Spain's King Felipe and Queen Letizia attended a memorial mass on Monday to honor the 230 victims of catastrophic floods that ravaged the eastern region of Valencia. The royal couple had previously visited the area, where they faced frustration from locals who expressed anger over perceived delays in government aid by pelting them with mud. Their return aimed to show solidarity and support for the affected communities while paying tribute to those who died in the tragedy. Watch to know more!

Spain Royals Join Memorial Mass For Flood Victims | WION Climate Tracker World News

Pacific leaders at the UN climate summit in Azerbaijan are criticising Australia's push to expand its gas industry in Western Australia, warning it could emit 125 times more greenhouse gases annually than their nations combined. &nbsp;

As the second week of Cop29 unfolds in Baku, officials from Vanuatu and Tuvalu urged Australia to halt new fossil fuel developments, including extending the lifespan of Woodside's North West Shelf gas facility to 2070. &nbsp;

<h2>A call for accountability &nbsp;</h2>

Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu's special envoy for climate change, accused Australia of hypocrisy, saying it cannot claim climate leadership while expanding fossil fuel projects. &nbsp;

"As the world’s third largest fossil fuel exporter, the Australian government is exporting climate destruction overseas, including to Pacific nations like Vanuatu, who experience the most devastating impacts of the climate crisis, despite contributing the least."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-slams-russias-destruction-and-death-after-largest-air-strike-on-ukraine-776935">Zelensky slams Russia's 'destruction and death' after largest air strike on Ukraine</a>

"This is climate injustice," he stated.&nbsp;

Regenvanu pressed Australia to uphold its commitment from last year's Cop28 in Dubai to transition away from fossil fuels. &nbsp;

Maina Talia, Tuvalu's climate change minister, echoed these concerns, highlighting that limiting global warming to 1.5°C is not just a number but a "lifeline for Pacific communities facing rising seas, accelerating extreme weather disasters and the erosion of our cultures".&nbsp;

"We will continue to keep industrialised countries accountable for their actions... Our future lies solely in their hands," he said.

<h2>Australia and Cop31</h2>

Australia is lobbying to co-host Cop31 in 2026 with Pacific countries, competing against Turkey. &nbsp;

While Pacific nations back Australia’s bid for what’s being dubbed "the Pacific Cop," leaders, including Tonga's and Palau's, stress it must prioritise lifting commitments to cut emissions and support the most vulnerable in the region, reports The Guardian.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fresh-ecoli-outbreak-in-us-1-dead-dozens-infected-after-eating-contaminated-carrots-776977">Fresh E.coli outbreak in US: 1 dead, dozens infected after eating bacteria-contaminated carrots</a>

Speaking in Azerbaijan, Tuvalu's climate change minister&nbsp;Talia remarked, that co-host Cop31 would be "an exciting opportunity to accelerate ambitious climate action in our region".

However, she stressed that "a commitment to end new fossil fuels must lie at the heart of this... That means no new coal and gas, and a fair, fast phase-out of all fossil fuels."

(With inputs from agencies)

Pacific leaders at the UN climate summit in Azerbaijan are criticising Australia's push to expand its gas industry in Western Australia, warning it could emit 125 times more greenhouse gases annually than their nations combined.

Pacific leaders at the UN climate summit in Azerbaijan are criticising Australia's push to expand its gas industry in Western Australia, warning it could emit 125 times more greenhouse gases annually than their nations combined. As the second week of Cop29 unfolds in Baku, officials from Vanuatu and Tuvalu urged Australia to halt new fossil fuel developments, including extending the lifespan of Woodside's North West Shelf gas facility to 2070. A call for accountability Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu's special envoy for climate change, accused Australia of hypocrisy, saying it cannot claim climate leadership while expanding fossil fuel projects. "As the world’s third largest fossil fuel exporter, the Australian government is exporting climate destruction overseas, including to Pacific nations like Vanuatu, who experience the most devastating impacts of the climate crisis, despite contributing the least." Also read | Zelensky slams Russia's 'destruction and death' after largest air strike on Ukraine "This is climate injustice," he stated. Regenvanu pressed Australia to uphold its commitment from last year's Cop28 in Dubai to transition away from fossil fuels. Maina Talia, Tuvalu's climate change minister, echoed these concerns, highlighting that limiting global warming to 1.5°C is not just a number but a "lifeline for Pacific communities facing rising seas, accelerating extreme weather disasters and the erosion of our cultures". "We will continue to keep industrialised countries accountable for their actions... Our future lies solely in their hands," he said. Australia and Cop31 Australia is lobbying to co-host Cop31 in 2026 with Pacific countries, competing against Turkey. While Pacific nations back Australia’s bid for what’s being dubbed "the Pacific Cop," leaders, including Tonga's and Palau's, stress it must prioritise lifting commitments to cut emissions and support the most vulnerable in the region, reports The Guardian. Also read | Fresh E.coli outbreak in US: 1 dead, dozens infected after eating bacteria-contaminated carrots Speaking in Azerbaijan, Tuvalu's climate change minister Talia remarked, that co-host Cop31 would be "an exciting opportunity to accelerate ambitious climate action in our region". However, she stressed that "a commitment to end new fossil fuels must lie at the heart of this... That means no new coal and gas, and a fair, fast phase-out of all fossil fuels." (With inputs from agencies)

Pacific leaders accuse Australia of 'climate injustice' at COP29

The European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) has declared that 2024 is “virtually certain” to set a record as the hottest year globally, beating 2023's record as the world's warmest since records began.

This comes just before the COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan, where leaders will push for significant funding boosts to combat climate change.

<h2>The hottest year on record</h2>

C3S data from January to October shows global temperatures climbing so steeply that only an unlikely, drastic cooling in the last months could prevent 2024 from setting a new high.

Talking to Reuters, C3S Director Carlo Buontempo said, “The fundamental, underpinning cause of this year's record is climate change.”

Also read | <a class="WlydOe" data-sb="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/trending/world-will-lose-50-heritage-sites-till-2050-because-of-climate-change-predict-experts-753153&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiA3p6a18mJAxULzDgGHSv5JyEQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE&amp;usg=AOvVaw1qqOPNez43hPvex3k1Qzb7" data-ved="2ahUKEwiA3p6a18mJAxULzDgGHSv5JyEQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/world-will-lose-50-heritage-sites-till-2050-because-of-climate-change-predict-experts-753153" jsname="YKoRaf">World will lose 50 heritage sites till 2050 because of climate change, predict experts</a> 

“The climate is warming, generally,” Buontempo noted, “It's warming in all continents, in all ocean basins. So we are bound to see those records being broken”.

For the first time, Earth in 2024 will cross the 1.5&nbsp;°C warming threshold compared to the 1850-1990 pre-industrial levels. This milestone—once considered a distant risk—is now effectively here, warn scientists.

"It's basically around the corner now," Buontempo said.

Climate scientist Sonia Seneviratne from ETH Zurich said she was not surprised by the fact that we were close to reaching the milestone. Echoing the urgency of COP29, she warned that the world's limited actions on carbon emissions are endangering the Paris Agreement’s targets, originally set to prevent average warming from exceeding 1.5&nbsp;°C by 2030.

Also read | <a class="WlydOe" data-sb="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/trending/september-becomes-second-warmest-month-on-record-globally-eu-climate-monitor-765666&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiA3p6a18mJAxULzDgGHSv5JyEQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE&amp;usg=AOvVaw3kLglrslc5VoXIbdYtDSst" data-ved="2ahUKEwiA3p6a18mJAxULzDgGHSv5JyEQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/september-becomes-second-warmest-month-on-record-globally-eu-climate-monitor-765666" jsname="YKoRaf">September becomes second-warmest month on record globally: EU climate monitor</a> 

“The limits that were set in the Paris Agreement are starting to crumble given the too-slow pace of climate action across the world,” Seneviratne said.

The temperature spikes this year have contributed to intense and devastating events worldwide. October alone saw catastrophic flash floods in Spain, raging wildfires in Peru, and severe flooding in Bangladesh that destroyed over a million tons of rice, sending food prices soaring. In the US, Hurricane Milton was similarly exacerbated by human-driven climate change.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) has declared that 2024 is “virtually certain” to set a record as the hottest year globally, beating 2023's record as the world's warmest since records began.

