, there was no damage or casualties. Also read: Biden to meet Zelensky at NATO summit, in show of support against Russian aggression Ukraine's Air Force said that air raid alerts blasted over Kyiv for an hour and longer in other parts of Ukraine's east. According to Kyiv's interior ministry, drone wreckage had been located at an undisclosed location in the Kyiv region, but it is not specified how many drones were downed. The ministry said "windows and outbuildings of private households were damaged" and also added that there was no immediate information on victims. Watch: Wagner fighters neared Russian nuclear bases during mutiny × The month of May faced frequent nightly aerial raids in May which were comparatively more than at the beginning of the year. Sergiy Bratchuk of the local administration said that the western port city of Odesa was also targeted in an overnight drone strike. Providing further details, he said that aerial defences had been activated. Air alerts were also reported in Mykolayiv, Kherson, Kirovograd, Poltava, Sumy, and Kharkiv regions. Also read: Solomon Islands signs controversial policing deal with China, upgrades ties with Beijing NATO summit As NATO leaders gather for a summit in Vilnius, they would sought to overcome divisions on Ukraine's membership bid after a deal to lift Turkey's block on Sweden joining the military alliance. The summit will be dominated by the repercussions of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with leaders set to approve NATO's first comprehensive plans since the end of the Cold War to defend against any attack from Moscow. According to the diplomats, the differences were narrowing over Ukraine's push for NATO membership, but NATO members agree that Kyiv cannot join during the war. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia launches air strike on Kyiv ahead of NATO summit

Afghanistan is notoriously famous for its opium poppy cultivation and harvest. Last year, a United Nations report stated that the 2022 opium crop in the nation was the most profitable in years with cultivation up by nearly a third.&nbsp;

The data was also significant as it was the first since the Taliban's return to power in August 2021. The hardline Islamist regime banned all cultivation of opium poppy and all narcotics under strict new laws in April 2022.&nbsp;

But when the ban was announced, the world didn't take it seriously as there were concerns about the nation's dire economic state and the urgent need for financial resources, with the opium trade being a moneymaking source.

The recent trend shows how the Taliban adopted a relatively gradual approach to tackle the drug problem in the country, unlike how they implement sudden and harsh rules when it comes to women and their rights.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-halts-swedish-activities-in-afghanistan-over-heinous-act-of-quran-burning-614341">Taliban halt Swedish activities in Afghanistan over ‘heinous’ act of Quran burning</a>&nbsp;

The results show that the Taliban have been successful at least in this area as there's a significant drop in opium production in Afghanistan. It is a massive feat as the country supplies around 80 per cent of the world's opium. Let's get deeper into this trend to understand the current situation.&nbsp;

Satellite imagery and recent reports show an almost 80 per cent fall in the opium crop in the south and southwestern provinces of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

It was also acknowledged by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in their latest World Drug Report, which highlighted the noteworthy development, but also warned against the attendant risks that this poses for drug smuggling and the increased use of synthetic drugs.&nbsp;

On one side, it is a moment to commend the authorities to be able to curb the production of this illicit drug, but it is also essential to understand the implications of these developments.&nbsp;

The world must focus its attention on how the opium ban will affect Afghanistan and should decode both sides - the economy's and people's livelihoods and the Taliban's control of the country.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-journalist-fired-for-asking-questions-to-pm-shehabz-sharif-about-freedom-of-expression-report-614376">Pak journalist fired for asking questions to PM Shehbaz Sharif about freedom of expression: Report</a>&nbsp;

<h2>What is opium?&nbsp;</h2>

For the unversed, opium is the essential ingredient for manufacturing the street drug heroin, and the class of medical prescription opioids which millions rely on for pain medication worldwide.&nbsp;

In countries such as the United States, opioids have also been increasingly abused, leading to widespread addiction issues. The trade of poppy tar, which is a psychoactive substance in heroin, is very lucrative worldwide.&nbsp;

<h2>Reduction of opium production in Afghanistan&nbsp;</h2>

A report was published by Alcis, a British geographic data firm, in which it was mentioned that there has been a 99 per cent reduction in poppy farming in the southern province of Helmand, considered to be the heart of the opium industry.&nbsp;

