Climate change is no more a battle for the future rather it is present and it is affecting our daily lives.

What will happen when our glaciers melt?

Glaciers' melting: New ecosystems might emerge

<p>Hurricane Hilary, a category four storm, is hurtling towards Mexico's Baja California peninsula on Friday, announced the United States's National Hurricane Center (NHC) as it issued its first ever tropical storm watch for California.</p>

<p>The US government agency also warned of a possibility of life-threatening and possibly catastrophic floods.</p>

<h2><strong>Storm advisory</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>"Life-threatening and potentially catastrophic flooding are likely over much of Baja California and Southern California this weekend and early next week," said the Miami-based agency in its latest advisory.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-snake-season-begins-early-as-high-temperatures-hit-east-coast-grim-warning-for-citizens-626638">Australia: Snake season begins early as high temperatures hit east coast</a></strong></p>

<p>The NHC as per a Reuters report said that it expects the powerful storm to near Mexico's popular Cabo San Lucas resort city by late Friday. The US government agency said that the hurricane should weaken before hitting the US West Coast this weekend. However, they warned that nevertheless, it will bring dangerous rains.</p>

<p>"If you've got weekend plans, it's probably time to start altering those plans," said NHC Deputy Director Jamie Rhome, as per the report. Rhome warned that the area from San Diego to Los Angeles and Las Vegas faced flood risks, in particular Palm Springs area will be at high risk when the storm hits this weekend.</p>

<h2><strong>Category 4 storm</strong></h2>

<p>As per the NHC advisory, hurricane Hilary was moving West northwest at nearly 12 mph or 19 kilometres per hour. The storm is packing a maximum sustained wind of nearly 130 mph or 215 kilometres per hour. It was upgraded to a category 4 storm overnight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rhome said that while icy waters of the California coastline typically weaken hurricanes and tropical storms, "this system is expected to hold on to its strength because it will be moving fast."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wildfires-cause-fresh-evacuations-in-western-canada-626847">Wildfire spreads in Western Canada's British Columbia, triggers fresh evacuation</a></strong></p>

<p>He also said that California and Southern Nevada face the risk of severe flooding caused by up to 10 inches or 25.4 centimetres of rainfall. The NHC, as per Reuters, warned a storm surge could cause coastal flooding and destructive waves along Mexico's Baja California peninsula.</p>

<p>After a record-breaking summer heat wave, hurricane Hilary's heavy rainfall is expected to hit California Nevada and neighbouring Arizona. In July, Phoenix, Arizona, both endured a month-long stretch of temperatures that exceeded 110 degrees Fahrenheit or 43 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the National Weather Service, the region was trapped under a "heat dome" of stagnant air. In mid-July, California's Death Valley desert hit temperatures exceeding 128 Fahrenheit or 53 degrees Celsius. This was among the highest temperatures recorded on the planet in the past 90 years.<br />
<br />
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Hurricane Hilary, a category four storm, is hurtling towards Mexico's Baja California peninsula on Friday, announced the United States's National Hurricane Center (NHC) as it issued its first ever tropical storm watch for California.

Hurricane Hilary, a category four storm, is hurtling towards Mexico's Baja California peninsula on Friday, announced the United States's National Hurricane Center (NHC) as it issued its first ever tropical storm watch for California. The US government agency also warned of a possibility of life-threatening and possibly catastrophic floods. Storm advisory "Life-threatening and potentially catastrophic flooding are likely over much of Baja California and Southern California this weekend and early next week," said the Miami-based agency in its latest advisory. Also read | Australia: Snake season begins early as high temperatures hit east coast The NHC as per a Reuters report said that it expects the powerful storm to near Mexico's popular Cabo San Lucas resort city by late Friday. The US government agency said that the hurricane should weaken before hitting the US West Coast this weekend. However, they warned that nevertheless, it will bring dangerous rains. "If you've got weekend plans, it's probably time to start altering those plans," said NHC Deputy Director Jamie Rhome, as per the report. Rhome warned that the area from San Diego to Los Angeles and Las Vegas faced flood risks, in particular Palm Springs area will be at high risk when the storm hits this weekend. Category 4 storm As per the NHC advisory, hurricane Hilary was moving West northwest at nearly 12 mph or 19 kilometres per hour. The storm is packing a maximum sustained wind of nearly 130 mph or 215 kilometres per hour. It was upgraded to a category 4 storm overnight. Rhome said that while icy waters of the California coastline typically weaken hurricanes and tropical storms, "this system is expected to hold on to its strength because it will be moving fast." Also read | Wildfire spreads in Western Canada's British Columbia, triggers fresh evacuation He also said that California and Southern Nevada face the risk of severe flooding caused by up to 10 inches or 25.4 centimetres of rainfall. The NHC, as per Reuters, warned a storm surge could cause coastal flooding and destructive waves along Mexico's Baja California peninsula. After a record-breaking summer heat wave, hurricane Hilary's heavy rainfall is expected to hit California Nevada and neighbouring Arizona. In July, Phoenix, Arizona, both endured a month-long stretch of temperatures that exceeded 110 degrees Fahrenheit or 43 degrees Celsius. As per the National Weather Service, the region was trapped under a "heat dome" of stagnant air. In mid-July, California's Death Valley desert hit temperatures exceeding 128 Fahrenheit or 53 degrees Celsius. This was among the highest temperatures recorded on the planet in the past 90 years. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hurricane Hilary strengthens to category 4 storm, US hurricane centre issues 'catastrophic flood' warning

Temperatures are rising, and people in West Asia are baking in this heat, so are their livelihoods. Water bodies in Iraq are drying up, hitting the fishing and tourism industries. Ghadi francis gets you the story

Iraq bears the brunt of climate change

<p>A powerful 6.3 earthquake struck Colombia's capital Bogotá on Thursday. The massive tremor caused alarm and panic among residents, due to which one woman reportedly fell to her death. However, apart from this,&nbsp;as per reports, no significant injuries or property damage have been recorded as of now.</p>

<h2><strong>Casualties</strong></h2>

<p>AFP, quoting its journalists present at the scene, reported&nbsp;that as the ground shook, buildings trembled, and sirens blared, thousands of residents rushed onto the streets. Many of them were observed reaching for their phones to call loved ones and check on&nbsp;their safety.</p>

<p>Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Bogotá's mayor, Claudia Lopez, reassured the public and urged them to remain calm and cautious.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-braces-for-impact-as-hurricane-hilary-approaches-after-hitting-mexico-626538">California braces for impact as Hurricane Hilary approaches after hitting Mexico</a></strong></p>

<p>"Strong tremor in Bogotá. Let's remain calm and cautious. Please take all precautions against possible aftershocks. Calm, serenity and caution."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="es">Hasta el momento solo tenemos reportes de personas atrapadas en ascensores y otros eventos menores. Nada de gravedad. <a href="https://twitter.com/BomberosBogota?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BomberosBogota</a> atendiendo los sitios reportados.<br />
Calma y serenidad. Mantener la precaución porque pueden seguirse dando réplicas.<br />
Ya instalado PMU Distrital. <a href="https://t.co/ARujKztUXm">https://t.co/ARujKztUXm</a></p>
— Claudia López Hernández (@ClaudiaLopez) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClaudiaLopez/status/1692226958250160633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Lopez said that the city had only received reports of minor incidents.</p>

<p>There were only "reports of people trapped in elevators and other minor events. Nothing serious," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In another post, Lopez reported that "the only serious incident reported was the throwing of a woman in Madelena from the tenth floor of an apartment building, apparently due to nervous disorder."</p>

<p>Authorities have&nbsp;issued an advisory for the citizens, asking them to "re-enter your homes and workplaces." The post also lists what is to be done in case of another tremor.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="es">El PMU Distrital da de momento por superado el incidente del fuerte temblor. Mil gracias por mantener la serenidad. No hubo afectaciones materiales graves. Fue más el susto.<br />
<br />
Sigan por favor en este momento estas instrucciones:<br />
1. Reingresen a sus viviendas y lugares de trabajo.… <a href="https://t.co/e96mX0n5MQ">pic.twitter.com/e96mX0n5MQ</a></p>
— Claudia López Hernández (@ClaudiaLopez) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClaudiaLopez/status/1692252324461162809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>As per AFP, reports of a landslide have emerged from Villavicencio. Furthermore, as per an update by the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management, only windows of homes and businesses were affected in El Calvario, the town closest to the epicentre.&nbsp;Colombia's civil defence agency reported that&nbsp;throughout the entire municipality of Calvario,&nbsp;residents were evacuated.</p>

<h2><strong>Magnitude, epicentre, and more</strong></h2>

<p>While the Colombian Geological Survey (CGS), says that the earthquake had a magnitude of 6.1, the US Geological Survey (USGS) recorded it slightly higher at 6.3.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-new-military-recruitment-campaign-calls-on-citizens-to-overcome-their-fears-626540">Ukraine's new military recruitment campaign calls on citizens to 'overcome their fears'</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the Colombian agency, the quake occurred at 12:04 pm (1704 GMT). Its epicentre was located in the town of El Calvario in central Colombia, approximately 40 kilometres southeast of Bogotá.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shortly after the massive tremor struck Bogotá, an aftershock of magnitude 5.9 followed, as reported by the CGS on social media. As per Reuters, another&nbsp;aftershock was measured at 4.8 magnitude.</p>

<p>Netizens reported that the earthquake was also felt in nearby cities, including Villavicencio, Bucaramanga, Tunja, and Ibague. All of these are located in the vicinity of the quake's epicentre.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A powerful 6.3 earthquake struck Colombia's capital Bogotá on Thursday. The massive tremor caused alarm and panic among residents, due to which one woman reportedly fell to her death.

A powerful 6.3 earthquake struck Colombia's capital Bogotá on Thursday. The massive tremor caused alarm and panic among residents, due to which one woman reportedly fell to her death. However, apart from this, as per reports, no significant injuries or property damage have been recorded as of now. Casualties AFP, quoting its journalists present at the scene, reported that as the ground shook, buildings trembled, and sirens blared, thousands of residents rushed onto the streets. Many of them were observed reaching for their phones to call loved ones and check on their safety. Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Bogotá's mayor, Claudia Lopez, reassured the public and urged them to remain calm and cautious. Also read | California braces for impact as Hurricane Hilary approaches after hitting Mexico "Strong tremor in Bogotá. Let's remain calm and cautious. Please take all precautions against possible aftershocks. Calm, serenity and caution." Hasta el momento solo tenemos reportes de personas atrapadas en ascensores y otros eventos menores. Nada de gravedad. @BomberosBogota atendiendo los sitios reportados. Calma y serenidad. Mantener la precaución porque pueden seguirse dando réplicas. Ya instalado PMU Distrital. https://t.co/ARujKztUXm — Claudia López Hernández (@ClaudiaLopez) August 17, 2023 × Lopez said that the city had only received reports of minor incidents. There were only "reports of people trapped in elevators and other minor events. Nothing serious," she said. In another post, Lopez reported that "the only serious incident reported was the throwing of a woman in Madelena from the tenth floor of an apartment building, apparently due to nervous disorder." Authorities have issued an advisory for the citizens, asking them to "re-enter your homes and workplaces." The post also lists what is to be done in case of another tremor. El PMU Distrital da de momento por superado el incidente del fuerte temblor. Mil gracias por mantener la serenidad. No hubo afectaciones materiales graves. Fue más el susto. Sigan por favor en este momento estas instrucciones: 1. Reingresen a sus viviendas y lugares de trabajo.… pic.twitter.com/e96mX0n5MQ — Claudia López Hernández (@ClaudiaLopez) August 17, 2023 × As per AFP, reports of a landslide have emerged from Villavicencio. Furthermore, as per an update by the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management, only windows of homes and businesses were affected in El Calvario, the town closest to the epicentre. Colombia's civil defence agency reported that throughout the entire municipality of Calvario, residents were evacuated. Magnitude, epicentre, and more While the Colombian Geological Survey (CGS), says that the earthquake had a magnitude of 6.1, the US Geological Survey (USGS) recorded it slightly higher at 6.3. Also read | Ukraine's new military recruitment campaign calls on citizens to 'overcome their fears' As per the Colombian agency, the quake occurred at 12:04 pm (1704 GMT). Its epicentre was located in the town of El Calvario in central Colombia, approximately 40 kilometres southeast of Bogotá. Shortly after the massive tremor struck Bogotá, an aftershock of magnitude 5.9 followed, as reported by the CGS on social media. As per Reuters, another aftershock was measured at 4.8 magnitude. Netizens reported that the earthquake was also felt in nearby cities, including Villavicencio, Bucaramanga, Tunja, and Ibague. All of these are located in the vicinity of the quake's epicentre. (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.