The European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) has declared that 2024 is “virtually certain” to set a record as the hottest year globally, beating 2023's record as the world's warmest since records began. This comes just before the COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan, where leaders will push for significant funding boosts to combat climate change. The hottest year on record C3S data from January to October shows global temperatures climbing so steeply that only an unlikely, drastic cooling in the last months could prevent 2024 from setting a new high. Talking to Reuters, C3S Director Carlo Buontempo said, “The fundamental, underpinning cause of this year's record is climate change.” Also read | World will lose 50 heritage sites till 2050 because of climate change, predict experts “The climate is warming, generally,” Buontempo noted, “It's warming in all continents, in all ocean basins. So we are bound to see those records being broken”. For the first time, Earth in 2024 will cross the 1.5 °C warming threshold compared to the 1850-1990 pre-industrial levels. This milestone—once considered a distant risk—is now effectively here, warn scientists. "It's basically around the corner now," Buontempo said. Climate scientist Sonia Seneviratne from ETH Zurich said she was not surprised by the fact that we were close to reaching the milestone. Echoing the urgency of COP29, she warned that the world's limited actions on carbon emissions are endangering the Paris Agreement’s targets, originally set to prevent average warming from exceeding 1.5 °C by 2030. Also read | September becomes second-warmest month on record globally: EU climate monitor “The limits that were set in the Paris Agreement are starting to crumble given the too-slow pace of climate action across the world,” Seneviratne said. The temperature spikes this year have contributed to intense and devastating events worldwide. October alone saw catastrophic flash floods in Spain, raging wildfires in Peru, and severe flooding in Bangladesh that destroyed over a million tons of rice, sending food prices soaring. In the US, Hurricane Milton was similarly exacerbated by human-driven climate change. (With inputs from agencies)

2024 on track to be hottest year in history, says EU climate monitor ahead of COP29

New York US Presidential Elections 2024 result: New York, home to America's most populous city, was among the states that went to polls on November 5 to choose between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump for US president, besides voting in a number of federal and state level elections.

The state's politics is shaped by the waves of immigrant populations that reached its shores, welcomed by the Statue of Liberty at Ellis Island over the past two centuries. Immigrant workers were a key aspect of political discourse and it was inevitable that New York would become a centre for civil rights and labour movements.&nbsp;

WATCH: US Elections: NYC Sets Record For City's Highest Day-One Early Voting Turnout

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&nbsp;

Here are the results of the elections:

<h2>US presidential election 2024 result in New York</h2>

Democratic candidate Kamala Harris won 28 electoral votes, having won the popular vote with 55.8 per cent, or over 4.3 million votes, at the time of writing this.&nbsp; 
 
Trump got 44.2 per cent, or 3.4 million votes.

The northeastern state, once home to Trump and headquarters of his business empire the Trump Organization, has traditionally been Democratic. 
&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trump-media-stock-soars-21-following-new-york-city-rally-771549">Also read: Trump Media stock soars 21% following New York City rally</a> 
&nbsp;

Since 1992, Democratic presidential candidates have won the popular vote with confortable margin of at least 15 per cent.

Within the state, Democrats are strong in New York City, the surrounding New York metropolitan area, Greater Buffalo and the Capital Region.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strongly-disagree-kamala-harris-rejects-bidens-garbage-dig-at-trump-supporters-772094">Also read: 'Strongly disagree,' Kamala Harris rejects Biden's 'garbage' dig at Trump supporters</a> 
&nbsp;

<h2>New York House of Representative, Senate election results</h2>

All 26 seats in the US House of Representatives were up for grabs in New York on November 5. Out of these, 18 seats were won by Democrats, which is a gain of two seats. Republicans won seven seats, losing two. One result is awaited.

In the single Senate seat that went to polls, Democratic incumbent Kirsten Gillibrand won against Republican businessman Mike Sapraicone. Gillibrand, who was seeking a third term, won 58.4 per cent, or 4.4 million votes, while Sapriaicone got 41.1 per cent or 3.1 mn votes.

&nbsp;

<h2>New York State Assembly elections 2024</h2>

At the state legislature elections 2024, all the 63 seats in the New York Senate and all 150 seats in the State Assembly were up for grabs. Results will be updated when final.

Democrats dominated the New York State Senate since 2018.

In the State Assembly, they have had a better record, holding a majority since &nbsp;1975.

<h2>(With inputs from agencies)</h2>

New York US Presidential Elections 2024 result: New York, home to America's most populous city, was among the states that went to polls on November 5 to choose between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump for US president, besides voting in a number of federal and state level elections.

New York US Presidential Elections 2024 result: New York, home to America's most populous city, was among the states that went to polls on November 5 to choose between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump for US president, besides voting in a number of federal and state level elections. The state's politics is shaped by the waves of immigrant populations that reached its shores, welcomed by the Statue of Liberty at Ellis Island over the past two centuries. Immigrant workers were a key aspect of political discourse and it was inevitable that New York would become a centre for civil rights and labour movements. WATCH: US Elections: NYC Sets Record For City's Highest Day-One Early Voting Turnout × Here are the results of the elections: US presidential election 2024 result in New York Democratic candidate Kamala Harris won 28 electoral votes, having won the popular vote with 55.8 per cent, or over 4.3 million votes, at the time of writing this. Trump got 44.2 per cent, or 3.4 million votes. The northeastern state, once home to Trump and headquarters of his business empire the Trump Organization, has traditionally been Democratic. Also read: Trump Media stock soars 21% following New York City rally Since 1992, Democratic presidential candidates have won the popular vote with confortable margin of at least 15 per cent. Within the state, Democrats are strong in New York City, the surrounding New York metropolitan area, Greater Buffalo and the Capital Region. Also read: 'Strongly disagree,' Kamala Harris rejects Biden's 'garbage' dig at Trump supporters New York House of Representative, Senate election results All 26 seats in the US House of Representatives were up for grabs in New York on November 5. Out of these, 18 seats were won by Democrats, which is a gain of two seats. Republicans won seven seats, losing two. One result is awaited. In the single Senate seat that went to polls, Democratic incumbent Kirsten Gillibrand won against Republican businessman Mike Sapraicone. Gillibrand, who was seeking a third term, won 58.4 per cent, or 4.4 million votes, while Sapriaicone got 41.1 per cent or 3.1 mn votes. New York State Assembly elections 2024 At the state legislature elections 2024, all the 63 seats in the New York Senate and all 150 seats in the State Assembly were up for grabs. Results will be updated when final. Democrats dominated the New York State Senate since 2018. In the State Assembly, they have had a better record, holding a majority since 1975. (With inputs from agencies)

New York US Presidential Elections result 2024: House, Senate, state votes - What we know

Spain races to find survivors as flood death toll rises to 158. Flash floods hit parts of Spain on Wednesday, devastating communities in Valencia. Residents describe ‘nightmare’ scenes, ‘We all know someone who has died’. Flash flooding ripped through parts of eastern Spain, destroyed buildings and infrastructure. Watch to know more!

Spain Floods: Rescuers Scramble To Find Survivors As Death Toll Soars To 158 | WION Originals

Taiwan shuts down for impact of Super Typhoon Kong-rey. Heavy rains, high winds lash Taiwan as Kong-rey makes landfall along its southeast coast. Kong-rey is, the largest storm to hit the island in nearly since 1996. Kong-rey packed winds of 200 kilometers per hour, equivalent to Category 3 Atlantic hurricane. Watch to know more!

Taiwan: Heavy Rains, High Winds Lash Taiwan As Kong-Rey Makes Landfall | WION Originals

Climate breakdown has led to more than half of 68,000 heat-related deaths during the blazing European summer of 2022, according to a study.

Researchers from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) found 38,000 fewer people would have died from heat if humans had not clogged the atmosphere with pollutants that act like a greenhouse and bake the planet.&nbsp;

Notably, the death toll is ten times more than the number of people murdered in Europe that year.&nbsp;

Lead author, Thessa Beck said, "Many see climate change as a future concern. Yet our findings underscore that it is already a pressing issue.”