David Mansfield, who is an expert on Afghanistan's illicit economy and researcher on the Alcis report, predicted that at least 80 per cent of poppy production will be eradicated this year in the nation.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is it challenging?&nbsp;</h2>

The ban on opium cultivation will impact the farmers if this crisis hits the nation. Now, the Taliban will have to find an alternate source of revenue for the 450,000 people who would have been employed by the opium industry, as well as the $1.3 billion in predicted lost farm income.&nbsp;

The Taliban can be commended for&nbsp;its solid approach in&nbsp;tackling the drug issue in the country as it aspires to get global recognition but has it led to massive concerns for farmers?&nbsp;

<h2>Taliban's history with opium production&nbsp;</h2>

Analysts have said that the Taliban were mainly successful in eradicating poppy agriculture at the end of their first administration from 1996 to 2001. But when they were deposed by the US-led invasion in 2001, they began funding their resistance with a crop levy.&nbsp;

In 2016, opium production generated over half of the Taliban fighters' earnings, a report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said.&nbsp;

The UN said that by 2020, which was the last full year of the Western-backed government's authority, around 85 per cent of the world's opium was flowing out of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Moreover, the opiate economy was expected to account for between 9 and 14 per cent of Afghanistan's GDP the following year.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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The southern districts of Kandahar and Helmand have long been the core of production. Last year, a grace period was agreed upon as the ban was announced when the harvest was underway. But after that, the laws have been implemented strictly.&nbsp;

Deputy counter-narcotics minister Abdul Haq Akhund Hamkar told news agency AFP that nearly three thousand hectares of poppy had been destroyed since the start of the season. The report was published this year in May. That figure is a fraction of the 233,000 hectares the UNODC estimated were harvested in 2022.&nbsp;

As quoted by the news agency, Haji Qazi, who is Helmand's counter-narcotics chief, said that the ban "has been implemented to a great extent [without force]", because far less poppy was sown this season.&nbsp;

"When the decree of the supreme leader was announced, most of the people accepted it," he said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Afghanistan is notoriously famous for its opium poppy cultivation and harvest. Last year, a United Nations report stated that the 2022 opium crop in the nation was the most profitable in years with cultivation up by nearly a third.