6.3 magnitude earthquake shakes Colombia, one casualty reported

Frankfurt airport, Germany's biggest airport, flooded to the brim after a massive storm hits the capital. How many have been affected? Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Germany's biggest airport hit by a severe storm

<p>A judge in Montana, United States,&nbsp;who heard the country’s first constitutional climate trial earlier this year, has&nbsp;ruled in favour of the more than a dozen young plaintiffs, on Monday (August 14). This comes after 16 young people filed a lawsuit that sought to hold the officials in the state accountable for their inaction on climate change, in the US state.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the court order</strong></h2>

<p>In the order, District Court Judge Kathy Seeley ruled that Montana’s continued development of fossil fuels violates a clause in the state constitution that guarantees its citizens the right to a “clean and healthful environment.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Plaintiffs have a fundamental constitutional right to a clean and healthful environment, which includes climate as part of the environmental life-support system,” said Seeley&nbsp;in more than a 100-page ruling after the case closed on June 20.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Montana is one of several states that have explicit environmental guarantees in their state constitution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the verdict will not stop the state from burning fossil fuels, it will reverse a recently passed state law that prevented government agencies from considering the impacts of greenhouse gases when issuing permits for development projects involving fossil fuels.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What was&nbsp;the case about?</strong></h2>

<p>The case, Held v. Montana, has been closely watched as similar litigations have been filed across the country. The lawsuit centres around the state’s constitutional right to a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-montana-youth-take-us-state-to-court-in-landmark-trial-over-climate-change-604101">“clean and healthful environment,”</a> and was filed by plaintiffs whose ages range from five to 22.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Roger Sullivan, an attorney for the young plaintiffs, from the non-profit Our Children’s Trust, had alleged that Montana’s ongoing permitting of polluting fuels like coal and gas is contributing to a global crisis, including, “heat, drought, wildfires, air pollution, violent storms, loss of wildlife, watching glaciers melt.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also argued that because of these effects, the young people he represents are disproportionately suffering psychologically and healthily. While some plaintiffs testified, the trial also witnessed the rare instance in which climate experts were questioned on the witness stand.</p>

<h2><strong>Lawyers are ‘over the moon’</strong></h2>

<p>“My initial reaction is, we’re pretty over the moon,” said Melissa Hornbein, an attorney who represented the plaintiffs in the 2020 lawsuit, according to The Guardian. She added, “It’s a very good order.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the attorneys for the plaintiffs called the court’s decision a “sweeping win”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Julia Olson, chief legal counsel and executive director of Our Children’s Trust said, “Today, for the first time in US history, a court ruled on the merits of a case that the government violated the constitutional rights of children through laws and actions that promote fossil fuels, ignore climate change, and disproportionately imperil young people.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “This is a huge win for Montana, for youth, for democracy, and for our climate. More rulings like this will certainly come.” Notably, the non-profit has brought similar youth-led constitutional climate lawsuits in four other states, including Hawaii, which is set to go to trial in June 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
<br />
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A judge in Montana, United States, who heard the country’s first constitutional climate trial earlier this year, has ruled in favour of the more than a dozen young plaintiffs, on Monday (August 14).

A judge in Montana, United States, who heard the country’s first constitutional climate trial earlier this year, has ruled in favour of the more than a dozen young plaintiffs, on Monday (August 14). This comes after 16 young people filed a lawsuit that sought to hold the officials in the state accountable for their inaction on climate change, in the US state. About the court order In the order, District Court Judge Kathy Seeley ruled that Montana’s continued development of fossil fuels violates a clause in the state constitution that guarantees its citizens the right to a “clean and healthful environment.” “Plaintiffs have a fundamental constitutional right to a clean and healthful environment, which includes climate as part of the environmental life-support system,” said Seeley in more than a 100-page ruling after the case closed on June 20. Notably, Montana is one of several states that have explicit environmental guarantees in their state constitution. While the verdict will not stop the state from burning fossil fuels, it will reverse a recently passed state law that prevented government agencies from considering the impacts of greenhouse gases when issuing permits for development projects involving fossil fuels. What was the case about? The case, Held v. Montana, has been closely watched as similar litigations have been filed across the country. The lawsuit centres around the state’s constitutional right to a “clean and healthful environment,” and was filed by plaintiffs whose ages range from five to 22. Roger Sullivan, an attorney for the young plaintiffs, from the non-profit Our Children’s Trust, had alleged that Montana’s ongoing permitting of polluting fuels like coal and gas is contributing to a global crisis, including, “heat, drought, wildfires, air pollution, violent storms, loss of wildlife, watching glaciers melt.” He also argued that because of these effects, the young people he represents are disproportionately suffering psychologically and healthily. While some plaintiffs testified, the trial also witnessed the rare instance in which climate experts were questioned on the witness stand. Lawyers are ‘over the moon’ “My initial reaction is, we’re pretty over the moon,” said Melissa Hornbein, an attorney who represented the plaintiffs in the 2020 lawsuit, according to The Guardian. She added, “It’s a very good order.” In a statement, the attorneys for the plaintiffs called the court’s decision a “sweeping win”. Julia Olson, chief legal counsel and executive director of Our Children’s Trust said, “Today, for the first time in US history, a court ruled on the merits of a case that the government violated the constitutional rights of children through laws and actions that promote fossil fuels, ignore climate change, and disproportionately imperil young people.” It added, “This is a huge win for Montana, for youth, for democracy, and for our climate. More rulings like this will certainly come.” Notably, the non-profit has brought similar youth-led constitutional climate lawsuits in four other states, including Hawaii, which is set to go to trial in June 2024. (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.

US: Court rules in favour of Montana youth in landmark climate trial

<p>The leaders of Europe's major insurance companies have raised concerns about the growing political resistance in the United States over aggressive policy steps required to combat climate change. This, the UN-backed group of insurers called the Net Zero Insurance Alliance says,&nbsp;has put their ability to collaborate in combating climate change at risk.</p>

<p>The Net-Zero Insurance Alliance was established in 2021 to collectively address carbon emissions related to underwriting.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/explainer-why-the-insurance-industry-is-taking-over-100-billion-hit-from-climate-change-losses-550991">Explainer: Why the insurance industry is taking over $100 billion hit from climate change losses?</a></strong></p>

<p>However, this initiative's future has been uncertain since May this year&nbsp;when a letter from 23 Republican state Attorneys General&nbsp;suggested that the alliance's joint targets might violate antitrust laws, following which&nbsp;several insurers left the group.</p>

<h2><strong>What was the legal challenge?</strong></h2>

<p>This legal challenge emerged amidst rising opposition among certain Republican politicians who view environmental activism as detrimental to the oil and gas industry and the broader economy.</p>

<p>Several states, including Florida and Texas, have implemented legislation to discourage environmental, social, and governance investing and financing with target to deter harms on oil and gas industry.</p>

<p>Axa, a prominent European insurer, was a founding member of the Net-Zero Insurance Alliance but withdrew in May.</p>

<p>Its chief executive Thomas Buberl told the Financial Times, "My job is to manage insurance and not to deal . . . with 23 attorneys-general in the US."</p>

<p>It was "far more powerful" to act collectively on climate, he said, but he added: "You also have to at some point say to yourself, OK, where are your priorities? Is there a different way of getting to the same result with less hassle?"</p>

<p>Christian Mumenthaler, CEO of reinsurer Swiss Re, which also left the alliance in May, echoed Buberl's sentiment.</p>

<p>“It’s clear that in today’s political environment, it remains very difficult: there remains some political risk, some legal risk. Then the question is, OK, for the overall cause, how much is it adding?," Mumenthaler was quoted as saying by Financial Times.</p>

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<p>Explainer: Why the insurance industry is taking over $100 billion hit from climate change losses?</p>


The leaders of Europe's major insurance companies have raised concerns about the growing political resistance in the United States over aggressive policy steps required to combat climate change.

The leaders of Europe's major insurance companies have raised concerns about the growing political resistance in the United States over aggressive policy steps required to combat climate change. This, the UN-backed group of insurers called the Net Zero Insurance Alliance says, has put their ability to collaborate in combating climate change at risk. The Net-Zero Insurance Alliance was established in 2021 to collectively address carbon emissions related to underwriting. Also read | Explainer: Why the insurance industry is taking over $100 billion hit from climate change losses? However, this initiative's future has been uncertain since May this year when a letter from 23 Republican state Attorneys General suggested that the alliance's joint targets might violate antitrust laws, following which several insurers left the group. What was the legal challenge? This legal challenge emerged amidst rising opposition among certain Republican politicians who view environmental activism as detrimental to the oil and gas industry and the broader economy. Several states, including Florida and Texas, have implemented legislation to discourage environmental, social, and governance investing and financing with target to deter harms on oil and gas industry. Axa, a prominent European insurer, was a founding member of the Net-Zero Insurance Alliance but withdrew in May. Its chief executive Thomas Buberl told the Financial Times, "My job is to manage insurance and not to deal . . . with 23 attorneys-general in the US." It was "far more powerful" to act collectively on climate, he said, but he added: "You also have to at some point say to yourself, OK, where are your priorities? Is there a different way of getting to the same result with less hassle?" Christian Mumenthaler, CEO of reinsurer Swiss Re, which also left the alliance in May, echoed Buberl's sentiment. “It’s clear that in today’s political environment, it remains very difficult: there remains some political risk, some legal risk. Then the question is, OK, for the overall cause, how much is it adding?," Mumenthaler was quoted as saying by Financial Times. 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. Explainer: Why the insurance industry is taking over $100 billion hit from climate change losses?

Republican-led backlash over climate change raises concern among European insurers

<p>The Biden administration has taken a significant step in endorsing technology designed to extract carbon dioxide, a major contributor to global warming, from the atmosphere with initial tranche of funding of up to $1.2 billion. The administration has chosen the first recipients of an overall substantial $3.5 billion fund dedicated to advancing the development of these innovative projects, identified by scientists as essential tools in mitigating the most severe impacts of climate change.</p>

<p>One of these projects, which will receive funding from the initial tranche of&nbsp;$1.2 billion, is led by a subsidiary of Occidental Petroleum Corp. This carbon-removal hub is proposed for Kleberg County, Texas.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-brics-summit-russian-envoy-babushkin-advocates-trading-in-national-currencies-624722">Ahead of BRICS summit, Russian envoy Babushkin advocates trading in national currencies</a></p>

<p>The other project involves collaborations between Climeworks, Battelle Memorial Institute, and Heirloom Carbon Technologies Inc. and is proposed for Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana. These endeavours mark the initial wave of investments announced by the Energy Department.</p>

<h2><strong>Giant vacuum for carbon removal</strong></h2>

<p>Energy Secretary Jennifer M. Granholm reportedly said that the technology at the heart of these projects can be likened to a giant vacuum capable of extracting decades' worth of carbon pollution directly from the sky.</p>

<p>Granholm said, “If we deploy this at scale, this technology can help us make serious headway toward our net-zero emission goals.”</p>

<p>Once operational, these projects are projected to eliminate over 2 million metric tonnes of carbon dioxide annually from the atmosphere, equivalent to the environmental impact of nearly half a million gas-powered cars being taken off the roads each year.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-indian-govt-proposes-revamp-of-colonial-era-laws-heres-what-will-change-624710">Indian govt proposes revamp of colonial-era laws, here’s what will change</a></p>

<p>The Energy Department revealed plans to unveil additional projects in the upcoming year.</p>

<p>Moreover, the Energy Department has selected 19 projects for smaller "award negotiations." Among these, Chevron Corp.'s division in San Ramon, California, has proposed a direct air capture hub, which has been allocated $3 million for development.</p>

<p>Additionally, Carbon Capture Inc. has secured $12.5 million for the Wyoming Regional Direct Air Capture Hub, further expanding the scope of carbon removal efforts.</p>

<h2><strong>Challenges</strong></h2>

<p>Despite its potential, the industry is still in its nascent stage and is reportedly characterised by high costs and substantial energy requirements for operation. Critics expressed&nbsp;concerns about the unproven efficacy of carbon capture technology in combatting climate change, reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | No-Confidence Motion: PM Modi's NDA government wins trust vote in Parliament&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Currently, approximately 18 direct air capture projects are operational worldwide. However, the projects announced by the Energy Department signify the inaugural commercial-scale deployment of this technology in the United States.</p>

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The Biden administration has taken a significant step in endorsing technology designed to extract carbon dioxide, a major contributor to global warming, from the atmosphere with initial tranche of funding of up to $1.