The scorching heat&nbsp;killed more women than men, more southern Europeans than northern Europeans, and more older people than younger people, according to the study.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-reports-greenhouse-gases-hit-new-record-highs-in-2023-771383">Also read:&nbsp;Greenhouse gases hit new record highs in 2023, warns UN report</a>

The scientists knew that carbon pollution had made the heatwaves hotter, but they did not know how much it had driven up the death toll.&nbsp;

They further found that 56 per cent of heat-related deaths could have been avoided if the world had not been warmed by burning fossil fuels and the destruction of nature.&nbsp;

Six years ago, this number ranged between 44 per cent to 54 per cent.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Climate Change Causing Extreme Weather Events In Africa: Experts

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Emily Theokritoff, a researcher at Imperial College London, said that even small increases in temperatures can have devastating impacts on public health.&nbsp;

“This result makes sense – heat-related death increases rapidly as temperatures push past the limits people are acclimatized to," said Theokritoff, who was not involved in the study.&nbsp;

Notably, Europe has been warming twice as fast as the rest of the planet and the doctors have warned that its hospitals are unprepared to deal with it.&nbsp;

Beck noted that the dangers of extreme heat are even greater in Africa, Asia, and South America, but a lack of data has limited studies on how it affects human health.&nbsp;

“A common misconception is that only extreme temperatures pose a serious risk,” she said. “However, our study, along with previous research, shows that even moderate heat can lead to heat-related deaths, particularly among more vulnerable populations.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Climate breakdown has led to more than half of 68,000 heat-related deaths during the blazing European summer of 2022, according to a study. Researchers from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) found 38,000 fewer people would have died from heat if humans had not clogged the atmosphere with pollutants that act like a greenhouse and bake the planet.

Climate breakdown has led to more than half of 68,000 heat-related deaths during the blazing European summer of 2022, according to a study. Researchers from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) found 38,000 fewer people would have died from heat if humans had not clogged the atmosphere with pollutants that act like a greenhouse and bake the planet. Notably, the death toll is ten times more than the number of people murdered in Europe that year. Lead author, Thessa Beck said, "Many see climate change as a future concern. Yet our findings underscore that it is already a pressing issue.” The scorching heat killed more women than men, more southern Europeans than northern Europeans, and more older people than younger people, according to the study. Also read: Greenhouse gases hit new record highs in 2023, warns UN report The scientists knew that carbon pollution had made the heatwaves hotter, but they did not know how much it had driven up the death toll. They further found that 56 per cent of heat-related deaths could have been avoided if the world had not been warmed by burning fossil fuels and the destruction of nature. Six years ago, this number ranged between 44 per cent to 54 per cent. Watch | Climate Change Causing Extreme Weather Events In Africa: Experts × Emily Theokritoff, a researcher at Imperial College London, said that even small increases in temperatures can have devastating impacts on public health. “This result makes sense – heat-related death increases rapidly as temperatures push past the limits people are acclimatized to," said Theokritoff, who was not involved in the study. Notably, Europe has been warming twice as fast as the rest of the planet and the doctors have warned that its hospitals are unprepared to deal with it. Beck noted that the dangers of extreme heat are even greater in Africa, Asia, and South America, but a lack of data has limited studies on how it affects human health. “A common misconception is that only extreme temperatures pose a serious risk,” she said. “However, our study, along with previous research, shows that even moderate heat can lead to heat-related deaths, particularly among more vulnerable populations.” (With inputs from agencies)

Climate breakdown led to half of European heat deaths in 2022: Study

The story of the Democratic Party, from which Kamala Harris is racing for the White House, starts in the 19th century. Since its founding in 1828, America's&nbsp;oldest major political party has come a long way from protecting the interests of farmers, which made it take a stance in favour of slavery, to becoming the left-of-centre voice of the nation's politics.

Watch: Democratic National Convention: Biden urges Democrats to support Harris in race to White House

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The party is now considered as leftist as it could get in the US, carefully balancing free market, and neoliberal economic policies with progressive stances on social issues such as women's rights, abortion and migration.

However, by the time Barack Obama finished his second term as president, the Democrats were seen as too woke, which led to the gathering of right-wing forces under Donald Trump, catapulting the businessman into the presidency in 2016.

Since the mid-20th century, the Democratic Party has become the voice of the African-American-led civil rights movement, an incredible transformation from its earlier role in opposing the abolition of slavery.

The party's stance on social justice, including for religious minorities, the LGBTQ+ community, and immigrants, made it a force for diversity in a political landscape marked by the unique two-party system.&nbsp;

Democrats gave to America some of the most iconic presidents including John F Kennedy, Thomas Jefferson, Andrew Jackson, James K Polk, Grover Cleveland, Woodrow Wilson, Franklin D Roosevelt, Harry S Truman, Lyndon B Johnson, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama.

But they were not without their set of controversies. Kennedy was assassinated while in office. Clinton became the centre of a sex scandal involving a White House intern and faced an impeachment move which he survived.

And there's also a tendency for the Democrats to become a 'family party'. Several family members of Kennedy assumed political office, while Clinton's wife Hillary unsuccessfully ran for the White House against Trump. Obama's wife, Michelle, is a strong campaigner for the party with reports often indicating a larger political role for her that could even include a run for the presidency in the future.&nbsp;

For all its appearance of being liberal, the Democrats have a dark history of ravaging several parts of the world, particularly during the Cold War era.

Not too different from the Republicans, they supported brutal dictators across Latin America, Asia and West Asia, and 'colour-coded revolutions' in the periphery of the erstwhile Soviet Union in an attempt to surround Russia with pro-West governments.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-time-to-end-drama-kamala-harris-vows-in-her-closing-argument-771857">Harris vows to 'end drama' in 'closing argument' from Ellipse, site of US capitol riots</a>

The Democrats supported, encouraged or helped the so-called Arab Spring - a series of revolutions in Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, Syria and other nations in West Asia, that was followed by years of bloodshed, toppling of military dictators only to replace them with more military men,&nbsp;civil war, and the worsening of Jihadi terrorism in the Islamic world.

The Democrats had enjoyed a majority in the US Congress at several points in history. They had near-uninterrupted dominance of the House of Representatives between 1932 and 1938. They won the lower house in 1948, 1954, 1964, 1966, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2018 and 2022, though some of these periods saw their majority shrink.

In the Senate, Democrats won in 1932, 1934, 1936, 1948, 1954, 1964, 1966, 2006, 2008, 2018 and 2020.

In the 20th century, Democratic presidents were at the helm during most of the World Wars and much of the Cold War. They brought in policies for economic recovery and health care reform.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-democratic-party-nominee-kamala-harris-771170">Also read: US Elections: All you need to know about the Democratic Party nominee Kamala Harris</a>

The Democratic Party is credited with giving energy to the civil rights movement, reducing inequality, expanding social welfare and giving leadership to the world in tackling the climate crisis.&nbsp;

While this made the Democrats the darling of minorities, much of the working class and marginalised people, their Republican rivals often accuse the party of being class warriors and Communists.

Will Kamala Harris, the current vice president, be elected as a true representative of the diversity of the American people?&nbsp;

Whether she makes it to the White House or not, the fact that a woman of mixed Asian and African descent was able to make it to the race is in itself a tribute to the Democrats' efforts to be the true representative of a very diverse and complex nation.

The story of the Democratic Party, from which Kamala Harris is racing for the White House, starts in the 19th century. Since its founding in 1828, America's oldest major political party has come a long way from protecting the interests of farmers, which made it take a stance in favour of slavery, to becoming the left-of-centre voice of the nation's politics.