Afghanistan is notoriously famous for its opium poppy cultivation and harvest. Last year, a United Nations report stated that the 2022 opium crop in the nation was the most profitable in years with cultivation up by nearly a third. The data was also significant as it was the first since the Taliban's return to power in August 2021. The hardline Islamist regime banned all cultivation of opium poppy and all narcotics under strict new laws in April 2022. But when the ban was announced, the world didn't take it seriously as there were concerns about the nation's dire economic state and the urgent need for financial resources, with the opium trade being a moneymaking source. The recent trend shows how the Taliban adopted a relatively gradual approach to tackle the drug problem in the country, unlike how they implement sudden and harsh rules when it comes to women and their rights. Also read: Taliban halt Swedish activities in Afghanistan over ‘heinous’ act of Quran burning The results show that the Taliban have been successful at least in this area as there's a significant drop in opium production in Afghanistan. It is a massive feat as the country supplies around 80 per cent of the world's opium. Let's get deeper into this trend to understand the current situation. Satellite imagery and recent reports show an almost 80 per cent fall in the opium crop in the south and southwestern provinces of Afghanistan. It was also acknowledged by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in their latest World Drug Report, which highlighted the noteworthy development, but also warned against the attendant risks that this poses for drug smuggling and the increased use of synthetic drugs. On one side, it is a moment to commend the authorities to be able to curb the production of this illicit drug, but it is also essential to understand the implications of these developments. The world must focus its attention on how the opium ban will affect Afghanistan and should decode both sides - the economy's and people's livelihoods and the Taliban's control of the country. Also read: Pak journalist fired for asking questions to PM Shehbaz Sharif about freedom of expression: Report What is opium? For the unversed, opium is the essential ingredient for manufacturing the street drug heroin, and the class of medical prescription opioids which millions rely on for pain medication worldwide. In countries such as the United States, opioids have also been increasingly abused, leading to widespread addiction issues. The trade of poppy tar, which is a psychoactive substance in heroin, is very lucrative worldwide. Reduction of opium production in Afghanistan A report was published by Alcis, a British geographic data firm, in which it was mentioned that there has been a 99 per cent reduction in poppy farming in the southern province of Helmand, considered to be the heart of the opium industry. David Mansfield, who is an expert on Afghanistan's illicit economy and researcher on the Alcis report, predicted that at least 80 per cent of poppy production will be eradicated this year in the nation. Why is it challenging? The ban on opium cultivation will impact the farmers if this crisis hits the nation. Now, the Taliban will have to find an alternate source of revenue for the 450,000 people who would have been employed by the opium industry, as well as the $1.3 billion in predicted lost farm income. The Taliban can be commended for its solid approach in tackling the drug issue in the country as it aspires to get global recognition but has it led to massive concerns for farmers? Taliban's history with opium production Analysts have said that the Taliban were mainly successful in eradicating poppy agriculture at the end of their first administration from 1996 to 2001. But when they were deposed by the US-led invasion in 2001, they began funding their resistance with a crop levy. In 2016, opium production generated over half of the Taliban fighters' earnings, a report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said. The UN said that by 2020, which was the last full year of the Western-backed government's authority, around 85 per cent of the world's opium was flowing out of Afghanistan. Moreover, the opiate economy was expected to account for between 9 and 14 per cent of Afghanistan's GDP the following year. Watch this report: × The southern districts of Kandahar and Helmand have long been the core of production. Last year, a grace period was agreed upon as the ban was announced when the harvest was underway. But after that, the laws have been implemented strictly. Deputy counter-narcotics minister Abdul Haq Akhund Hamkar told news agency AFP that nearly three thousand hectares of poppy had been destroyed since the start of the season. The report was published this year in May. That figure is a fraction of the 233,000 hectares the UNODC estimated were harvested in 2022. As quoted by the news agency, Haji Qazi, who is Helmand's counter-narcotics chief, said that the ban "has been implemented to a great extent [without force]", because far less poppy was sown this season. "When the decree of the supreme leader was announced, most of the people accepted it," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: The Taliban's way of halting opium cultivation, trade. What lies ahead?

People were seen enjoying as South Africa's biggest city Johannesburg received rare snowfall in more than a decade on Monday (July 10).&nbsp;

Snow is not something the nation doesn't see, but for Johannesburg, it was out of the common as the city last saw snowfall in August 2012.&nbsp;

Videos and photos shared on social media showed people relishing in the unusual scenes as a layer of bright white snow covered the roads, parks, and more. The fluffy white snowflakes cascaded from the sky, making the city look absolutely stunning.&nbsp;

After the snowfall, the South African Weather Service issued warnings because of the cold front that has struck Gauteng province which contains Johannesburg and the capital Pretoria.&nbsp;

Reuters reported that its photographer saw children making snowballs and snow angels on the school grounds south of Johannesburg in Brackenhurst.&nbsp;

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Snow in Johannesburg today. Very rarely does it snow and only 3 or 4 times a century so much in a day (Ellis Park <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rugby?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rugby</a> stadium) <a href="https://t.co/ILivfa6ItE">pic.twitter.com/ILivfa6ItE</a>
— Alison Geer (@alisonegeer) <a href="https://twitter.com/alisonegeer/status/1678363253607464960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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It's snowing in Johannesburg, South Africa 🌨️🇿🇦 
 
🎥 <a href="https://twitter.com/CityofJoburgZA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CityofJoburgZA</a> <a href="https://t.co/SA40ux5FM2">pic.twitter.com/SA40ux5FM2</a>
— Africa Facts Zone (@AfricaFactsZone) <a href="https://twitter.com/AfricaFactsZone/status/1678380720434061312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heat-related-deaths-in-europe-soared-to-over-61000-during-record-breaking-summer-study-shows-614046">Heat-related deaths in Europe soared to over 61,000 during record-breaking summer, study shows</a>&nbsp;