The Biden administration has taken a significant step in endorsing technology designed to extract carbon dioxide, a major contributor to global warming, from the atmosphere with initial tranche of funding of up to $1.2 billion. The administration has chosen the first recipients of an overall substantial $3.5 billion fund dedicated to advancing the development of these innovative projects, identified by scientists as essential tools in mitigating the most severe impacts of climate change. One of these projects, which will receive funding from the initial tranche of $1.2 billion, is led by a subsidiary of Occidental Petroleum Corp. This carbon-removal hub is proposed for Kleberg County, Texas. Also Read | Ahead of BRICS summit, Russian envoy Babushkin advocates trading in national currencies The other project involves collaborations between Climeworks, Battelle Memorial Institute, and Heirloom Carbon Technologies Inc. and is proposed for Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana. These endeavours mark the initial wave of investments announced by the Energy Department. Giant vacuum for carbon removal Energy Secretary Jennifer M. Granholm reportedly said that the technology at the heart of these projects can be likened to a giant vacuum capable of extracting decades' worth of carbon pollution directly from the sky. Granholm said, “If we deploy this at scale, this technology can help us make serious headway toward our net-zero emission goals.” Once operational, these projects are projected to eliminate over 2 million metric tonnes of carbon dioxide annually from the atmosphere, equivalent to the environmental impact of nearly half a million gas-powered cars being taken off the roads each year. Also Read | Indian govt proposes revamp of colonial-era laws, here’s what will change The Energy Department revealed plans to unveil additional projects in the upcoming year. Moreover, the Energy Department has selected 19 projects for smaller "award negotiations." Among these, Chevron Corp.'s division in San Ramon, California, has proposed a direct air capture hub, which has been allocated $3 million for development. Additionally, Carbon Capture Inc. has secured $12.5 million for the Wyoming Regional Direct Air Capture Hub, further expanding the scope of carbon removal efforts. Challenges Despite its potential, the industry is still in its nascent stage and is reportedly characterised by high costs and substantial energy requirements for operation. Critics expressed concerns about the unproven efficacy of carbon capture technology in combatting climate change, reports said. WATCH | No-Confidence Motion: PM Modi's NDA government wins trust vote in Parliament × Currently, approximately 18 direct air capture projects are operational worldwide. However, the projects announced by the Energy Department signify the inaugural commercial-scale deployment of this technology in the United States. 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. ×

US invests $1.2 billion into carbon-sucking projects in major push to battle global warming

<p>At least 36 people died after the catastrophic wildfires ravaged the resort city of Lahaina on Hawaii's Maui island, in the United States. Thousands of people have been impacted, with the majority being displaced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid dire state, United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (August 10) declared the Hawaii wildfires a "major disaster". The president unblocked federal funds for the island of Maui.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A White House statement said: "Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the State of Hawaii and ordered federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The White House said that the president "expressed his deep condolences for the lives lost and vast destruction of land and property". &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-at-least-36-killed-in-wildfires-on-hawaiis-maui-island-624146">At least 36 killed in devastating wildfires on Hawaiian island</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>How has the situation gotten so worse?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Reports have mentioned that the brushfires on Maui's west coast broke out Tuesday (August 8) and rapidly engulfed the seaside town of Lahaina, a popular tourist attraction.&nbsp;The fire has been fueled by high winds from Hurricane Dora passing to the south — across the Pacific Ocean hundreds of miles south of the Hawaiian islands.</p>

<p>The National Weather Service said that the powerful winds were generated by the hurricane, which&nbsp;has been classified as Category 4 by the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Heavy wind gusts above 60 miles per hour tore through Maui.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a post shared on X, previously known as Twitter, The National Weather Service said on Sunday that "while Hurricane Dora passes well south with no direct impacts here, the strong pressure gradient between it &amp; the high pressure to the north creates a threat of damaging winds &amp; fire weather (due to ongoing dry conditions) from early Mon to Wed."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">While well to the south of the Hawaiian Islands, Hurricane Dora is creating strong winds across the Islands which are creating dangerous fire conditions. <a href="https://t.co/12ut6VYhbx">https://t.co/12ut6VYhbx</a></p>
— National Weather Service (@NWS) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWS/status/1689260853063716864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Rescue operation underway&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The deadly fire forced some residents to jump&nbsp;into the ocean. US-based media outlets have mentioned that the US Coast Guard said crews had rescued over a dozen people who jumped into the Lahaina harbour in an effort to escape the flames and smoke.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency said in a statement that the fires have put homes, businesses and utilities at risk, as well as more than 35,000 people on the island of Maui. The fires have burned more than 2,000 acres of land.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, officials said that more than 270 buildings have been damaged or destroyed in the seriously affected Lahaina. In a statement, the Maui county government said: "As the firefighting efforts continue, 36 total fatalities have been discovered today amid the active Lahaina fire." &nbsp;</p>

<p>"High, gusty winds and dry conditions put much of Hawai'i under a Red Flag Warning that ended late Wednesday, and more fires were burning on the Big Island and Maui," according to the state emergency agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Much of Lahaina on Maui has been destroyed and hundreds of local families have been displaced," said Governor Josh Green of the 12,000-resident historic town.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-17-dead-as-boat-carrying-rohingyas-sinks-in-bay-of-bengal-624319">At least 17 dead as boat carrying Rohingyas sinks in Bay of Bengal</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>According to a statement on the County of Maui's official Facebook page, visitors to Maui were asked by county officials to leave the island "as soon as possible". Several buses have been organised to shuttle travellers from a hotel to Kahului Aiport in trips that started Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The county said: "Due to limited resources in this time of crisis, visitors with vehicles or any means of transportation are being asked to leave Lahaina and Maui as soon as possible."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;What is solar sail? How can it revolutionise space travel?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>What's the reason behind the Maui fire?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>US media reports mentioned that the exact cause of the blaze is still unknown, but as quoted by the Scientific American, Robert Bohlin, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service's (NWS's) office in Honolulu, said that the devastating Maui fires are the product of a confluence of weather conditions — strong winds, dry vegetation and low humidity. The stage was set by drought conditions across various parts of the state's islands, especially Maui.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted Bohlin said, "This is the time of year when we start to dry out." As per the US Drought Monitor, the typical dryness has been exacerbated by weaker-than-normal trade winds that have kept the rain away. it further said that drought dries out grasses and other vegetation, making them more likely to ignite in a wildfire.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Several <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/wildfires?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#wildfires</a> are burning across parts of Hawaii this week, fueled in part by strong winds from Hurricane Dora passing to the south. <a href="https://twitter.com/NOAA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NOAA</a>'s GOESWest was tracking the hotspots and smoke from the fires as they burned across parts of Maui and the Big Island yesterday evening.… <a href="https://t.co/WzApS2ddTi">pic.twitter.com/WzApS2ddTi</a></p>
— NOAA Satellites (@NOAASatellites) <a href="https://twitter.com/NOAASatellites/status/1689308183301627904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>How do wildfires usually start?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The National Park Service said in a report that almost 85 per cent of wildfires in the United States are caused by humans. The report mentioned that fires that are sparked this way can result accidentally from leaving campfires unattended, burning debris, using various kinds of equipment and discarding cigarettes improperly. The agency said that intentional acts of arson are another source of human-caused wildfires.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides man-made things, there are some natural reasons as well such as lightning and volcanic activities. As per reports, the officials note that lightning strikes are a much more common catalyst.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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At least 36 people died after the catastrophic wildfires ravaged the resort city of Lahaina on Hawaii's Maui island, in the United States. Thousands of people have been impacted, with the majority being displaced.

At least 36 people died after the catastrophic wildfires ravaged the resort city of Lahaina on Hawaii's Maui island, in the United States. Thousands of people have been impacted, with the majority being displaced. Amid dire state, United States President Joe Biden on Thursday (August 10) declared the Hawaii wildfires a "major disaster". The president unblocked federal funds for the island of Maui. A White House statement said: "Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the State of Hawaii and ordered federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires." The White House said that the president "expressed his deep condolences for the lives lost and vast destruction of land and property". Also read: At least 36 killed in devastating wildfires on Hawaiian island How has the situation gotten so worse? Reports have mentioned that the brushfires on Maui's west coast broke out Tuesday (August 8) and rapidly engulfed the seaside town of Lahaina, a popular tourist attraction. The fire has been fueled by high winds from Hurricane Dora passing to the south — across the Pacific Ocean hundreds of miles south of the Hawaiian islands. The National Weather Service said that the powerful winds were generated by the hurricane, which has been classified as Category 4 by the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Heavy wind gusts above 60 miles per hour tore through Maui. In a post shared on X, previously known as Twitter, The National Weather Service said on Sunday that "while Hurricane Dora passes well south with no direct impacts here, the strong pressure gradient between it & the high pressure to the north creates a threat of damaging winds & fire weather (due to ongoing dry conditions) from early Mon to Wed." While well to the south of the Hawaiian Islands, Hurricane Dora is creating strong winds across the Islands which are creating dangerous fire conditions. https://t.co/12ut6VYhbx — National Weather Service (@NWS) August 9, 2023 × Rescue operation underway The deadly fire forced some residents to jump into the ocean. US-based media outlets have mentioned that the US Coast Guard said crews had rescued over a dozen people who jumped into the Lahaina harbour in an effort to escape the flames and smoke. The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency said in a statement that the fires have put homes, businesses and utilities at risk, as well as more than 35,000 people on the island of Maui. The fires have burned more than 2,000 acres of land. On Wednesday, officials said that more than 270 buildings have been damaged or destroyed in the seriously affected Lahaina. In a statement, the Maui county government said: "As the firefighting efforts continue, 36 total fatalities have been discovered today amid the active Lahaina fire." "High, gusty winds and dry conditions put much of Hawai'i under a Red Flag Warning that ended late Wednesday, and more fires were burning on the Big Island and Maui," according to the state emergency agency. "Much of Lahaina on Maui has been destroyed and hundreds of local families have been displaced," said Governor Josh Green of the 12,000-resident historic town. Also read: At least 17 dead as boat carrying Rohingyas sinks in Bay of Bengal According to a statement on the County of Maui's official Facebook page, visitors to Maui were asked by county officials to leave the island "as soon as possible". Several buses have been organised to shuttle travellers from a hotel to Kahului Aiport in trips that started Wednesday afternoon. The county said: "Due to limited resources in this time of crisis, visitors with vehicles or any means of transportation are being asked to leave Lahaina and Maui as soon as possible." Watch: What is solar sail? How can it revolutionise space travel? × What's the reason behind the Maui fire? US media reports mentioned that the exact cause of the blaze is still unknown, but as quoted by the Scientific American, Robert Bohlin, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service's (NWS's) office in Honolulu, said that the devastating Maui fires are the product of a confluence of weather conditions — strong winds, dry vegetation and low humidity. The stage was set by drought conditions across various parts of the state's islands, especially Maui. As quoted Bohlin said, "This is the time of year when we start to dry out." As per the US Drought Monitor, the typical dryness has been exacerbated by weaker-than-normal trade winds that have kept the rain away. it further said that drought dries out grasses and other vegetation, making them more likely to ignite in a wildfire. Several #wildfires are burning across parts of Hawaii this week, fueled in part by strong winds from Hurricane Dora passing to the south. @NOAA's GOESWest was tracking the hotspots and smoke from the fires as they burned across parts of Maui and the Big Island yesterday evening.… pic.twitter.com/WzApS2ddTi — NOAA Satellites (@NOAASatellites) August 9, 2023 × How do wildfires usually start? The National Park Service said in a report that almost 85 per cent of wildfires in the United States are caused by humans. The report mentioned that fires that are sparked this way can result accidentally from leaving campfires unattended, burning debris, using various kinds of equipment and discarding cigarettes improperly. The agency said that intentional acts of arson are another source of human-caused wildfires. Besides man-made things, there are some natural reasons as well such as lightning and volcanic activities. As per reports, the officials note that lightning strikes are a much more common catalyst. (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 | What's behind Maui wildfires? How has the situation gotten so worse?

With climate change causing extreme weather patterns across the globe Norway is experiencing its worst floods in fifty years. More than 4000 people have been evacuated from southern parts of the country, with homes and businesses submerged or swept away by landslides.

Strong winds, intense rains and landslides hit Norway

<p>The European Union's climate observatory confirmed Tuesday (August 8) that July was the hottest month ever recorded on Earth. The agency issued a warning of dire consequences. This comes after last month's alert that it was on track to become the world's hottest month on record.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The world is witnessing extreme climatic conditions as some regions are battered with heavy rains and subsequent floods, and other parts of the world are facing extreme heat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Samantha Burgess, who is Deputy Director of the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service, said: "It has not been this warm, combining observational records and paleoclimate records, for the last 120,000 years."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The global average temperature for July 2023 is confirmed to be the highest on record for any month -- the month is estimated to have been around 1.5 degrees warmer than the average for 1850 to 1900," said Burgess.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/as-ice-in-antarctica-reaches-new-lows-scientists-warn-no-quick-fix-623581">As ice in Antarctica melts to new lows, scientists warn 'no quick fix'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The official report noted that ERA5 data from the Copernicus Climate Change Service shows that July 2023 was the hottest month on record globally and broke several records within the month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after the hottest June on record and a series of extreme weather events, including heatwaves in Europe, North America and Asia, and wildfires in Canada and Greece.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the report, the month started with the daily global mean surface air temperature record being broken for four days in a row, from July 3-6.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It further mentioned that all days throughout the rest of July were hotter than the previous record of 16.80°C, set on 13 August 2016, making the 29 days from July 3-31 the hottest 29 days on record.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-unearth-a-248-million-years-old-marine-reptile-that-shared-this-curious-similarity-to-whales-623510">Scientists unearth 248 million-years-old marine reptile that shared this curious similarity to whales</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The hottest day was July 6, when the global average temperature reached 17.08°C, and the values recorded on&nbsp;July 5 and 7 were within 0.01°C of this.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the report by Copernicus Climate Change Service, temperatures also temporarily exceeded the 1.5°C threshold above the preindustrial level during the first and third weeks of the month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, Carlo Buontempo, Director of C3S, comments: "Record-breaking temperatures are part of the trend of drastic increases in global temperatures. Anthropogenic emissions are ultimately the main driver of these rising temperatures."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Buontempo added, "July's record is unlikely to remain isolated this year, C3S' seasonal forecasts indicate that over land areas temperatures are likely to be well above average."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The European Union's climate observatory confirmed Tuesday (August 8) that July was the hottest month ever recorded on Earth. The agency issued a warning of dire consequences.