The story of the Democratic Party, from which Kamala Harris is racing for the White House, starts in the 19th century. Since its founding in 1828, America's oldest major political party has come a long way from protecting the interests of farmers, which made it take a stance in favour of slavery, to becoming the left-of-centre voice of the nation's politics. Watch: Democratic National Convention: Biden urges Democrats to support Harris in race to White House × The party is now considered as leftist as it could get in the US, carefully balancing free market, and neoliberal economic policies with progressive stances on social issues such as women's rights, abortion and migration. However, by the time Barack Obama finished his second term as president, the Democrats were seen as too woke, which led to the gathering of right-wing forces under Donald Trump, catapulting the businessman into the presidency in 2016. Since the mid-20th century, the Democratic Party has become the voice of the African-American-led civil rights movement, an incredible transformation from its earlier role in opposing the abolition of slavery. The party's stance on social justice, including for religious minorities, the LGBTQ+ community, and immigrants, made it a force for diversity in a political landscape marked by the unique two-party system. Democrats gave to America some of the most iconic presidents including John F Kennedy, Thomas Jefferson, Andrew Jackson, James K Polk, Grover Cleveland, Woodrow Wilson, Franklin D Roosevelt, Harry S Truman, Lyndon B Johnson, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama. But they were not without their set of controversies. Kennedy was assassinated while in office. Clinton became the centre of a sex scandal involving a White House intern and faced an impeachment move which he survived. And there's also a tendency for the Democrats to become a 'family party'. Several family members of Kennedy assumed political office, while Clinton's wife Hillary unsuccessfully ran for the White House against Trump. Obama's wife, Michelle, is a strong campaigner for the party with reports often indicating a larger political role for her that could even include a run for the presidency in the future. For all its appearance of being liberal, the Democrats have a dark history of ravaging several parts of the world, particularly during the Cold War era. Not too different from the Republicans, they supported brutal dictators across Latin America, Asia and West Asia, and 'colour-coded revolutions' in the periphery of the erstwhile Soviet Union in an attempt to surround Russia with pro-West governments. Also read: Harris vows to 'end drama' in 'closing argument' from Ellipse, site of US capitol riots The Democrats supported, encouraged or helped the so-called Arab Spring - a series of revolutions in Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, Syria and other nations in West Asia, that was followed by years of bloodshed, toppling of military dictators only to replace them with more military men, civil war, and the worsening of Jihadi terrorism in the Islamic world. The Democrats had enjoyed a majority in the US Congress at several points in history. They had near-uninterrupted dominance of the House of Representatives between 1932 and 1938. They won the lower house in 1948, 1954, 1964, 1966, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2018 and 2022, though some of these periods saw their majority shrink. In the Senate, Democrats won in 1932, 1934, 1936, 1948, 1954, 1964, 1966, 2006, 2008, 2018 and 2020. In the 20th century, Democratic presidents were at the helm during most of the World Wars and much of the Cold War. They brought in policies for economic recovery and health care reform. Also read: US Elections: All you need to know about the Democratic Party nominee Kamala Harris The Democratic Party is credited with giving energy to the civil rights movement, reducing inequality, expanding social welfare and giving leadership to the world in tackling the climate crisis. While this made the Democrats the darling of minorities, much of the working class and marginalised people, their Republican rivals often accuse the party of being class warriors and Communists. Will Kamala Harris, the current vice president, be elected as a true representative of the diversity of the American people? Whether she makes it to the White House or not, the fact that a woman of mixed Asian and African descent was able to make it to the race is in itself a tribute to the Democrats' efforts to be the true representative of a very diverse and complex nation.

US Elections: Democratic Party of Kamala Harris - What you should know

BMW has ignited a debate over whether so-called "carbon culprits" like internal combustion engine cars can actually become climate champions.

Are Fossil Fuel Cars The Next Green Wave?

Fossils are selling for exorbitant sums at auctions. The reason: unknown customers offer millions of dollars for a piece of history and a dash of celebrity. However, none of that funding advances science. This report explores this interesting market phenomenon.

Fossilised Dinosaurs Emerging As A New Asset Class?

As the world grapples with a multitude of crises, the World Bank has issued a stark warning regarding the state of global poverty. In a recent report, the institution highlighted how ongoing wars, escalating debt levels, the climate crisis, and the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic have collectively undermined efforts to alleviate poverty worldwide according to detailed report by The Guardian. <o:p></o:p>

The report underscores that these compounding challenges have resulted in a staggering increase in poverty rates. According to the World Bank’s findings, nearly 700 million people are now living on less than $2.15 per day, a figure that has surged by 10 per cent since 2019. This alarming trend not only threatens the livelihoods of millions but also jeopardises the progress made in previous decades to combat poverty.<o:p></o:p>

Impact of conflict and debt on poverty<o:p></o:p>

The report elaborates on how conflicts in various regions have worsened poverty levels. Countries involved&nbsp;in wars experience significant disruptions to their economies and social structures. The World Bank noted that conflict-related displacement has reached unprecedented levels, with over 100 million people forced to flee their homes due to violence.<o:p></o:p>

Moreover, rising debt burdens have left many nations struggling to fund essential services. The institution revealed that around 60 per cent of low-income countries are currently at risk of or already experiencing debt distress. This financial strain limits governments' ability to invest in critical areas such as healthcare and education, further entrenching poverty.<o:p></o:p>

Climate change: A growing threat<o:p></o:p>

In addition to conflict and debt, climate change poses an existential threat to global poverty reduction efforts. The World Bank's report highlights that extreme weather events have become increasingly frequent and severe, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations. Floods, droughts, and heatwaves not only destroy livelihoods but also disrupt food security.<o:p></o:p>

The report warns that without immediate action to address climate change, an estimated 130 million people could be pushed into extreme poverty by 2030. This grim projection serves as a clarion call for governments and organisations worldwide to prioritise sustainable development practices and invest in climate resilience.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>The role of Covid-19<o:p></o:p>

The Covid-19 pandemic has further complicated these challenges. The World Bank stated that while many countries are recovering from the immediate health crisis, the economic repercussions continue to reverberate through societies. Job losses and reduced incomes have left countless families struggling to make ends meet.<o:p></o:p>

In light of these multifaceted crises, the World Bank is urging governments to adopt comprehensive strategies aimed at combating poverty. This includes increasing investments in social protection systems, enhancing access to education and healthcare, and promoting economic diversification.<o:p></o:p>

The World Bank's report paints a difficult picture of the current state of global poverty amid wars, debt crises, climate change, and the ongoing effects of Covid-19. As millions face unprecedented challenges, it is imperative for policymakers to act decisively to reverse these trends and safeguard the future of vulnerable populations worldwide. The time for action is now; failure to respond could result in irreversible damage to global anti-poverty efforts for generations to come.<o:p></o:p>

As the world grapples with a multitude of crises, the World Bank has issued a stark warning regarding the state of global poverty. In a recent report, the institution highlighted how ongoing wars, escalating debt levels, the climate crisis, and the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic have collectively undermined efforts to alleviate poverty worldwide according to detailed report by The Guardian.

As the world grapples with a multitude of crises, the World Bank has issued a stark warning regarding the state of global poverty. In a recent report, the institution highlighted how ongoing wars, escalating debt levels, the climate crisis, and the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic have collectively undermined efforts to alleviate poverty worldwide according to detailed report by The Guardian. The report underscores that these compounding challenges have resulted in a staggering increase in poverty rates. According to the World Bank’s findings, nearly 700 million people are now living on less than $2.15 per day, a figure that has surged by 10 per cent since 2019. This alarming trend not only threatens the livelihoods of millions but also jeopardises the progress made in previous decades to combat poverty. Impact of conflict and debt on poverty The report elaborates on how conflicts in various regions have worsened poverty levels. Countries involved in wars experience significant disruptions to their economies and social structures. The World Bank noted that conflict-related displacement has reached unprecedented levels, with over 100 million people forced to flee their homes due to violence. Moreover, rising debt burdens have left many nations struggling to fund essential services. The institution revealed that around 60 per cent of low-income countries are currently at risk of or already experiencing debt distress. This financial strain limits governments' ability to invest in critical areas such as healthcare and education, further entrenching poverty. Climate change: A growing threat In addition to conflict and debt, climate change poses an existential threat to global poverty reduction efforts. The World Bank's report highlights that extreme weather events have become increasingly frequent and severe, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations. Floods, droughts, and heatwaves not only destroy livelihoods but also disrupt food security. The report warns that without immediate action to address climate change, an estimated 130 million people could be pushed into extreme poverty by 2030. This grim projection serves as a clarion call for governments and organisations worldwide to prioritise sustainable development practices and invest in climate resilience. The role of Covid-19 The Covid-19 pandemic has further complicated these challenges. The World Bank stated that while many countries are recovering from the immediate health crisis, the economic repercussions continue to reverberate through societies. Job losses and reduced incomes have left countless families struggling to make ends meet. In light of these multifaceted crises, the World Bank is urging governments to adopt comprehensive strategies aimed at combating poverty. This includes increasing investments in social protection systems, enhancing access to education and healthcare, and promoting economic diversification. The World Bank's report paints a difficult picture of the current state of global poverty amid wars, debt crises, climate change, and the ongoing effects of Covid-19. As millions face unprecedented challenges, it is imperative for policymakers to act decisively to reverse these trends and safeguard the future of vulnerable populations worldwide. The time for action is now; failure to respond could result in irreversible damage to global anti-poverty efforts for generations to come.

Wars, debt, and climate crisis stall global anti-poverty efforts, warns World Bank

A preliminary investigation by an international team of researchers revealed that the amount of carbon absorbed by land drastically decreased in 2023, the hottest year on record, according to a report in The Guardian.