A resident, Jennifer Banda, told the news agency that she was pregnant the last time it snowed as she got her picture taken on Nelson Mandela Square in the financial district. She said, "Eleven years down the line, it’s exciting that we have snow."&nbsp;

A student, Makondelela Mutchia, said, "I would maybe do things we used to see in cartoons, making snow angels and what not."&nbsp;

Amos Chapoto, who is a technician, said, "As you can see, there’s snow. It’s something that doesn't happen each and every time. It’s just amazing, the weather looks beautiful, you know."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/bees-outgun-humans-in-making-swift-better-decisions-for-things-that-matter-to-them-study-614077">Bees outgun humans in making swift, better decisions for things that matter to them: Study</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Why did it happen?&nbsp;</h2>

Jennifer Fitchett, a University of Witwatersrand professor of physical geography, told South Africa's Times newspaper that the snow had been caused by a surge in humidity, cold temperatures and a cold wind. Fitchett added that the snow was unlikely to last.&nbsp;

She said, "It happens once every 10 years or so. We're not an area that has a lot of snowfall and that’s partly because in winter we have dry conditions. We've got a strong, high-pressure cell which is why we don't have any or very little rain in winter months. And so don't have much moisture in the air."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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People were seen enjoying as South Africa's biggest city Johannesburg received rare snowfall in more than a decade on Monday (July 10). Snow is not something the nation doesn't see, but for Johannesburg, it was out of the common as the city last saw snowfall in August 2012.

People were seen enjoying as South Africa's biggest city Johannesburg received rare snowfall in more than a decade on Monday (July 10). Snow is not something the nation doesn't see, but for Johannesburg, it was out of the common as the city last saw snowfall in August 2012. Videos and photos shared on social media showed people relishing in the unusual scenes as a layer of bright white snow covered the roads, parks, and more. The fluffy white snowflakes cascaded from the sky, making the city look absolutely stunning. After the snowfall, the South African Weather Service issued warnings because of the cold front that has struck Gauteng province which contains Johannesburg and the capital Pretoria. Reuters reported that its photographer saw children making snowballs and snow angels on the school grounds south of Johannesburg in Brackenhurst. Snow in Johannesburg today. Very rarely does it snow and only 3 or 4 times a century so much in a day (Ellis Park #Rugby stadium) pic.twitter.com/ILivfa6ItE — Alison Geer (@alisonegeer) July 10, 2023 × It's snowing in Johannesburg, South Africa 🌨️🇿🇦 🎥 @CityofJoburgZA pic.twitter.com/SA40ux5FM2 — Africa Facts Zone (@AfricaFactsZone) July 10, 2023 × Also read: Heat-related deaths in Europe soared to over 61,000 during record-breaking summer, study shows A resident, Jennifer Banda, told the news agency that she was pregnant the last time it snowed as she got her picture taken on Nelson Mandela Square in the financial district. She said, "Eleven years down the line, it’s exciting that we have snow." A student, Makondelela Mutchia, said, "I would maybe do things we used to see in cartoons, making snow angels and what not." Amos Chapoto, who is a technician, said, "As you can see, there’s snow. It’s something that doesn't happen each and every time. It’s just amazing, the weather looks beautiful, you know." Also read: Bees outgun humans in making swift, better decisions for things that matter to them: Study Why did it happen? Jennifer Fitchett, a University of Witwatersrand professor of physical geography, told South Africa's Times newspaper that the snow had been caused by a surge in humidity, cold temperatures and a cold wind. Fitchett added that the snow was unlikely to last. She said, "It happens once every 10 years or so. We're not an area that has a lot of snowfall and that’s partly because in winter we have dry conditions. We've got a strong, high-pressure cell which is why we don't have any or very little rain in winter months. And so don't have much moisture in the air." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'It's just amazing': Johannesburg residents witness rare snowfall in 11 years

Relentless rains in North India have caused significant loss of life and property. At least 42 people have been reported dead in the last 72 hours due to torrential rains. The water level of the Yamuna River in New Delhi has breached the danger mark, triggering an orange alert.

Torrential rains cause devastation in north India, at least 42 dead

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