The European Union's climate observatory confirmed Tuesday (August 8) that July was the hottest month ever recorded on Earth. The agency issued a warning of dire consequences. This comes after last month's alert that it was on track to become the world's hottest month on record. The world is witnessing extreme climatic conditions as some regions are battered with heavy rains and subsequent floods, and other parts of the world are facing extreme heat. Meanwhile, Samantha Burgess, who is Deputy Director of the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service, said: "It has not been this warm, combining observational records and paleoclimate records, for the last 120,000 years." "The global average temperature for July 2023 is confirmed to be the highest on record for any month -- the month is estimated to have been around 1.5 degrees warmer than the average for 1850 to 1900," said Burgess. Also read: As ice in Antarctica melts to new lows, scientists warn 'no quick fix' The official report noted that ERA5 data from the Copernicus Climate Change Service shows that July 2023 was the hottest month on record globally and broke several records within the month. This comes after the hottest June on record and a series of extreme weather events, including heatwaves in Europe, North America and Asia, and wildfires in Canada and Greece. According to the report, the month started with the daily global mean surface air temperature record being broken for four days in a row, from July 3-6. It further mentioned that all days throughout the rest of July were hotter than the previous record of 16.80°C, set on 13 August 2016, making the 29 days from July 3-31 the hottest 29 days on record. Also read: Scientists unearth 248 million-years-old marine reptile that shared this curious similarity to whales The hottest day was July 6, when the global average temperature reached 17.08°C, and the values recorded on July 5 and 7 were within 0.01°C of this. According to the report by Copernicus Climate Change Service, temperatures also temporarily exceeded the 1.5°C threshold above the preindustrial level during the first and third weeks of the month. As quoted, Carlo Buontempo, Director of C3S, comments: "Record-breaking temperatures are part of the trend of drastic increases in global temperatures. Anthropogenic emissions are ultimately the main driver of these rising temperatures." Buontempo added, "July's record is unlikely to remain isolated this year, C3S' seasonal forecasts indicate that over land areas temperatures are likely to be well above average." (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.

EU scientists say July was world's hottest on record

The international whaling commission has issued an extinction alert for the endangered vaquita porpoise. This is as the Vaquita's population is estimated to have shrunk to less than a dozen.

Extinction alert issued for Mexico's threatened vaquita porpoise

<p>As the Earth heats up, sea ice in the Antarctic region has fallen to a record low this year. On Tuesday, scientists warned that as the global temperatures rise, there is no quick fix to reverse the damage done.</p>

<p>In a study published on Tuesday (August 8) researchers reported that the continent's minimum summer ice cover, which last year had dipped to a low of below two million square kilometres (or 772,000 square miles) has now fallen further.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Lowest of lows</strong></h2>

<p>The study published in the journal Frontiers in Environmental Science found that in February, for the first time since satellite monitoring started keeping a track of Antarctica's summer ice, levels have reached this low.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-unearth-a-248-million-years-old-marine-reptile-that-shared-this-curious-similarity-to-whales-623510">Scientists unearth 248 million-years-old marine reptile that shared this curious similarity to whales</a></strong></p>

<p>In 2023, the sea ice minimum reached levels 20 per cent lower than the average levels recorded in the last 40 years. This, as per Tim Naish, director of the Antarctic Research Centre at New Zealand's Victoria University of Wellington, equals to sea loss nearly 10 times the area of New Zealand. Naish was not a part of this study.</p>

<p>"In some cases we are getting close to tipping points, which once crossed will lead to irreversible changes with unstoppable consequences for future generations," he added.</p>

<p>As per Caroline Holmes, one of the study's co-authors, "It's going to take decades if not centuries for these things to recover. There's no quick fix to replacing this ice."</p>

<p>"It will certainly take a long time, even if it's possible," said Holmes, a polar climate scientist at British Antarctic Survey.</p>

<h2><strong>Study findings</strong></h2>

<p>The study says that the burning of fossil fuels is a driving force behind Global warming. This has made Antarctica vulnerable to extreme events, and the impact is "virtually certain" to get worse, it claims.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/newly-discovered-skull-in-china-baffles-scientists-is-it-a-new-lineage-of-humans-623180">Newly-discovered skull in China baffles scientists. Is it yet another lineage of humans?</a></strong></p>

<p>While it is certain that climate change will "lead to increases in the size and frequency" of heatwaves, ice shelf collapses and declines in sea ice in Antarctica, the precise impact has been hard to measure.</p>

<p>Scientists, as per Reuters, have struggled to measure the exact extent to which global warming is affecting the thickness of Antarctic ice. However, as per Martin Siegert, a glaciologist at the University of Exeter and a co-author of the study, it's "scientifically reasonable" to assume that extreme events are going to get more frequent.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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As the Earth heats up, sea ice in the Antarctic region has fallen to a record low this year. On Tuesday, scientists warned that as the global temperatures rise, there is no quick fix to reverse the damage done.

As the Earth heats up, sea ice in the Antarctic region has fallen to a record low this year. On Tuesday, scientists warned that as the global temperatures rise, there is no quick fix to reverse the damage done. In a study published on Tuesday (August 8) researchers reported that the continent's minimum summer ice cover, which last year had dipped to a low of below two million square kilometres (or 772,000 square miles) has now fallen further. Lowest of lows The study published in the journal Frontiers in Environmental Science found that in February, for the first time since satellite monitoring started keeping a track of Antarctica's summer ice, levels have reached this low. Also read | Scientists unearth 248 million-years-old marine reptile that shared this curious similarity to whales In 2023, the sea ice minimum reached levels 20 per cent lower than the average levels recorded in the last 40 years. This, as per Tim Naish, director of the Antarctic Research Centre at New Zealand's Victoria University of Wellington, equals to sea loss nearly 10 times the area of New Zealand. Naish was not a part of this study. "In some cases we are getting close to tipping points, which once crossed will lead to irreversible changes with unstoppable consequences for future generations," he added. As per Caroline Holmes, one of the study's co-authors, "It's going to take decades if not centuries for these things to recover. There's no quick fix to replacing this ice." "It will certainly take a long time, even if it's possible," said Holmes, a polar climate scientist at British Antarctic Survey. Study findings The study says that the burning of fossil fuels is a driving force behind Global warming. This has made Antarctica vulnerable to extreme events, and the impact is "virtually certain" to get worse, it claims. Also read | Newly-discovered skull in China baffles scientists. Is it yet another lineage of humans? While it is certain that climate change will "lead to increases in the size and frequency" of heatwaves, ice shelf collapses and declines in sea ice in Antarctica, the precise impact has been hard to measure. Scientists, as per Reuters, have struggled to measure the exact extent to which global warming is affecting the thickness of Antarctic ice. However, as per Martin Siegert, a glaciologist at the University of Exeter and a co-author of the study, it's "scientifically reasonable" to assume that extreme events are going to get more frequent. (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.

As ice in Antarctica melts to new lows, scientists warn 'no quick fix'

With the onset of eL nino, countries around the world are battling intense heatwaves. And with rising temperatures, the developing El Nino phenomenon is expected to have negative impacts on global agriculture. This, according to the world meteorological organisation.

WMO warns of El Nino's impacts on global agriculture

<p>A dramatic incident occurred in Alaska as a two-storey house succumbed to the Mendenhall River's force after unprecedented glacial flooding in the city.</p>

<p>A video capturing the moment of destruction shows the house being swept away by the raging river.</p>

<p>According to reports from Sky News, the floodwaters caused significant damage to at least two buildings and eroded riverbanks over the weekend. However, by Monday (August 7), the water levels started receding. No injuries or fatalities were reported during this natural disaster.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Understanding the cause</strong></h2>

<p>The video, shared on Instagram by Elopement Photographers, provides insights into the factors leading to this calamity. As explained in the caption, the flood was triggered by the melting of the "Suicide Glacier" during the summer months.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ocean-waves-are-getting-bigger-as-earth-gets-warm-study-says-622044">Ocean waves are getting bigger as Earth gets warm, study says</a></p>

<p>The melted water accumulates in the "Suicide Basin" just above the Mendenhall Glacier. At some point, the natural ice dam breaks, releasing a massive surge of water accumulated over the summer. This event marks the worst flood of its kind in the history of Juneau, Alaska.</p>

<h2><strong>Evacuation orders and response</strong></h2>

<p>In response to the flooding, city officials issued evacuation orders for residents.</p>

<p>The National Weather Service (NWS) also received reports of large trees collapsing into the Mendenhall River near Juneau on Saturday night as water levels continued to rise, further eroding the banks.</p>

<h2><strong>Glacial outburst flooding and climate change</strong></h2>

<p>Glacial outburst flooding occurs when trapped water finds an escape route through cracks in thinning ice dams. This phenomenon has become more prevalent worldwide due to climate change.</p>

<p>As global temperatures rise, glacial melt becomes accelerated, leading to more frequent and severe flooding events.</p>

<p>Scientists have raised concerns that climate change is driving extreme weather events like the glacial flooding witnessed in Alaska. The record-breaking heatwaves experienced in North America, Europe, and China in July have been linked to human-induced climate change&nbsp;playing an "absolutely overwhelming" role in their intensity and frequency.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;New IPCC report on climate change</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Similar incidents and consequences</strong></h2>

<p>Last year, Pakistan faced the consequences of climate change-driven glacial melt and heavy monsoon rains, resulting in extensive flooding. The disaster damaged crops and infrastructure, causing the loss of at least 1,700 lives.</p>

<p>As climate change continues to impact our planet, the urgency to address its implications becomes ever more critical.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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A dramatic incident occurred in Alaska as a two-storey house succumbed to the Mendenhall River's force after unprecedented glacial flooding in the city. A video capturing the moment of destruction shows the house being swept away by the raging river.

A dramatic incident occurred in Alaska as a two-storey house succumbed to the Mendenhall River's force after unprecedented glacial flooding in the city. A video capturing the moment of destruction shows the house being swept away by the raging river. According to reports from Sky News, the floodwaters caused significant damage to at least two buildings and eroded riverbanks over the weekend. However, by Monday (August 7), the water levels started receding. No injuries or fatalities were reported during this natural disaster. Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elopement Photographers | Micah + Lindsay (@twowildhearts) × Understanding the cause The video, shared on Instagram by Elopement Photographers, provides insights into the factors leading to this calamity. As explained in the caption, the flood was triggered by the melting of the "Suicide Glacier" during the summer months. Also read | Ocean waves are getting bigger as Earth gets warm, study says The melted water accumulates in the "Suicide Basin" just above the Mendenhall Glacier. At some point, the natural ice dam breaks, releasing a massive surge of water accumulated over the summer. This event marks the worst flood of its kind in the history of Juneau, Alaska. Evacuation orders and response In response to the flooding, city officials issued evacuation orders for residents. The National Weather Service (NWS) also received reports of large trees collapsing into the Mendenhall River near Juneau on Saturday night as water levels continued to rise, further eroding the banks. Glacial outburst flooding and climate change Glacial outburst flooding occurs when trapped water finds an escape route through cracks in thinning ice dams. This phenomenon has become more prevalent worldwide due to climate change. As global temperatures rise, glacial melt becomes accelerated, leading to more frequent and severe flooding events. Scientists have raised concerns that climate change is driving extreme weather events like the glacial flooding witnessed in Alaska. The record-breaking heatwaves experienced in North America, Europe, and China in July have been linked to human-induced climate change playing an "absolutely overwhelming" role in their intensity and frequency. Also watch | New IPCC report on climate change Similar incidents and consequences Last year, Pakistan faced the consequences of climate change-driven glacial melt and heavy monsoon rains, resulting in extensive flooding. The disaster damaged crops and infrastructure, causing the loss of at least 1,700 lives. As climate change continues to impact our planet, the urgency to address its implications becomes ever more critical. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Watch: Double-storey Alaska house collapses into river amid record glacial flooding

<p>The 25th <strong>World Scout Jamboree </strong>event is being held in South Korea’s Buan County from August 1 to 12, but&nbsp;for the first time ever, extreme weather conditions have ruined the joy for its more than 40,000 participants.</p>

<p>Of them, more than 37,000 are scouts, mostly teenagers, who arrived earlier in South Korea from 156 countries around the globe.</p>

<p>In the initial days, extreme heatwaves piled misery on the event’s organisers as well as the participants. The soaring temperatures even prompted the parents of the participants to raise multiple complaints with the organisers.</p>

<p>It also led to the early withdrawal of American and some European contingents, including the British, from the event.</p>

<p>And now, South Korea’s weather agency has reported that the campsite could fall in the way of the raging typhoon ‘Khanun.’ The typhoon is expected to hit South Korea Thursday morning (August 10). Some areas in the south, including Buan, could be affected as early as Wednesday evening.</p>

<p>The storm is approaching South Korea after wreaking havoc on Japan’s Okinawa, killing at least one and injuring 70 others, along with knocking out power of hundreds of homes and disrupting flights and railways.</p>

<h2><strong>Evacuation ordered from the campsite</strong></h2>

<p>South Korean authorities were rushing more than 1,000 buses to the campsite in Buan to evacuate the scouts to safer locations across the country, including the capital Seoul.</p>

<p>South Korea’s Interior Minister Lee Sang-min on Tuesday (August 8) said that more than 128 sites have been earmarked for accommodating the visiting scouts.</p>

<p>“The local governments are checking the cleanliness of the accommodations and toilets and are preparing medical measures so that participants can have a safe and comfortable stay as soon as they arrive,” Lee said.</p>

<p>Evacuation started at 9 am local time, with a bus carrying Taiwan contingents from the campsite. Police said one helicopter and more than 250 police cars will escort the participants to safety.</p>

<p>Earlier, hundreds of American scouts were rushed to Camp Humphreys, a major US military base 70km (45 miles) south of Seoul, after a prolonged week of extreme heatwaves.</p>

<p>It was also reported in European media that 1,500 scouts from Sweden, Norway and Denmark were also to be moved to the US base.</p>

<p>"This is the first time in more than 100 years of World Scout Jamborees that we have had to face such compounded challenges," Ahmad Alhendawi, Secretary-General of the World Organization of the Scout Movement, said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>South Korean authorities apologise for the disruption</strong></h2>

<p>The governor of North Jeolla province, where the event is taking place, has expressed apologies to the participants for causing concerns. He mentioned that efforts have been made to enhance sanitary conditions, including improvements to toilet facilities. Additionally, numerous water trucks and air conditioners have been deployed to ensure participants remain comfortable.</p>