A preliminary investigation by an international team of researchers revealed that the amount of carbon absorbed by land drastically decreased in 2023, the hottest year on record, according to a report in The Guardian. This resulted in forests, plants, and soil absorbing minimal carbon during that period. Melting ice disrupting ocean carbon absorption Another study cited by The Guardian highlighted that the glaciers in Greenland and the Arctic ice sheets are melting more rapidly than expected. This is affecting the Gulf Stream ocean current, which is also slowing the rate at which oceans are able to absorb carbon. Long-term effects on carbon storage in oceans The drop in carbon absorption may not be a short-term issue. Melting sea ice is exposing algae-eating zooplankton to increased sunlight, causing them to remain deeper underwater for longer periods. This interrupts their vertical migration, a process that helps store carbon on the ocean floor, which could have long-term consequences. Johan Rockström, director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, spoke at the New York Climate Week event in September, warning, “We’re seeing cracks in the resilience of the Earth’s systems. We’re seeing massive cracks on land – terrestrial ecosystems are losing their carbon store and carbon uptake capacity, but the oceans are also showing signs of instability.” Also read: Watch: Three-armed robot conducts orchestra with 'lightsaber' baton - Is this the future of music? While the 2023 collapse of land's carbon absorption may be temporary, depending on the presence of drought or wildfires, it highlights the vulnerability of these ecosystems, with serious consequences for the climate. Lack of large-scale carbon removal technology In the absence of large-scale technology capable of removing atmospheric carbon, Earth's forests, grasslands, peatlands, and oceans remain the primary natural systems absorbing carbon emissions, which reached a record 37.4 billion tonnes in 2023. Climate models may underestimate global warming Most climate models have not accounted for such a swift decline in land carbon sinks, as witnessed in 2023. If this trend continues, it could lead to faster global warming than these models have projected. Regional variation in forest carbon absorption A study published in July revealed that while forests consistently absorbed carbon between 1990 and 2019, the amount absorbed varied greatly depending on the region. Boreal forests, which hold about one-third of the world’s land-based carbon and span Russia, Scandinavia, Canada, and Alaska, have experienced a sharp reduction in carbon absorption—over a third of it lost due to beetle infestations, fires, and logging, all driven by the climate crisis. Global heating driven by collapsing land sinks Combined with the weakening resilience of the Amazon rainforest and drought conditions across tropical regions, the extreme heat in northern forests contributed to the collapse of land carbon sinks in 2023, leading to a sharp rise in atmospheric carbon levels. (With inputs from agencies)

Record-low CO2 uptake by trees raises concerns over nature’s ability to absorb carbon

The death toll from Typhoon Yagi in Myanmar has risen to 74. The jump in the death toll comes a day after the junta made a rare request for foreign aid to combat the tragic natural disaster. Furthermore, 89 people are missing.

According to official figures, floods, and landslides because of the Typhoon that hit the region last week have killed almost 350 people across Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:135,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1972}">Search and rescue operations underway</h2>

Typhoon Yagi is the strongest storm to hit Asia this year. As the flood waters from swollen rivers inundate cities across the region, in Myanmar, the floods "resulted in 74 deaths and 89 people missing" as of Friday evening.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:247,&quot;w&quot;:636,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2084}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-junta-makes-rare-request-for-foreign-aid-as-country-battles-with-massive-floods-758738">Myanmar Junta makes rare request for foreign aid as country battles with massive floods</a>

According to the Global New Light of Myanmar, the floods have destroyed over 65,000 houses and five dams.&nbsp;

Search and rescue operations are underway to look for those missing.

In Myanmar, swathes of farmlands have been inundated, including around the sprawling, low-lying capital Naypyidaw, reports news agency AFP. Landslides have been reported in hilly areas. However, with phone and internet lines down, compiling information has proven difficult.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:428,&quot;w&quot;:710,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2265}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/horrible-scene-at-least-25-dead-40-injured-while-trying-to-collect-leaking-fuel-from-tank-in-haiti-758743">'Horrible scene': At least 25 dead, 40 injured while trying to collect leaking fuel from tank in Haiti</a>

According to state media reports, authorities have opened 82 "relief camps" to house displaced people.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:478,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2315}">Junta's rare plea for aid</h2>

On Saturday (Sep 14), Myanmar's junta chief made a rare request for foreign aid to deal with the floods, reported state media.

Previously, on Friday, junta chief Min Aung Hlaing&nbsp;according to the Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper said,&nbsp;"Officials from the government need to contact foreign countries to receive rescue and relief aid to be provided to the victims."

"It is necessary to manage rescue, relief, and rehabilitation measures as quickly as possible," he was quoted as saying.

This unexpected appeal follows the military's track record of blocking international humanitarian aid.&nbsp;Just last year, the military halted travel authorisations for aid groups trying to reach around a million victims of powerful Cyclone Mocha.

(With inputs from agencies)

The death toll from Typhoon Yagi in Myanmar has risen to 74. The jump in the death toll comes a day after the junta made a rare request for foreign aid to combat the tragic natural disaster.

The death toll from Typhoon Yagi in Myanmar has risen to 74. The jump in the death toll comes a day after the junta made a rare request for foreign aid to combat the tragic natural disaster. Furthermore, 89 people are missing. According to official figures, floods, and landslides because of the Typhoon that hit the region last week have killed almost 350 people across Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand. Search and rescue operations underway Typhoon Yagi is the strongest storm to hit Asia this year. As the flood waters from swollen rivers inundate cities across the region, in Myanmar, the floods "resulted in 74 deaths and 89 people missing" as of Friday evening. Also read | Myanmar Junta makes rare request for foreign aid as country battles with massive floods According to the Global New Light of Myanmar, the floods have destroyed over 65,000 houses and five dams. Search and rescue operations are underway to look for those missing. In Myanmar, swathes of farmlands have been inundated, including around the sprawling, low-lying capital Naypyidaw, reports news agency AFP. Landslides have been reported in hilly areas. However, with phone and internet lines down, compiling information has proven difficult. Also read | 'Horrible scene': At least 25 dead, 40 injured while trying to collect leaking fuel from tank in Haiti According to state media reports, authorities have opened 82 "relief camps" to house displaced people. Junta's rare plea for aid On Saturday (Sep 14), Myanmar's junta chief made a rare request for foreign aid to deal with the floods, reported state media. Previously, on Friday, junta chief Min Aung Hlaing according to the Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper said, "Officials from the government need to contact foreign countries to receive rescue and relief aid to be provided to the victims." "It is necessary to manage rescue, relief, and rehabilitation measures as quickly as possible," he was quoted as saying. This unexpected appeal follows the military's track record of blocking international humanitarian aid. Just last year, the military halted travel authorisations for aid groups trying to reach around a million victims of powerful Cyclone Mocha. (With inputs from agencies)

Typhoon Yagi death toll rises to 74 in Myanmar; 89 missing as floods and landslides wreak havoc

In the Brazilian capital, a massive wildfire has destroyed about 20 per cent of a forest, cloaking the city in a cloud of grey-white smoke. The blaze, as per officials, was believed to have been started by arsonists.

<h2>Conservation area</h2>

As per Reuters, the National Forest of Brasília is a conservation area that stretches to over 5,600 hectares of woodland home to springs that are the source of over 70 per cent of the city's freshwater.

"We have put out three of the four blazes, and we hope to have the fire under control by the end of the day," said Fabio dos Santos Miranda.

Miranda, who manages the forest in an interview, added that they were "sure this was an environmental crime, but we haven't confirmed if it was intentional or not."&nbsp;

He added that three suspected arsonists were seen in the area where the fire started.

<h2>Nearby orchards under threat</h2>

Orchards adjoining the area are under threat from the blaze and firefighters are struggling to contain it and stop it from spreading to orchards where farmers grow tomatoes and flowers.

"We are working to protect the orchards," said fireman Major Godoy. However, he said that "the wind is blowing the fire towards them and the sparks fly a long way."

<h2>Brazil, wildfires and August</h2>

According to the data from Brazil's National Institute for Space Research (Inpe), satellites in August detected over 38,000 fires — 38,266 to be exact. This is more than double compared to the fires in the Amazon rainforest in 2023, and the highest — by about 38 per cent, for this month in over a decade — since 2010.

This 14-year high, as per a Reuters report, comes after fire hotspots in August surged to a two-decade high and as Brazil battles the second straight year of extreme drought.

As per the report in the naturally wet, moist biome, fires usually start due to cattle ranching as people convert the jungle into pastures. Dry conditions and warm air aid the spread of these fires, which burn more intensely and for longer.

In August, thousands of fires were driven by a combination of weather, climate change and human action, said Helga Correa, a conservation specialist at WWF-Brasil, in an initial assessment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:131,&quot;w&quot;:582,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1817}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-deploys-1500-firefighters-to-tackle-amazon-wildfires-amidst-severe-drought-752469">Brazil deploys 1,500 firefighters to tackle Amazon wildfires amidst severe drought</a>

"The region where we detected concentrated smoke in August coincides with the so-called Arch of Deforestation, which includes the north of Rondonia, the south of Amazonas and the southwest of Para," said Correa.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the Brazilian capital, a massive wildfire has destroyed about 20 per cent of a forest, cloaking the city in a cloud of grey-white smoke. The blaze, as per officials, was believed to have been started by arsonists.

In the Brazilian capital, a massive wildfire has destroyed about 20 per cent of a forest, cloaking the city in a cloud of grey-white smoke. The blaze, as per officials, was believed to have been started by arsonists. Conservation area As per Reuters, the National Forest of Brasília is a conservation area that stretches to over 5,600 hectares of woodland home to springs that are the source of over 70 per cent of the city's freshwater. "We have put out three of the four blazes, and we hope to have the fire under control by the end of the day," said Fabio dos Santos Miranda. Miranda, who manages the forest in an interview, added that they were "sure this was an environmental crime, but we haven't confirmed if it was intentional or not." He added that three suspected arsonists were seen in the area where the fire started. Nearby orchards under threat Orchards adjoining the area are under threat from the blaze and firefighters are struggling to contain it and stop it from spreading to orchards where farmers grow tomatoes and flowers. "We are working to protect the orchards," said fireman Major Godoy. However, he said that "the wind is blowing the fire towards them and the sparks fly a long way." Brazil, wildfires and August According to the data from Brazil's National Institute for Space Research (Inpe), satellites in August detected over 38,000 fires — 38,266 to be exact. This is more than double compared to the fires in the Amazon rainforest in 2023, and the highest — by about 38 per cent, for this month in over a decade — since 2010. This 14-year high, as per a Reuters report, comes after fire hotspots in August surged to a two-decade high and as Brazil battles the second straight year of extreme drought. As per the report in the naturally wet, moist biome, fires usually start due to cattle ranching as people convert the jungle into pastures. Dry conditions and warm air aid the spread of these fires, which burn more intensely and for longer. In August, thousands of fires were driven by a combination of weather, climate change and human action, said Helga Correa, a conservation specialist at WWF-Brasil, in an initial assessment. Also read | Brazil deploys 1,500 firefighters to tackle Amazon wildfires amidst severe drought "The region where we detected concentrated smoke in August coincides with the so-called Arch of Deforestation, which includes the north of Rondonia, the south of Amazonas and the southwest of Para," said Correa. (With inputs from agencies)

Brazil: Wildfire burns 20 per cent of forest, arson suspected

In the Amazon rainforest, the month of August saw the number of fires surge to the highest levels since 2010, government data released on Sunday (Sep 1) showed. The increase follows a record drought that has been plaguing the biome.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:85,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1771}">How many fires are we talking about?</h2>

According to the data from Brazil's National Institute for Space Research (Inpe), satellites in August detected over 38,000 fires — 38,266 to be exact. This is more than double compared to the fires in the Amazon rainforest in 2023, and the highest — by about 38 per cent, for this month in over a decade — since 2010.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-wildfires-released-647-megatonnes-of-green-house-gas-in-2022-fourth-biggest-source-of-global-emissions-754406">Canada wildfires released 647 megatonnes of greenhouse gas in 2022, 4th biggest source of global emissions</a>

This 14-year high, as per a Reuters report, comes after fire hotspots in August surged to a two-decade high and as Brazil battles the second straight year of extreme drought.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:283,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1969}">Conditions contributing to the fires</h2>

As per the report in the naturally wet, moist biome, fires usually start due to cattle ranching as people convert the jungle into pastures. Dry conditions and warm air aid the spread of these fires, which burn more intensely and for longer.

In August, thousands of fires were driven by a combination of weather, climate change and human action, said Helga Correa, a conservation specialist at WWF-Brasil, in an initial assessment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:444,&quot;w&quot;:582,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2130}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-deploys-1500-firefighters-to-tackle-amazon-wildfires-amidst-severe-drought-752469">Brazil deploys 1,500 firefighters to tackle Amazon wildfires amidst severe drought</a>

"The region where we detected concentrated smoke in August coincides with the so-called Arch of Deforestation, which includes the north of Rondonia, the south of Amazonas and the southwest of Para," said Correa.

"This indicates that, in addition to climate change and El Niño, changes in land use produced by humans play a central role in the increase in fires," she added.

In the Amazon rainforest, the month of August saw the number of fires surge to the highest levels since 2010, government data released on Sunday (Sep 1) showed. The increase follows a record drought that has been plaguing the biome.

In the Amazon rainforest, the month of August saw the number of fires surge to the highest levels since 2010, government data released on Sunday (Sep 1) showed. The increase follows a record drought that has been plaguing the biome. How many fires are we talking about? According to the data from Brazil's National Institute for Space Research (Inpe), satellites in August detected over 38,000 fires — 38,266 to be exact. This is more than double compared to the fires in the Amazon rainforest in 2023, and the highest — by about 38 per cent, for this month in over a decade — since 2010. Also read | Canada wildfires released 647 megatonnes of greenhouse gas in 2022, 4th biggest source of global emissions This 14-year high, as per a Reuters report, comes after fire hotspots in August surged to a two-decade high and as Brazil battles the second straight year of extreme drought. Conditions contributing to the fires As per the report in the naturally wet, moist biome, fires usually start due to cattle ranching as people convert the jungle into pastures. Dry conditions and warm air aid the spread of these fires, which burn more intensely and for longer. In August, thousands of fires were driven by a combination of weather, climate change and human action, said Helga Correa, a conservation specialist at WWF-Brasil, in an initial assessment. Also read | Brazil deploys 1,500 firefighters to tackle Amazon wildfires amidst severe drought "The region where we detected concentrated smoke in August coincides with the so-called Arch of Deforestation, which includes the north of Rondonia, the south of Amazonas and the southwest of Para," said Correa. "This indicates that, in addition to climate change and El Niño, changes in land use produced by humans play a central role in the increase in fires," she added.

Fires in Brazil's Amazon rainforest 'blaze' to a 14-year-high amidst severe drought

Wildfires in Canada last year released more greenhouse gases than some of the largest pollution emitting countries, revealed a report on Wednesday (August 28). Shockingly, the wildfires released 647 megatonnes of carbon, which is seven to ten times that of the largest national emitters for the year 2022.

This revelation has called into question the national emission budgets that rely on forests to be carbon stores.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:118,&quot;w&quot;:926,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1861}">What research shows</h2>

The study published in the journal Nature revealed that at nearly&nbsp;650 megatonnes of carbon,&nbsp; these emissions were more than that of Japan, Germany, and Russia in 2022.

Only India, China, and the United States emitted more carbon than that from the wildfires. This means that if Canada's wildfires were to be ranked as global carbon emitters, it&nbsp;would be the world's fourth-largest emitter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:263,&quot;w&quot;:586,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2006}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/namibia-to-cull-over-700-elephants-hippos-and-other-animals-for-meat-heres-why-754340">Namibia to cull over 700 elephants, hippos and other animals for meat. Here's why</a>

While typical emissions from Canadian wildfires over the last ten years have been in the range of 29 to 121 megatonnes, this massive jump in emissions is caused by climate change.

Driven by fossil fuel burning, climate change has led to drier and hotter conditions and in turn extreme wildfires.

In 2023, wildfires laid claim to around four per cent of Canada's forests, burning 15 million hectares (37 million acres).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-in-a-pickle-once-again-another-childless-ladies-comment-comes-to-light-754360">JD Vance in a pickle once again: Another 'childless ladies' comment comes to light</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:414,&quot;w&quot;:926,&quot;h&quot;:25,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2157}">Forests: Good or Bad?</h2>

This finding has become a cause of major concern. Forests are typically viewed as a long-term carbon sink that helps with industrial emissions. However, as it turns out, the emissions from forest wildfires might actually be aggravating the problem that is climate change.