<p>Kim Gi-hyeon, the leader of South Korea's ruling People Power Party, also issued a public apology on Monday. He acknowledged the event's less-than-smooth execution and proposed an investigation to assess the appropriate use of taxpayers' funds in the event's preparations.</p>

<p>A meeting of organisers is scheduled for Saturday to deliberate on whether to proceed, cancel, or reduce the scale of the event, as reported by South Korea's Yonhap news agency.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-lok-sabha-passes-digital-personal-data-protection-bill-insights-on-privacy-and-centres-authority-623342"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Explained | Lok Sabha passes Digital Personal Data Protection Bill. All you need to know</strong></a></p>

<p>However, Minister Lee Sang-min said the government was looking for alternative locations to hold the events.</p>

<p>Gender equality minister Kim Hyun-sook, whose department is running the event, also assured that the event was still continuing. “I can say that it is the location that is only changing because of the natural disaster, but it is still continuing," Kim said.</p>

<p>She also added that officials are trying to arrange new cultural events and activities for the scouts before they leave, including a possible K-pop concert at a Seoul soccer stadium on Friday to go with the closing ceremony.</p>

<h2><strong>Extreme weather continues to batter South Korea</strong></h2>

<p>Asia continues to grapple with severe weather conditions, as South Korea and Japan witness casualties due to the scorching heat. Both nations have issued alerts in response.</p>

<p>On August 1, the South Korean government escalated its heat alert to the highest level, a step not taken since 2019. This week, certain regions in South Korea experienced temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 Celsius), intensified by elevated humidity levels.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Japan, South Korea to link radars via US systems</strong></p>

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<p>The toll from heat-related incidents in South Korea has reached at least 23 since late May, as estimated by the country's fire authorities. Among these cases, two fatalities occurred on August 1, involving elderly individuals engaged in outdoor agricultural activities.</p>

<p>This summer's death count surpasses that of the corresponding period in the previous year, marking more than a threefold increase, as reported by South Korea's Yonhap News Agency.</p>

<p>President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea has called for a comprehensive strategy to prevent heat-related ailments, especially among the elderly and outdoor workers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The 25th World Scout Jamboree event is being held in South Korea’s Buan County from August 1 to 12, but for the first time ever, extreme weather conditions have ruined the joy for its more than 40,000 participants.

The 25th World Scout Jamboree event is being held in South Korea’s Buan County from August 1 to 12, but for the first time ever, extreme weather conditions have ruined the joy for its more than 40,000 participants. Of them, more than 37,000 are scouts, mostly teenagers, who arrived earlier in South Korea from 156 countries around the globe. In the initial days, extreme heatwaves piled misery on the event’s organisers as well as the participants. The soaring temperatures even prompted the parents of the participants to raise multiple complaints with the organisers. It also led to the early withdrawal of American and some European contingents, including the British, from the event. And now, South Korea’s weather agency has reported that the campsite could fall in the way of the raging typhoon ‘Khanun.’ The typhoon is expected to hit South Korea Thursday morning (August 10). Some areas in the south, including Buan, could be affected as early as Wednesday evening. The storm is approaching South Korea after wreaking havoc on Japan’s Okinawa, killing at least one and injuring 70 others, along with knocking out power of hundreds of homes and disrupting flights and railways. Evacuation ordered from the campsite South Korean authorities were rushing more than 1,000 buses to the campsite in Buan to evacuate the scouts to safer locations across the country, including the capital Seoul. South Korea’s Interior Minister Lee Sang-min on Tuesday (August 8) said that more than 128 sites have been earmarked for accommodating the visiting scouts. “The local governments are checking the cleanliness of the accommodations and toilets and are preparing medical measures so that participants can have a safe and comfortable stay as soon as they arrive,” Lee said. Evacuation started at 9 am local time, with a bus carrying Taiwan contingents from the campsite. Police said one helicopter and more than 250 police cars will escort the participants to safety. Earlier, hundreds of American scouts were rushed to Camp Humphreys, a major US military base 70km (45 miles) south of Seoul, after a prolonged week of extreme heatwaves. It was also reported in European media that 1,500 scouts from Sweden, Norway and Denmark were also to be moved to the US base. "This is the first time in more than 100 years of World Scout Jamborees that we have had to face such compounded challenges," Ahmad Alhendawi, Secretary-General of the World Organization of the Scout Movement, said in a statement. South Korean authorities apologise for the disruption The governor of North Jeolla province, where the event is taking place, has expressed apologies to the participants for causing concerns. He mentioned that efforts have been made to enhance sanitary conditions, including improvements to toilet facilities. Additionally, numerous water trucks and air conditioners have been deployed to ensure participants remain comfortable. Kim Gi-hyeon, the leader of South Korea's ruling People Power Party, also issued a public apology on Monday. He acknowledged the event's less-than-smooth execution and proposed an investigation to assess the appropriate use of taxpayers' funds in the event's preparations. A meeting of organisers is scheduled for Saturday to deliberate on whether to proceed, cancel, or reduce the scale of the event, as reported by South Korea's Yonhap news agency. Also read: Explained | Lok Sabha passes Digital Personal Data Protection Bill. All you need to know However, Minister Lee Sang-min said the government was looking for alternative locations to hold the events. Gender equality minister Kim Hyun-sook, whose department is running the event, also assured that the event was still continuing. “I can say that it is the location that is only changing because of the natural disaster, but it is still continuing," Kim said. She also added that officials are trying to arrange new cultural events and activities for the scouts before they leave, including a possible K-pop concert at a Seoul soccer stadium on Friday to go with the closing ceremony. Extreme weather continues to batter South Korea Asia continues to grapple with severe weather conditions, as South Korea and Japan witness casualties due to the scorching heat. Both nations have issued alerts in response. On August 1, the South Korean government escalated its heat alert to the highest level, a step not taken since 2019. This week, certain regions in South Korea experienced temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 Celsius), intensified by elevated humidity levels. Watch: Japan, South Korea to link radars via US systems × The toll from heat-related incidents in South Korea has reached at least 23 since late May, as estimated by the country's fire authorities. Among these cases, two fatalities occurred on August 1, involving elderly individuals engaged in outdoor agricultural activities. This summer's death count surpasses that of the corresponding period in the previous year, marking more than a threefold increase, as reported by South Korea's Yonhap News Agency. President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea has called for a comprehensive strategy to prevent heat-related ailments, especially among the elderly and outdoor workers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Explained: How extreme weather ruined World Scout Jamboree in South Korea 

The economic Fallout of climate change that could impact Nations worldwide is that you know climate change of course it is having far-reaching impacts on one and all according to a study Rising carbon emissions may lead to Soaring debt servicing costs for 59 countries within the next decade right and as the world grapples with the consequences of unchecked climate change researchers want of potential credit score downgrades as well for major players like China India the United States and Canada the implications are dire with higher costs of borrowing phonations translating into increased corporate debt the economic damage caused by climate change is already evident with recent heat waves shaving off 0.6 percent points from Global output while Insurance giant Allianz sounds the alarm rating agencies have been cautious in quantifying the risks posed by climate change in their assessments however a collaborative study by the University of East Anglia and the University of Cambridge employs AI models and climate economic projections to create a climate adjusted rating system now in the wake of a worst case scenario with Rising emissions Global debt servicing costs could surge into the hundreds of billions of dollars developing nations with lower credit scores.

Unchecked climate change to cost nations billion in debt

Temperatures are soaring across Europe this week and the experts are calling this heat wave Cerberus the three-headed Hound of Hell in Greek mythology. The temperatures are around 40 degrees Celsius in the countries of Italy, Spain, Greece and Croatia but the question is why has Europe become a hot furnace?

Europe wildfires destroy homes and force evacuation | WION Climate Tracker

<p>The economic fallout of climate change could impact nations worldwide. Rising carbon emissions may lead to soaring debt servicing costs for 59 countries within the next decade as the world grapples with the consequences of unchecked climate change, states a recent research report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers warn of potential credit score downgrades for major players like China, India, the United States, and Canada. The implications are dire, with higher borrowing costs for nations translating into increased corporate debt.</p>

<p>The economic damage caused by climate change is already evident, with recent heat waves shaving off 0.6 per cent of global output. While insurance giant Allianz sounds the alarm, rating agencies have been cautious in quantifying the risks posed by climate change in their assessments.</p>

<p>However, a collaborative study by the University of East Anglia and the University of Cambridge, through the use of AI models and climate economic projections, has created a ‘climate-adjusted’ rating system.</p>

<p>While rating agencies recognize that economies are vulnerable to climate change, they have been cautious in assessing such risks in their ratings exercises due to uncertainty about the potential magnitude of the harm.</p>

<p>The UEA/Cambridge project uses&nbsp;current S&amp;P Global ratings to train artificial intelligence models, which are then coupled with climate economic models and S&amp;P's own natural catastrophe risk assessments to develop new ratings for alternative climate scenarios.</p>

<p>If the world manages to meet the Paris Climate Agreement's aim of keeping temperatures below two degrees Celsius, sovereign credit ratings would experience little impact in the short term and very minor long-term repercussions, according to the simulation.</p>

<p>However, a worst-case scenario of high emissions, on the other hand, would result in greater global debt servicing expenses, amounting to hundreds of billions of dollars in current money, according to the model.</p>

<p>Developing nations with lower credit scores may bear the brunt of the physical impacts of climate change. Yet, even nations with the highest credit rankings are at risk of severe downgrades due to the potential steep fall they would experience.&nbsp;</p>

<p>(<em>Inputs form Reuters)</em></p>

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The economic fallout of climate change could impact nations worldwide. Rising carbon emissions may lead to soaring debt servicing costs for 59 countries within the next decade as the world grapples with the consequences of unchecked climate change, states a recent research report.

The economic fallout of climate change could impact nations worldwide. Rising carbon emissions may lead to soaring debt servicing costs for 59 countries within the next decade as the world grapples with the consequences of unchecked climate change, states a recent research report. Researchers warn of potential credit score downgrades for major players like China, India, the United States, and Canada. The implications are dire, with higher borrowing costs for nations translating into increased corporate debt. The economic damage caused by climate change is already evident, with recent heat waves shaving off 0.6 per cent of global output. While insurance giant Allianz sounds the alarm, rating agencies have been cautious in quantifying the risks posed by climate change in their assessments. However, a collaborative study by the University of East Anglia and the University of Cambridge, through the use of AI models and climate economic projections, has created a ‘climate-adjusted’ rating system. While rating agencies recognize that economies are vulnerable to climate change, they have been cautious in assessing such risks in their ratings exercises due to uncertainty about the potential magnitude of the harm. The UEA/Cambridge project uses current S&P Global ratings to train artificial intelligence models, which are then coupled with climate economic models and S&P's own natural catastrophe risk assessments to develop new ratings for alternative climate scenarios. If the world manages to meet the Paris Climate Agreement's aim of keeping temperatures below two degrees Celsius, sovereign credit ratings would experience little impact in the short term and very minor long-term repercussions, according to the simulation. However, a worst-case scenario of high emissions, on the other hand, would result in greater global debt servicing expenses, amounting to hundreds of billions of dollars in current money, according to the model. Developing nations with lower credit scores may bear the brunt of the physical impacts of climate change. Yet, even nations with the highest credit rankings are at risk of severe downgrades due to the potential steep fall they would experience. (Inputs form Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Climate change hurts global economy: 59 countries will face massive debt burden in next 10 years

<p>The death toll in northern China due to heavy rains and floods&nbsp;rose to at least 30 after storm Doksuri, a former super typhoon, slammed the capital Beijing and surrounding regions. This comes after 10 people were killed due to floods in a city near Beijing, officials said Saturday (August 5). Millions of people have been evacuated while officials, in parts of China, continue to struggle to deal with the aftermath of one of the strongest storms in years.</p>

<h2><strong>Death toll and damage</strong></h2>

<p>At least 10 people were killed in Baoding, reported local officials in the town which is about 150 kilometres away from the capital adding that 18 people were missing. Since Doksuri, a former super typhoon,&nbsp;hit mainland China last Friday, it has led to the most severe rains in the region since records began 140 years ago.</p>

<p>As of Saturday, torrential rains continue to batter northeast China and provinces bordering Russia and North Korea. Some cities were in the midst of an ongoing clean-up operation after the overwhelming rainfall which destroyed infrastructure and flooded entire districts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Friday, China’s Ministry of Emergency Management reported that natural disasters caused 147 deaths or disappearances due to heavy rains and floods. Additionally, 142 of the deaths or disappearances recorded in July were caused by flooding or geological disasters.</p>

<p>The remaining five deaths or disappearances were due to other natural disasters such as drought, it added. The report also noted the collapse and destruction of more than 2,300 houses has caused direct economic losses amounted to $2.2 billion (15.8 billion yuan).</p>

<h2><strong>‘Red alert’ remains in Beijing, millions evacuated</strong></h2>

<p>A “red alert” which was issued last week, remained in force in Beijing due to “geological risks” such as landslides linked to the bad weather. Meanwhile, around 1.54 million people had been evacuated, on Saturday morning, from at-risk areas in north China’s Hebei province, on Saturday morning, reported Xinhua.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to state media reports, at least 15,000 residents were moved out of the city of Shulan, where one death and four people were reported missing. Images and videos from Shulan showed collapsed bridges and damaged roads across the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Officials, on Saturday, also warned about sinkholes and mudslides in the Fangshan and Mentougou outer districts of the capital. While an official also told the state media that floodwaters in Hebei could take up to a month to recede.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Around 100,000 people were evacuated from Zhuozhou to the southwest of Beijing which is a sixth of its population. In Baoding prefecture, which also includes Zhuozhou, officials have reported the collapse of more than 4,000 houses and damage to nearly 300 bridges with direct economic losses reaching nearly $2.4 billion (17 billion yuan) as of Saturday.</p>

<h2><strong>Climate change and extreme weather events in China</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, China also recorded its highest temperature of more than <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-records-522-celsius-temperature-in-arid-northwest-616575">52 degrees Celsius</a> just last month with millions being affected by extreme weather events across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“China has suffered unprecedented extreme heatwaves since last year...This year, there are record-breaking high temperatures in Northern China,” Ma Jun, director of the Beijing-based NGO the Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “These heatwaves are linked to global warming, and this is what most climate scientists around the world tend to agree.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The death toll in northern China due to heavy rains and floods rose to at least 30 after storm Doksuri, a former super typhoon, slammed the capital Beijing and surrounding regions.