"If our goal is really to limit the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, we need to make adaptations into how much carbon we are allowed to emit through our economy, corresponding to how much carbon is being absorbed or not absorbed by forests," stated Brendan Byrne, an atmospheric scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the author of this study.

(With inputs from agencies)

Wildfires in Canada last year released more greenhouse gases than some of the largest pollution emitting countries, revealed a report on Wednesday (August 28). Shockingly, the wildfires released 647 megatonnes of carbon, which is seven to ten times that of the largest national emitters for the year 2022.

Wildfires in Canada last year released more greenhouse gases than some of the largest pollution emitting countries, revealed a report on Wednesday (August 28). Shockingly, the wildfires released 647 megatonnes of carbon, which is seven to ten times that of the largest national emitters for the year 2022. This revelation has called into question the national emission budgets that rely on forests to be carbon stores. What research shows The study published in the journal Nature revealed that at nearly 650 megatonnes of carbon, these emissions were more than that of Japan, Germany, and Russia in 2022. Only India, China, and the United States emitted more carbon than that from the wildfires. This means that if Canada's wildfires were to be ranked as global carbon emitters, it would be the world's fourth-largest emitter. Also read | Namibia to cull over 700 elephants, hippos and other animals for meat. Here's why While typical emissions from Canadian wildfires over the last ten years have been in the range of 29 to 121 megatonnes, this massive jump in emissions is caused by climate change. Driven by fossil fuel burning, climate change has led to drier and hotter conditions and in turn extreme wildfires. In 2023, wildfires laid claim to around four per cent of Canada's forests, burning 15 million hectares (37 million acres). Also read | JD Vance in a pickle once again: Another 'childless ladies' comment comes to light Forests: Good or Bad? This finding has become a cause of major concern. Forests are typically viewed as a long-term carbon sink that helps with industrial emissions. However, as it turns out, the emissions from forest wildfires might actually be aggravating the problem that is climate change. "If our goal is really to limit the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, we need to make adaptations into how much carbon we are allowed to emit through our economy, corresponding to how much carbon is being absorbed or not absorbed by forests," stated Brendan Byrne, an atmospheric scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the author of this study. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada wildfires released 647 megatonnes of greenhouse gas in 2022, 4th biggest source of global emissions

In an era marked by environmental challenges, the concept of eco-anxiety has emerged as an overwhelming toll on our hearts and minds.

<h2>Eco-Anxiety: The silent struggle</h2>

As people around the world grapple with environmental issues causing climate crisis, ranging from pollution, deforestation, forest fires and heat waves, there has emerged a profound sense of worry and helplessness.&nbsp;

This in many cases leads to a new form of psychological distress, for which experts have coined the term: "Eco-Anxiety".

The American Psychological Association (APA) recognises it as a "chronic fear of environmental doom".&nbsp;

The term encapsulates the psychological impact of ecological concerns faced by individuals as they witness the degradation of our environment and see its visible effects like smog-blanketed skies — daily reminders of the challenges our planet and we face.

<h2>Pollution and mental health</h2>

Recently, the Indian capital New Delhi has been living under a blanket of toxic air, which has made it hard for people to breathe.&nbsp;

There were days when the AQI (Air Quality Index) levels plummeted to a hazardous level of up to 999 in some areas. Naturally, this gave rise to a number of health problems. While many landed in hospitals, others battled a silent enemy.

Recent research has also shed light on the connection between pollution and mental health. Studies indicate that exposure to air pollution can contribute to an increased risk of mental health issues.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-delhi-gets-a-breather-overnight-rains-bring-clear-smog-657159">New Delhi gets a breather, overnight rains bring relief, clear smog</a>

Talking to WION, Shannon Olsson, a chemical ecologist with over 20 years of experience said that for Delhi, the well-known pollution causes like vehicular emissions, stubble burning etc "come together in (a) perfect storm to create these incredibly high pollution levels which are really a little hard to comprehend even when you're in Delhi".

<h2>A sense of helplessness&nbsp;</h2>

Olsson, who is the Danish Academy of Technical Sciences (ATV) Special Scientific Envoy to India, said that natural disasters, coupled with wars and the many crises lead to a "helplessness that you feel as an individual".

"You feel like, what can I possibly do to try to control this? It feels like you have very little control and that produces obviously a fear because also these things are dangerous."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltic-sea-situation-dire-due-to-human-activities-and-global-warming-report-654606">Baltic Sea in 'dire' state due to human activities and global warming: Report</a>

Olsson, the Founder and Global Director at the echo network says that eco-anxiety can manifest helplessness similar to what one feels when "they've lost a loved one or lost a job," which then "causes huge anxiety" especially among "children and our youth who are growing up in these environments where they feel very, very insecure about their own futures."

This sense of helplessness is also felt by parents.

Talking to WION, Neha Sonawane, a lawyer and a new mother, summed up the eco-anxiety felt by parents in one line: "As I started on this journey of parenthood, it is mostly this feeling of overwhelming sense of responsibility for the world".

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<h5>"My child would inherit the reality of climate change along with man made disasters and wars".</h5>
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"I don't know how much my small footprint matters in this larger carbon footprint, but I can try and I can hope that I teach my child a kind, more sustainable method of living," she added.

<h2>How to deal with eco-anxiety?</h2>

Like any other mental health concern, seeking professional help is a must. Along with that, it takes effort.

"Anything like air pollution, it can't be dealt with by one person, it requires a concerted effort and I think this is one of the major limiting factors," says Olsson.

Living sustainably is another way.

"There are lots of ways that we can reduce our impact on the environment by reusing items by reducing our usage of things like plastic by trying to walk as much as possible by trying to reduce or trying to take public transport as it's available to us."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronomers-want-to-give-space-a-socially-conscious-makeover-push-for-renaming-magellan-galaxies-658473">Scientists call to rename Magellan galaxies alleging their namesake had a violent legacy</a>

"There's many things that we can do and there's lots of alternatives coming out all the time so just keeping our minds open to what is available to us. And there's lots of cool startups in India right now that are doing really great things, really wonderful, sustainable things that helps me a lot because it helps me to know that there are really wonderful people doing great things and that reduces my anxiety by just seeing that light in other people," she adds.

However, as per Olsson, all is not bad.

"As a scientist I can tell you if you look at the statistics, the world is actually getting better. Overall, people are living better, things are getting better. The world is actually not as bad as it seems. We just have to keep that hope and keep trying."&nbsp;

"So the important thing I say is, do not give up, do not just sit down and say there's nothing, the world is ending. Because it's not."

In an era marked by environmental challenges, the concept of eco-anxiety has emerged as an overwhelming toll on our hearts and minds. Eco-Anxiety: The silent struggle As people around the world grapple with environmental issues causing climate crisis, ranging from pollution, deforestation, forest fires and heat waves, there has emerged a profound sense of worry and helplessness.