The death toll in northern China due to heavy rains and floods rose to at least 30 after storm Doksuri, a former super typhoon, slammed the capital Beijing and surrounding regions. This comes after 10 people were killed due to floods in a city near Beijing, officials said Saturday (August 5). Millions of people have been evacuated while officials, in parts of China, continue to struggle to deal with the aftermath of one of the strongest storms in years. Death toll and damage At least 10 people were killed in Baoding, reported local officials in the town which is about 150 kilometres away from the capital adding that 18 people were missing. Since Doksuri, a former super typhoon, hit mainland China last Friday, it has led to the most severe rains in the region since records began 140 years ago. As of Saturday, torrential rains continue to batter northeast China and provinces bordering Russia and North Korea. Some cities were in the midst of an ongoing clean-up operation after the overwhelming rainfall which destroyed infrastructure and flooded entire districts. On Friday, China’s Ministry of Emergency Management reported that natural disasters caused 147 deaths or disappearances due to heavy rains and floods. Additionally, 142 of the deaths or disappearances recorded in July were caused by flooding or geological disasters. The remaining five deaths or disappearances were due to other natural disasters such as drought, it added. The report also noted the collapse and destruction of more than 2,300 houses has caused direct economic losses amounted to $2.2 billion (15.8 billion yuan). ‘Red alert’ remains in Beijing, millions evacuated A “red alert” which was issued last week, remained in force in Beijing due to “geological risks” such as landslides linked to the bad weather. Meanwhile, around 1.54 million people had been evacuated, on Saturday morning, from at-risk areas in north China’s Hebei province, on Saturday morning, reported Xinhua. According to state media reports, at least 15,000 residents were moved out of the city of Shulan, where one death and four people were reported missing. Images and videos from Shulan showed collapsed bridges and damaged roads across the city. Officials, on Saturday, also warned about sinkholes and mudslides in the Fangshan and Mentougou outer districts of the capital. While an official also told the state media that floodwaters in Hebei could take up to a month to recede. Around 100,000 people were evacuated from Zhuozhou to the southwest of Beijing which is a sixth of its population. In Baoding prefecture, which also includes Zhuozhou, officials have reported the collapse of more than 4,000 houses and damage to nearly 300 bridges with direct economic losses reaching nearly $2.4 billion (17 billion yuan) as of Saturday. Climate change and extreme weather events in China Notably, China also recorded its highest temperature of more than 52 degrees Celsius just last month with millions being affected by extreme weather events across the country. “China has suffered unprecedented extreme heatwaves since last year...This year, there are record-breaking high temperatures in Northern China,” Ma Jun, director of the Beijing-based NGO the Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs told AFP. He added, “These heatwaves are linked to global warming, and this is what most climate scientists around the world tend to agree.” (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.

Death toll rises to 30 as northern China continues to face storm Doksuri's wrath

<p>Climate activist Greta Thunberg&nbsp;has pulled out of an appearance at the upcoming Edinburgh International Book Festival, citing alleged links of sponsoring firm&nbsp;to the fossil fuel industry.</p>

<p>The annual festival was due to take place on August 13th (Sunday) and Thunberg was due to speak at an event called 'It's Not Too Late To Change The World' at the Edinburgh Playhouse.</p>

<p>However, she said that she would not attend the festival because it recieves sponsorship from the Baillie Gifford investment firm, which she claimed "invests heavily in the fossil fuel industry".</p>

<h2><strong>Greenwashing</strong></h2>

<p>Accusing the fossil fuel industry of "greenwashing" by sponsoring cultural events, Thunberg said she does not want to be associated with it.</p>

<p>"Greenwashing efforts by the fossil fuel industry, including sponsorship of cultural events, allows them to keep the social licence to continue operating."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ocean-temperatures-set-new-record-scientists-warn-were-in-hot-soup-622413">Ocean temperatures set new record, scientists warn we are in hot soup</a></strong></p>

<p>"I cannot and do not want to be associated with events that accept this kind of sponsorship."</p>

<p>To know more about what Greenwashing is, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/big-brands-like-coca-cola-found-guilty-of-greenwashing-what-is-this-and-why-is-it-problematic-493682">click here</a>.</p>

<h2><strong>Baillie Gifford's rebuttal</strong></h2>

<p>Baillie Gifford, which is an investment management firm, as per BBC, has been a sponsor of&nbsp;the Edinburgh book festival for over 19 years.</p>

<p>The company, however, said that it was not a significant fossil fuel investor. It also claims that compared to the market average of 11 per cent,&nbsp;only about two per cent of its clients' money is invested into fossil fuels.</p>

<p>"Of those companies, some have already moved most of their business away from fossil fuels, and many are helping to drive the transition to clean energy," added a company spokesperson.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/degrading-quality-of-water-due-to-heavy-rains-test-paris-readiness-for-olympics-622407">Degrading quality of water due to heavy rains tests Paris' readiness for Olympics</a></strong></p>

<p>"Currently, five per cent of our clients' money is invested in companies whose sole purpose is to develop clean energy solutions," they added.</p>

<p>The director of the book festival, Nick Barley, applauded Thunberg for standing by her principles, but said that the festival too stands by its principles.</p>

<p>"The Book Festival exists to give a platform for debate and discussion around key issues affecting humanity today - including the climate emergency.</p>

<p>"We would not be in a position to provide that platform without the long-term support of organisations such as Baillie Gifford," said Barley as quoted by BBC.</p>

<p>"We strongly believe that Baillie Gifford are part of the solution to the climate emergency. They are early investors in progressive climate positive companies, providing funds to help them grow".</p>

<p>Apologising to people who had purchased the tickets hoping to see the young climate activist, he said they will be refunded in full.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Climate activist Greta Thunberg has pulled out of an appearance at the upcoming Edinburgh International Book Festival, citing alleged links of sponsoring firm to the fossil fuel industry.

Climate activist Greta Thunberg has pulled out of an appearance at the upcoming Edinburgh International Book Festival, citing alleged links of sponsoring firm to the fossil fuel industry. The annual festival was due to take place on August 13th (Sunday) and Thunberg was due to speak at an event called 'It's Not Too Late To Change The World' at the Edinburgh Playhouse. However, she said that she would not attend the festival because it recieves sponsorship from the Baillie Gifford investment firm, which she claimed "invests heavily in the fossil fuel industry". Greenwashing Accusing the fossil fuel industry of "greenwashing" by sponsoring cultural events, Thunberg said she does not want to be associated with it. "Greenwashing efforts by the fossil fuel industry, including sponsorship of cultural events, allows them to keep the social licence to continue operating." Also read | Ocean temperatures set new record, scientists warn we are in hot soup "I cannot and do not want to be associated with events that accept this kind of sponsorship." To know more about what Greenwashing is, click here. Baillie Gifford's rebuttal Baillie Gifford, which is an investment management firm, as per BBC, has been a sponsor of the Edinburgh book festival for over 19 years. The company, however, said that it was not a significant fossil fuel investor. It also claims that compared to the market average of 11 per cent, only about two per cent of its clients' money is invested into fossil fuels. "Of those companies, some have already moved most of their business away from fossil fuels, and many are helping to drive the transition to clean energy," added a company spokesperson. Also read | Degrading quality of water due to heavy rains tests Paris' readiness for Olympics "Currently, five per cent of our clients' money is invested in companies whose sole purpose is to develop clean energy solutions," they added. The director of the book festival, Nick Barley, applauded Thunberg for standing by her principles, but said that the festival too stands by its principles. "The Book Festival exists to give a platform for debate and discussion around key issues affecting humanity today - including the climate emergency. "We would not be in a position to provide that platform without the long-term support of organisations such as Baillie Gifford," said Barley as quoted by BBC. "We strongly believe that Baillie Gifford are part of the solution to the climate emergency. They are early investors in progressive climate positive companies, providing funds to help them grow". Apologising to people who had purchased the tickets hoping to see the young climate activist, he said they will be refunded in full. (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.

Greta Thunberg to skip Edinburgh International Book Festival over 'greenwashing' concerns

<p>In a relentless cascade of record-breaking climate events, our world is hurtling towards a&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0" data-loopstyle="linkonly" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAt00mhwQkQ" id="LPNoLPOWALinkPreview_1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAt00mhwQkQ">gloomy uncertain future</a>. As a climate journalist, I have&nbsp;hard time explaining why this new record is worse than the previous one. At times I am at a loss for words that could encompass the severity and the urgency of the dire situation.</p>

<p>Each passing day heralds a new grim milestone, a foreboding sign of the pall of gloom that looms our planet. The very fabric of our existence is at stake as we teeter on the edge of a precipice, as the warming planet continues to ring alarm bells of impending catastrophic consequences.</p>

<h2><strong>How warming oceans threaten humanity's&nbsp;existence?</strong></h2>

<p>Our planet's&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="1" data-loopstyle="linkonly" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qqvJwxEtpA&amp;pp=ygURd2lvbiBvY2VhbiByZWNvcmQ%3D" id="LPNoLPOWALinkPreview_3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qqvJwxEtpA&amp;pp=ygURd2lvbiBvY2VhbiByZWNvcmQ%3D">oceans have shattered yet another record</a>, as this week they reached an alarming average daily sea surface temperature of 20.96°C, the highest-ever recorded.</p>

<p><img alt="Oceans warming" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ca55d5ca-8f15-4e21-a50e-354176e96a36" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-08-05T183349.227.png" /></p>

<p><em>A ship navigates through floating ice in the Arctic Ocean | Reuters</em><br />
<br />
These&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="2" data-loopstyle="linkonly" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ytSdoSiLkXs" id="LPNoLPOWALinkPreview_6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ytSdoSiLkXs">ever-warming oceans</a>&nbsp;not only intensify the devastating impacts of climate change but also pose a severe threat to weather patterns, marine species, entire ecosystems, and ultimately, our existence.</p>

<p>So why warming oceans is a worrying sign?</p>

<p>Well, they soak up about 6 billion metric tons of carbon from the upper ocean every year. It also produces a staggering 50 per cent of the oxygen we breathe.</p>

<p>It is a mighty absorber, taking in 25 per cent of all carbon dioxide emissions, combating the effects of global warming, and acting as a natural carbon sink. But there is a problem warm waters won't be able to absorb CO2.</p>

<p>So, the dirty gas would remain in the atmosphere longer and will add to global warming. You see it's just an&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="3" data-loopstyle="linkonly" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBXq13Org4s&amp;pp=ygURd2lvbiBvY2VhbiByZWNvcmQ%3D" id="LPNoLPOWALinkPreview_4" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBXq13Org4s&amp;pp=ygURd2lvbiBvY2VhbiByZWNvcmQ%3D">unending vicious cycle</a>.</p>

<h2><b>Current climate patterns: Foretaste of an apocalyptic world&nbsp;</b></h2>

<p>It's not the oceans that are warming. The land too is burning.</p>

<p>We are facing a distressing reality:&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="4" data-loopstyle="linkonly" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOAahVxSwWI&amp;pp=ygURd2lvbiBqdWx5IGhvdHRlc3Q%3D" id="LPNoLPOWALinkPreview_2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOAahVxSwWI&amp;pp=ygURd2lvbiBqdWx5IGhvdHRlc3Q%3D">July 2023 would be recorded in history as the hottest month</a>, since the records began, amplifying the catastrophes that await us collectively.</p>

<p><img alt="Heatwave" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="031524ad-6b2a-44ee-ae4a-fe11e6a12648" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-08-05T183801.171.png" /></p>

<p><em>A Palestinian man cools off during a heat wave, in al-Oja springs near Jericho in the West Bank | Reuters</em></p>

<p>The scorching temperatures bear insidious tidings, a foretaste of an apocalyptic world where once-mild weather patterns metamorphose into erratic and&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="5" data-loopstyle="linkonly" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gjbv_ljicmo" id="LPNoLPOWALinkPreview_7" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gjbv_ljicmo">extreme weather</a>.</p>

<p>While we are only worried for humankind, the planet is slowly evolving from an oasis of life to a modern-day Dante's inferno.</p>

<h2><strong>Ignorance no longer an excuse for climate inaction</strong></h2>

<p>Flora and fauna are writhing under the strain of harsher environments, species watch helplessly as their habitats crumble and ecosystems are annihilated.</p>

<p>The delicate balance that once sustained life's intricate tapestry now teeters on the precipice, imperiled by the relentless rise in global temperatures.</p>

<p>The science is clear: human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels, are the main cause of global warming.</p>

<p>The climate crisis is not a future problem so ignorance can no longer be an excuse. Climate change is a present reality that is affecting every aspect of our existence.&nbsp;In the face of this mounting crisis, world leaders, at best, indulge in lip service when it comes to climate action.</p>

<p>Despite these alarming climate records being shattered one after another, the urgency to address the crisis is met with inaction and complacency.</p>

<p>Referring to the latest report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change,&nbsp;United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said that the era of global warming had ended and that "<a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="6" data-loopstyle="linkonly" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0Lh8rg2RNU&amp;pp=ygUTd2lvbiBnbG9iYWwgYm9pbGluZw%3D%3D" id="LPNoLPOWALinkPreview" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0Lh8rg2RNU&amp;pp=ygUTd2lvbiBnbG9iYWwgYm9pbGluZw%3D%3D">the era of global boiling has arrived</a>".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><b>Specter of irreversible climate change can still be averted</b></h2>

<p>July 2023 is likely to be the hottest month ever recorded, breaking the previous record set in July 2016. Climate change is our planet's greatest existential threat.</p>

<p>As global temperatures climb, widespread shifts in weather systems occur, making events like droughts, hurricanes, and floods more intense and unpredictable.</p>

<p><img alt="China typhoon" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="05e64972-2885-40a6-a4b2-5067134032eb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-08-05T184808.697.png" /></p>

<p><em>A woman holds a baby as rescue workers evacuate residents in China's Hebei province in the aftermath of typhoon Doksuri on&nbsp;August 2, 2023 | Reuters</em></p>

<p>Extreme weather events that may have hit just once in a century are becoming more common now.</p>

<p>However, despite the specter of&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="7" data-loopstyle="linkonly" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gIOvCn7KFCA&amp;pp=ygUTd2lvbiBjbGltYXRlIGNoYW5nZQ%3D%3D" id="LPNoLPOWALinkPreview_5" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gIOvCn7KFCA&amp;pp=ygUTd2lvbiBjbGltYXRlIGNoYW5nZQ%3D%3D">irreversible climate change</a>, it can still be averted, but only through resolute and immediate action.&nbsp;For that, the world needs to first understand that we are facing an existential threat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Governments, industries, and individuals bear the responsibility of forging a unified path.</p>

<p>Urgent and ambitious efforts are needed to slash greenhouse gas emissions, embrace renewable energy sources, and overhaul practices that have brought us to this dangerous cliff.</p>

<p>Nations need to rise above petty politics to enable cooperation and collaboration which would supersede competition as we confront the existential threat that hovers over every corner of the globe.</p>

<p><strong><em>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</em></strong></p>

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In a relentless cascade of record-breaking climate events, our world is hurtling towards a gloomy uncertain future. As a climate journalist, I have hard time explaining why this new record is worse than the previous one.

In a relentless cascade of record-breaking climate events, our world is hurtling towards a gloomy uncertain future. As a climate journalist, I have hard time explaining why this new record is worse than the previous one. At times I am at a loss for words that could encompass the severity and the urgency of the dire situation. Each passing day heralds a new grim milestone, a foreboding sign of the pall of gloom that looms our planet. The very fabric of our existence is at stake as we teeter on the edge of a precipice, as the warming planet continues to ring alarm bells of impending catastrophic consequences. How warming oceans threaten humanity's existence? Our planet's oceans have shattered yet another record, as this week they reached an alarming average daily sea surface temperature of 20.96°C, the highest-ever recorded. A ship navigates through floating ice in the Arctic Ocean | Reuters These ever-warming oceans not only intensify the devastating impacts of climate change but also pose a severe threat to weather patterns, marine species, entire ecosystems, and ultimately, our existence. So why warming oceans is a worrying sign? Well, they soak up about 6 billion metric tons of carbon from the upper ocean every year. It also produces a staggering 50 per cent of the oxygen we breathe. It is a mighty absorber, taking in 25 per cent of all carbon dioxide emissions, combating the effects of global warming, and acting as a natural carbon sink. But there is a problem warm waters won't be able to absorb CO2. So, the dirty gas would remain in the atmosphere longer and will add to global warming. You see it's just an unending vicious cycle. Current climate patterns: Foretaste of an apocalyptic world It's not the oceans that are warming. The land too is burning. We are facing a distressing reality: July 2023 would be recorded in history as the hottest month, since the records began, amplifying the catastrophes that await us collectively. A Palestinian man cools off during a heat wave, in al-Oja springs near Jericho in the West Bank | Reuters The scorching temperatures bear insidious tidings, a foretaste of an apocalyptic world where once-mild weather patterns metamorphose into erratic and extreme weather. While we are only worried for humankind, the planet is slowly evolving from an oasis of life to a modern-day Dante's inferno. Ignorance no longer an excuse for climate inaction Flora and fauna are writhing under the strain of harsher environments, species watch helplessly as their habitats crumble and ecosystems are annihilated. The delicate balance that once sustained life's intricate tapestry now teeters on the precipice, imperiled by the relentless rise in global temperatures. The science is clear: human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels, are the main cause of global warming. The climate crisis is not a future problem so ignorance can no longer be an excuse. Climate change is a present reality that is affecting every aspect of our existence. In the face of this mounting crisis, world leaders, at best, indulge in lip service when it comes to climate action. Despite these alarming climate records being shattered one after another, the urgency to address the crisis is met with inaction and complacency. Referring to the latest report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said that the era of global warming had ended and that "the era of global boiling has arrived". Specter of irreversible climate change can still be averted July 2023 is likely to be the hottest month ever recorded, breaking the previous record set in July 2016. Climate change is our planet's greatest existential threat. As global temperatures climb, widespread shifts in weather systems occur, making events like droughts, hurricanes, and floods more intense and unpredictable. A woman holds a baby as rescue workers evacuate residents in China's Hebei province in the aftermath of typhoon Doksuri on August 2, 2023 | Reuters Extreme weather events that may have hit just once in a century are becoming more common now. However, despite the specter of irreversible climate change, it can still be averted, but only through resolute and immediate action. For that, the world needs to first understand that we are facing an existential threat. Governments, industries, and individuals bear the responsibility of forging a unified path. Urgent and ambitious efforts are needed to slash greenhouse gas emissions, embrace renewable energy sources, and overhaul practices that have brought us to this dangerous cliff. Nations need to rise above petty politics to enable cooperation and collaboration which would supersede competition as we confront the existential threat that hovers over every corner of the globe. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) 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.

Shattered climate records show world is on existential brink

Day after day, country after country, the world is experiencing record-breaking rainfall while temperatures are rising. Extreme weather has now become the new normal. To know more watch this interview with the Senior Strategist for the Center for Climate & Security Sherri Goodman.

Oceans have been absorbing the world's extra heat

If you are in west asia right now, the air might feel hotter than your oven. The heatwave this year is getting cruel, from agriculture to tourism no sector has been left untouched. Ghadi francis gets you a report on the impact of the scorching weather on Jordan's dead sea resorts.

Heatwave hits Jordan's tourism industry | The West Asia Post

<p>Climate Change is steadily contributing to heating up the Earth, and in the latest, scientists have sounded the alarm over ocean temperatures, which as per European Union's climate change service Copernicus have hit their hottest ever recorded temperature.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Beating a 2016 record, the daily global sea surface temperatures have reached 20.96C, which is far above the average for this time of the year, reports BBC. In 2016, a record was set when the naturally occurring El Niño was in full swing.</p>

<h2><strong>Warmer oceans land us in 'hot water'</strong></h2>

<p>Oceans play an important role in the grand scheme of things. They are a vital climate regulator, soaking up heat, producing half the Earth's oxygen and driving weather patterns.</p>

<p>Warmer temperatures can negatively affect these abilities. Water loses some of its ability to absorb carbon dioxide upon heating up, this means that the gas which contributes to warming the planet stays in the atmosphere. This can also accelerate the melting of glaciers, which in turn flow into oceans, finally contributing to rising sea levels.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/move-over-blue-whale-scientists-discover-40-million-year-old-earths-biggest-animal-ever-621809">Not blue whale, this 40mn-year-old animal is largest ever to have lived on Earth</a></strong></p>

<p>Further, hotter ocean water also affects marine life. Fishes and whales are known to move in search of cooler water, which disturbs the food chain. Other species, like sharks, are known to get more aggressive.</p>

<h2><strong>A hot bath or the ocean?</strong></h2>

<p>Talking to BBC, Dr Kathryn Lesneski, who is monitoring a marine heatwave in the Gulf of Mexico for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, compared the water temperatures to a bath.</p>

<p>She said that due to the rising water temperatures, "There is widespread coral bleaching at shallow reefs in Florida and many corals have already died."</p>

<p>Experts, as per BBC, warn that this can also affect fish stocks.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/ocean-temperature-around-florida-reaches-hot-tub-levels-619643" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/ocean-temperature-around-florida-reaches-hot-tub-levels-619643&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi7xZab48KAAxXtafUHHdhpBUU4RhAWegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0jcpOimkeSNexMuMUntLco" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ocean-temperature-around-florida-reaches-hot-tub-levels-619643" target="_blank">Ocean&nbsp;temperature around Florida reaches hot tub levels</a></strong></p>

<p>Dr Matt Frost, from the Plymouth Marine Lab in the UK, said that with pollution and overfishing, "We are putting oceans under more stress than we have done at any point in history."</p>

<h2><strong>Something to be nervous about</strong></h2>

<p>Scientists have expressed their worry about the timing of this latest broken record.</p>

<p>"The fact that we've seen the record now makes me nervous about how much warmer the ocean may get between now and next March," says Dr Samantha Burgess, from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.</p>

<p>As per Burgess, oceans should be at their warmest in March and not August.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Climate change is shifting the oceans' colours: Study</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/climate-change-is-shifting-the-oceans-colours-study-619885/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>This latest record comes as, globally, this year we saw a series of marine heatwaves — in the UK, the North Atlantic, the Mediterranean and the Gulf of Mexico.</p>

<p>As per Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) between 1982 and 2016, the frequency of marine heatwaves has doubled, becoming more intense and longer.</p>

<p>Just last week, sea surface temperatures in Florida reached hot tube levels at 38.44C. Previously, in June, the temperature of water in the UK was recorded at 3C to 5C higher than average.&nbsp;</p>


Climate Change is steadily contributing to heating up the Earth, and in the latest, scientists have sounded the alarm over ocean temperatures, which as per European Union's climate change service Copernicus have hit their hottest ever recorded temperature.

Climate Change is steadily contributing to heating up the Earth, and in the latest, scientists have sounded the alarm over ocean temperatures, which as per European Union's climate change service Copernicus have hit their hottest ever recorded temperature. Beating a 2016 record, the daily global sea surface temperatures have reached 20.96C, which is far above the average for this time of the year, reports BBC. In 2016, a record was set when the naturally occurring El Niño was in full swing. Warmer oceans land us in 'hot water' Oceans play an important role in the grand scheme of things. They are a vital climate regulator, soaking up heat, producing half the Earth's oxygen and driving weather patterns. Warmer temperatures can negatively affect these abilities. Water loses some of its ability to absorb carbon dioxide upon heating up, this means that the gas which contributes to warming the planet stays in the atmosphere. This can also accelerate the melting of glaciers, which in turn flow into oceans, finally contributing to rising sea levels. Also read | Not blue whale, this 40mn-year-old animal is largest ever to have lived on Earth Further, hotter ocean water also affects marine life. Fishes and whales are known to move in search of cooler water, which disturbs the food chain. Other species, like sharks, are known to get more aggressive. A hot bath or the ocean? Talking to BBC, Dr Kathryn Lesneski, who is monitoring a marine heatwave in the Gulf of Mexico for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, compared the water temperatures to a bath. She said that due to the rising water temperatures, "There is widespread coral bleaching at shallow reefs in Florida and many corals have already died." Experts, as per BBC, warn that this can also affect fish stocks. Also read | Ocean temperature around Florida reaches hot tub levels Dr Matt Frost, from the Plymouth Marine Lab in the UK, said that with pollution and overfishing, "We are putting oceans under more stress than we have done at any point in history." Something to be nervous about Scientists have expressed their worry about the timing of this latest broken record. "The fact that we've seen the record now makes me nervous about how much warmer the ocean may get between now and next March," says Dr Samantha Burgess, from the Copernicus Climate Change Service. As per Burgess, oceans should be at their warmest in March and not August. Watch | Climate change is shifting the oceans' colours: Study This latest record comes as, globally, this year we saw a series of marine heatwaves — in the UK, the North Atlantic, the Mediterranean and the Gulf of Mexico. As per Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) between 1982 and 2016, the frequency of marine heatwaves has doubled, becoming more intense and longer. Just last week, sea surface temperatures in Florida reached hot tube levels at 38.44C. Previously, in June, the temperature of water in the UK was recorded at 3C to 5C higher than average.

Ocean temperatures set new record, scientists warn we are in hot soup

Scotland's Loch Ness famous for hosting an alleged mythical monster is facing a climate challenge. Another prolonged dry spell is now having implications on everything from native Wildlife to species. According to figures released by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency Loch Ness's fresh waters have dropped to the lowest level in decades.

Scotland witness drier, warmer weather than ever

Big ideas emerge for slowing climate change. Is geoengineering the solution to curb carbon emissions?

Geoengineering: Is the earth ready for some sunblock?

<p>In Japan, on Wednesday (August 2nd), hundreds of thousands were left without electricity as Typhoon Khanun packed with powerful winds and lashing rain, approached&nbsp;the island nation.</p>

<h2><strong>Fatalities reported due to 'very strong' typhoon</strong></h2>

<p>As per news agency AFP, two person were reportedly killed as Typhoon Khanun, which has been described by the Japanese weather agency as "very strong" brought maximum sustained wind speeds of 180 kilometre (around 112 miles) an hour.</p>

<p>Due to the typhoon, hundreds of flights to Okinawa and other islands in the area were cancelled, leaving thousands of tourists enjoying their holiday in the region's topical beach resorts stranded.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/typhoon-doksuri-battered-china-braces-for-more-calamitic-climatic-conditions-621968">Typhoon Doksuri-battered China braces for more calamitous climate</a></strong></p>

<p>On Wednesday, more than 400 flights were cancelled on Wednesday, which affected more than 65,000 passengers.</p>

<p>Hoping to make their way back home, tourists were seen queueing at Okinawa's main Naha airport.</p>

<p>"We haven't been able to secure a hotel and we don't know when the return flight can be booked," said a tourist, Minako Kawakami talking to local daily Okinawa Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Okinawa's power company, nearly 35 per cent of the total families in the region or 220,580 households were left with no electricity early on Wednesday.</p>

<h2><strong>Evacuation efforts</strong></h2>

<p>Across Okinawa and the southern part of the Kagoshima region, an evacuation warning was put in place. As per the Fire and Disaster Management Agency, they've urged more than 690,000 residents to move to safety.</p>

<p>Public broadcaster NHK reported that a 90-year-old man died after getting trapped under a collapsed bridge on Tuesday evening. As per the report, strong winds were probably the cause. Another fatality&nbsp;was also reported from Okinawa, however, the exact cause of death is yet to be disclosed.</p>

<p>Further, 41 people were reported injured in Okinawa and Kagoshima prefectures, reports The Guardian.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-chile-argentina-face-scorching-heat-wave-in-middle-of-winter-621920">Climate change: Chile, Argentina face scorching heatwave in middle of winter</a></strong></p>

<p>The Japan Meteorological Agency has also warned of flooding and landslides in some parts of the main island of Okinawa.</p>

<p>At around 2300 GMT, the typhoon was about 70 kilometres south of Okinawa's remote Kumejima island. It was moving west-northwest, reported the Japan Meteorological Agency, adding that it was expected to cross to eastern China later in the week.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In Japan, on Wednesday (August 2nd), hundreds of thousands were left without electricity as Typhoon Khanun packed with powerful winds and lashing rain, approached the island nation.

In Japan, on Wednesday (August 2nd), hundreds of thousands were left without electricity as Typhoon Khanun packed with powerful winds and lashing rain, approached the island nation. Fatalities reported due to 'very strong' typhoon As per news agency AFP, two person were reportedly killed as Typhoon Khanun, which has been described by the Japanese weather agency as "very strong" brought maximum sustained wind speeds of 180 kilometre (around 112 miles) an hour. Due to the typhoon, hundreds of flights to Okinawa and other islands in the area were cancelled, leaving thousands of tourists enjoying their holiday in the region's topical beach resorts stranded. Also read | Typhoon Doksuri-battered China braces for more calamitous climate On Wednesday, more than 400 flights were cancelled on Wednesday, which affected more than 65,000 passengers. Hoping to make their way back home, tourists were seen queueing at Okinawa's main Naha airport. "We haven't been able to secure a hotel and we don't know when the return flight can be booked," said a tourist, Minako Kawakami talking to local daily Okinawa Times. According to Okinawa's power company, nearly 35 per cent of the total families in the region or 220,580 households were left with no electricity early on Wednesday. Evacuation efforts Across Okinawa and the southern part of the Kagoshima region, an evacuation warning was put in place. As per the Fire and Disaster Management Agency, they've urged more than 690,000 residents to move to safety. Public broadcaster NHK reported that a 90-year-old man died after getting trapped under a collapsed bridge on Tuesday evening. As per the report, strong winds were probably the cause. Another fatality was also reported from Okinawa, however, the exact cause of death is yet to be disclosed. Further, 41 people were reported injured in Okinawa and Kagoshima prefectures, reports The Guardian. Also read | Climate change: Chile, Argentina face scorching heatwave in middle of winter The Japan Meteorological Agency has also warned of flooding and landslides in some parts of the main island of Okinawa. At around 2300 GMT, the typhoon was about 70 kilometres south of Okinawa's remote Kumejima island. It was moving west-northwest, reported the Japan Meteorological Agency, adding that it was expected to cross to eastern China later in the week. (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.

Typhoon Khanun leaves 2 dead, 41 injured in Japan; over 220,000 homes sans power

<p>Latin American countries like Chile and Argentina are experiencing high temperatures like those in the northern hemisphere, but at a time when&nbsp;it was supposed to be their winter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Chilean meteorologist expert Cristobal Torres in conversation with&nbsp;AFP said that the mountain town of Vicuna recorded 37 degrees for the first time in 70 years. Additionally, the capital city Santiago recorded 24 degree&nbsp;Celsius and is likely to register similar temperatures on Thursday and Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-heat-related-deaths-rise-in-japan-and-south-korea-621458"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Climate change: Heat-related deaths rise in Japan and South Korea</strong></a></p>

<p>One of the most significant impacts of hot temperatures in Chile was on snowpacks in the mountains, a vital water source in the country's capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in Argentina's Buenos Aires, the temperature exceeded 30 degree&nbsp;Celsius on August 1, the National Meteorological Service reported. The usual temperature in the city at this time varies between 9 degrees&nbsp;and 18 degree&nbsp;Celsius.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several parts across Uruguay also recorded temperatures near 30 degrees on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Hot weather in Chile: Global warming and El Nino phenomenon</strong></p>

<p>Chile's Environment Minister Miasa Rojas, a climatologist, explained that the sudden change in the climate is due to global warming and the El Nino phenomenon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What we are experiencing is the combination of two phenomena: a global warming trend due to climate change plus the El Nino phenomenon." He added that once the El Nino phenomenon ends, the weather should also stop being this extreme.</p>

<p>An El Nino phenomenon is a climate pattern which describes the increased Pacific Ocean temperatures, causing rainfall, floods and avalanches in western South America as well as heatwaves.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-brutal-heatwave-egyptian-pm-announces-planned-power-cuts-other-measures-620065"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Amid brutal heatwave, Egyptian PM announces planned power cuts, other measures</strong></a></p>

<p>According to AFP temperatures in Santiago, Buenos Aires and Montevideo are expected to return to normal in the coming days, but are expected to experience similar heatwaves in the coming time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Raul Cordero, a climatologist at the University of Santiago said, "It is very likely that the heat record will be broken this year (in Santiago), and that is extraordinarily abnormal. Ten years ago we had two heat waves a year and now we are talking about nine."</p>

<p>Furthermore, she warned about the effects of heat at the poles.&nbsp;"The ice around the polar areas is at minimum levels. Especially around Antarctica, where at this time of year sea ice grows to reach a maximum in September, it is at a historic minimum," Raul added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(WIth inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Latin American countries like Chile and Argentina are experiencing high temperatures like those in the northern hemisphere, but at a time when it was supposed to be their winter.

Latin American countries like Chile and Argentina are experiencing high temperatures like those in the northern hemisphere, but at a time when it was supposed to be their winter. A Chilean meteorologist expert Cristobal Torres in conversation with AFP said that the mountain town of Vicuna recorded 37 degrees for the first time in 70 years. Additionally, the capital city Santiago recorded 24 degree Celsius and is likely to register similar temperatures on Thursday and Friday. Also read | Climate change: Heat-related deaths rise in Japan and South Korea One of the most significant impacts of hot temperatures in Chile was on snowpacks in the mountains, a vital water source in the country's capital. Meanwhile, in Argentina's Buenos Aires, the temperature exceeded 30 degree Celsius on August 1, the National Meteorological Service reported. The usual temperature in the city at this time varies between 9 degrees and 18 degree Celsius. Several parts across Uruguay also recorded temperatures near 30 degrees on Wednesday. Hot weather in Chile: Global warming and El Nino phenomenon Chile's Environment Minister Miasa Rojas, a climatologist, explained that the sudden change in the climate is due to global warming and the El Nino phenomenon. "What we are experiencing is the combination of two phenomena: a global warming trend due to climate change plus the El Nino phenomenon." He added that once the El Nino phenomenon ends, the weather should also stop being this extreme. An El Nino phenomenon is a climate pattern which describes the increased Pacific Ocean temperatures, causing rainfall, floods and avalanches in western South America as well as heatwaves. Also read | Amid brutal heatwave, Egyptian PM announces planned power cuts, other measures According to AFP temperatures in Santiago, Buenos Aires and Montevideo are expected to return to normal in the coming days, but are expected to experience similar heatwaves in the coming time. Raul Cordero, a climatologist at the University of Santiago said, "It is very likely that the heat record will be broken this year (in Santiago), and that is extraordinarily abnormal. Ten years ago we had two heat waves a year and now we are talking about nine." Furthermore, she warned about the effects of heat at the poles. "The ice around the polar areas is at minimum levels. Especially around Antarctica, where at this time of year sea ice grows to reach a maximum in September, it is at a historic minimum," Raul added. (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.

Climate change: Chile, Argentina face scorching heatwave in middle of winter

<p>Different parts of the world have been battered by extreme climatic conditions.&nbsp;While some regions are slapped with heavy rains and subsequent floods, other parts of the world are facing extreme heat. The situation in some Asian nations is also worsening as at least 12 people have died from heat-related causes in South Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local reports in Japan mentioned that a 13-year-old girl died from heatstroke on her way back from a school club. The Mainichi reported that the school had suspended the club gatherings an hour early due to concerns about the heat. According to the report, the school said that the students had taken breaks "every 20-25 minutes to rehydrate".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by The Guardian mentioned that the death toll since Friday reached three after an elderly couple was found dead in their home in Tokyo. Police believe they died of heatstroke amid temperatures reaching 35.7C in the city. The deteriorating situation comes weeks after Japan set a target to halve the number of heat-related deaths by 2030.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Opinion:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/russia-must-stop-using-food-as-a-weapon-621418">Russia must stop using food as a weapon</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Japan Times published a detailed report on heat-related deaths. Citing official statistics, it said that the number of heatstroke-related deaths increased from an average of 201 people a year between 1995 and 1999, to an average of 1295 from 2018 to 2022.</p>

<p>According to the report, the health ministry data showed that elderlies were most impacted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/relief-for-australia-as-great-barrier-reef-stays-off-unesco-danger-list-621258">Relief for Australia as Great Barrier Reef stays off UNESCO danger list</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, at least 20 people died and several were missing as heavy rainfall continued to batter Beijing. In China, the Doksuri typhoon forced officials to evacuate more than 52,000 people from the capital city. The authorities sealed over 100 mountain roads as a precautionary move.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns are indications of climate change. These changes are either natural or because of human activities, such as the excessive burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Concrete, asphalt and urban heat islands = heatwaves</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>As quoted by news agency Reuters, Dr Kevin Foster, who directs the Arizona Burn Center in Phoenix, said that it only takes a fraction of a second to suffer a pretty serious burn. Asphalt and concrete in direct sunlight can often reach surface temperatures as high as 82 Celsius on the hottest days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report further mentioned that doctors have treated numerous patients who suffered burns from falling on the ground or touching surfaces that were much hotter than the recorded air temperature due to the elevated temperatures in Phoenix.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Different parts of the world have been battered by extreme climatic conditions. While some regions are slapped with heavy rains and subsequent floods, other parts of the world are facing extreme heat.

Different parts of the world have been battered by extreme climatic conditions. While some regions are slapped with heavy rains and subsequent floods, other parts of the world are facing extreme heat. The situation in some Asian nations is also worsening as at least 12 people have died from heat-related causes in South Korea. Local reports in Japan mentioned that a 13-year-old girl died from heatstroke on her way back from a school club. The Mainichi reported that the school had suspended the club gatherings an hour early due to concerns about the heat. According to the report, the school said that the students had taken breaks "every 20-25 minutes to rehydrate". A report by The Guardian mentioned that the death toll since Friday reached three after an elderly couple was found dead in their home in Tokyo. Police believe they died of heatstroke amid temperatures reaching 35.7C in the city. The deteriorating situation comes weeks after Japan set a target to halve the number of heat-related deaths by 2030. Opinion: Russia must stop using food as a weapon The Japan Times published a detailed report on heat-related deaths. Citing official statistics, it said that the number of heatstroke-related deaths increased from an average of 201 people a year between 1995 and 1999, to an average of 1295 from 2018 to 2022. According to the report, the health ministry data showed that elderlies were most impacted. Watch this report: × Also read: Relief for Australia as Great Barrier Reef stays off UNESCO danger list Meanwhile, at least 20 people died and several were missing as heavy rainfall continued to batter Beijing. In China, the Doksuri typhoon forced officials to evacuate more than 52,000 people from the capital city. The authorities sealed over 100 mountain roads as a precautionary move. Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns are indications of climate change. These changes are either natural or because of human activities, such as the excessive burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas. Concrete, asphalt and urban heat islands = heatwaves As quoted by news agency Reuters, Dr Kevin Foster, who directs the Arizona Burn Center in Phoenix, said that it only takes a fraction of a second to suffer a pretty serious burn. Asphalt and concrete in direct sunlight can often reach surface temperatures as high as 82 Celsius on the hottest days. The report further mentioned that doctors have treated numerous patients who suffered burns from falling on the ground or touching surfaces that were much hotter than the recorded air temperature due to the elevated temperatures in Phoenix. (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.

Climate change: Heat-related deaths rise in Japan and South Korea

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