In an era marked by environmental challenges, the concept of eco-anxiety has emerged as an overwhelming toll on our hearts and minds. Eco-Anxiety: The silent struggle As people around the world grapple with environmental issues causing climate crisis, ranging from pollution, deforestation, forest fires and heat waves, there has emerged a profound sense of worry and helplessness. This in many cases leads to a new form of psychological distress, for which experts have coined the term: "Eco-Anxiety". The American Psychological Association (APA) recognises it as a "chronic fear of environmental doom". The term encapsulates the psychological impact of ecological concerns faced by individuals as they witness the degradation of our environment and see its visible effects like smog-blanketed skies — daily reminders of the challenges our planet and we face. Pollution and mental health Recently, the Indian capital New Delhi has been living under a blanket of toxic air, which has made it hard for people to breathe. There were days when the AQI (Air Quality Index) levels plummeted to a hazardous level of up to 999 in some areas. Naturally, this gave rise to a number of health problems. While many landed in hospitals, others battled a silent enemy. Recent research has also shed light on the connection between pollution and mental health. Studies indicate that exposure to air pollution can contribute to an increased risk of mental health issues. Also read | New Delhi gets a breather, overnight rains bring relief, clear smog Talking to WION, Shannon Olsson, a chemical ecologist with over 20 years of experience said that for Delhi, the well-known pollution causes like vehicular emissions, stubble burning etc "come together in (a) perfect storm to create these incredibly high pollution levels which are really a little hard to comprehend even when you're in Delhi". A sense of helplessness Olsson, who is the Danish Academy of Technical Sciences (ATV) Special Scientific Envoy to India, said that natural disasters, coupled with wars and the many crises lead to a "helplessness that you feel as an individual". "You feel like, what can I possibly do to try to control this? It feels like you have very little control and that produces obviously a fear because also these things are dangerous." Also read | Baltic Sea in 'dire' state due to human activities and global warming: Report Olsson, the Founder and Global Director at the echo network says that eco-anxiety can manifest helplessness similar to what one feels when "they've lost a loved one or lost a job," which then "causes huge anxiety" especially among "children and our youth who are growing up in these environments where they feel very, very insecure about their own futures." This sense of helplessness is also felt by parents. Talking to WION, Neha Sonawane, a lawyer and a new mother, summed up the eco-anxiety felt by parents in one line: "As I started on this journey of parenthood, it is mostly this feeling of overwhelming sense of responsibility for the world". "My child would inherit the reality of climate change along with man made disasters and wars". × "I don't know how much my small footprint matters in this larger carbon footprint, but I can try and I can hope that I teach my child a kind, more sustainable method of living," she added. How to deal with eco-anxiety? Like any other mental health concern, seeking professional help is a must. Along with that, it takes effort. "Anything like air pollution, it can't be dealt with by one person, it requires a concerted effort and I think this is one of the major limiting factors," says Olsson. Living sustainably is another way. "There are lots of ways that we can reduce our impact on the environment by reusing items by reducing our usage of things like plastic by trying to walk as much as possible by trying to reduce or trying to take public transport as it's available to us." Also read | Scientists call to rename Magellan galaxies alleging their namesake had a violent legacy "There's many things that we can do and there's lots of alternatives coming out all the time so just keeping our minds open to what is available to us. And there's lots of cool startups in India right now that are doing really great things, really wonderful, sustainable things that helps me a lot because it helps me to know that there are really wonderful people doing great things and that reduces my anxiety by just seeing that light in other people," she adds. However, as per Olsson, all is not bad. "As a scientist I can tell you if you look at the statistics, the world is actually getting better. Overall, people are living better, things are getting better. The world is actually not as bad as it seems. We just have to keep that hope and keep trying." "So the important thing I say is, do not give up, do not just sit down and say there's nothing, the world is ending. Because it's not."

Pollution, climate crisis, and more: 'Eco-anxiety' driving up 'impending sense of doom'

There were 13 months of straight heat records this year,&nbsp;but mercifully the streak has halted in July as the El Nino phenomenon began to weaken.

Average temperature in July was 16.91 degrees, according to Copernicus, the European climate agency. That was 1.2 degrees above the 30-year average, but slightly lower than July 2023.&nbsp;

This July still was the second warmest as per Copernicus records. July also saw two of the hottest days on record for the month, averaging at 17.16 degrees Celcius.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-rocked-by-powerful-twin-earthquakes-tsunami-advisory-issued-748322">Japan rocked by powerful twin earthquakes, tsunami advisory issued</a>

Scientists warned that the threat of climate crisis is not over. "The overall context hasn't changed. Our climate continues to warm," Copernicus deputy director Samantha Burgess said.

The severe weather in the recent past included flooding in South Africa, landslides in Indonesia and India, as well as Cyclone Beryl which hit Asia.

A record heatwave in Japan caused at least 130 deaths.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/continents-have-been-mysteriously-rising-for-years-now-scientists-now-know-why-748286">Continents have been mysteriously rising for years now. Scientists now know why</a>

The El Nino is a weather phenomenon that causes the warming of Pacific Ocean and affects climate across the planet.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

There were 13 months of straight heat records this year, but mercifully the streak has halted in July as the El Nino phenomenon began to weaken. Average temperature in July was 16.

There were 13 months of straight heat records this year, but mercifully the streak has halted in July as the El Nino phenomenon began to weaken. Average temperature in July was 16.91 degrees, according to Copernicus, the European climate agency. That was 1.2 degrees above the 30-year average, but slightly lower than July 2023. This July still was the second warmest as per Copernicus records. July also saw two of the hottest days on record for the month, averaging at 17.16 degrees Celcius. Also read: Japan rocked by powerful twin earthquakes, tsunami advisory issued Scientists warned that the threat of climate crisis is not over. "The overall context hasn't changed. Our climate continues to warm," Copernicus deputy director Samantha Burgess said. The severe weather in the recent past included flooding in South Africa, landslides in Indonesia and India, as well as Cyclone Beryl which hit Asia. A record heatwave in Japan caused at least 130 deaths. Also read: Continents have been mysteriously rising for years now. Scientists now know why The El Nino is a weather phenomenon that causes the warming of Pacific Ocean and affects climate across the planet. (With inputs from agencies)

Climate crisis: 13 months of record-breaking heat stops in July as El Nino phenomenon slows down

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law the Climate Change Bill which sets out a national climate change response. This includes mitigation and adaptation actions, which also constitute South Africa’s fair contribution to the global Climate Change response.

South Africa Climate Change bill to enhance fight against Greenhouse gases | WION Climate Tracker

The searing heat wave in west US has claimed the lives of a father and daughter, who had gone missing while hiking in a national park in Utah.

<h2>What happened to the father and daughter in Utah?</h2>

Albino Herrera Espinoza, 52, and Beatriz Herrera, 23, from Wisconsin, died after sending desperate text messages. In their message to 911, they said they had been lost in the park and had run out of water. A search was launched for them on&nbsp;July 12 in the area, which had been experiencing temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

They had been hiking in the park's Island in the Sky mesa, a dangerous area notorious for heat-related deaths. The Syncline Loop Trail there is described by the National Park Service (NPS) as "the most challenging trail in the Island in the Sky district."

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjzif7oiK6HAxWrSGwGHehLB2wQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/mercury-reaches-record-high-as-death-toll-rises-to-27-amid-heat-wave-in-us-739895" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/trending/mercury-reaches-record-high-as-death-toll-rises-to-27-amid-heat-wave-in-us-739895&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjzif7oiK6HAxWrSGwGHehLB2wQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE">Death toll rises to 27 as mercury reaches record high amid heatwave in US</a>

"The report from the NPS stated that the pair of hikers were a father and daughter who had become lost while hiking the Syncline Loop Trail. Dispatch informed NPS of emergency 911 texts from the hikers, reporting that they were lost and out of water," said a statement from the local sheriff's office.

<h2>An area known for heat-related deaths</h2>

In the same area, another 30-year-old woman was found dead last Saturday, apparently due to severe heat. She was among three hikers located by Snow Canyon State Park authorities in Utah, said the Santa Clara-Ivins Public Safety Department, according to a report by ABC News.

<h2>US heat wave led to 31 deaths this month</h2>

Western US has been experiencing a massive heat wave this year, with temperatures in several states going beyond 100 degree Fahrenheit and breaking records in some cases.

All-time high temperature records were broken in several counties in California, ranging from 120 to 112 Fahrenheit.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjzif7oiK6HAxWrSGwGHehLB2wQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/western-us-swelters-under-record-breaking-heat-wave-739413" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/western-us-swelters-under-record-breaking-heat-wave-739413&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjzif7oiK6HAxWrSGwGHehLB2wQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Western US swelters under record-breaking heat wave</a>

So far, 31 people have died in July due to heat-related causes.

Watch:&nbsp;US heatwave: Earth's temperature is 1.5 degrees Celsius higher than average

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More than 70 million people are under heat alerts, said the ABC News report.

 
(With inputs from agencies)

The searing heat wave in west US has claimed the lives of a father and daughter, who had gone missing while hiking in a national park in Utah. What happened to the father and daughter in Utah?

The searing heat wave in west US has claimed the lives of a father and daughter, who had gone missing while hiking in a national park in Utah. What happened to the father and daughter in Utah? Albino Herrera Espinoza, 52, and Beatriz Herrera, 23, from Wisconsin, died after sending desperate text messages. In their message to 911, they said they had been lost in the park and had run out of water. A search was launched for them on July 12 in the area, which had been experiencing temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. They had been hiking in the park's Island in the Sky mesa, a dangerous area notorious for heat-related deaths. The Syncline Loop Trail there is described by the National Park Service (NPS) as "the most challenging trail in the Island in the Sky district." Also read: Death toll rises to 27 as mercury reaches record high amid heatwave in US "The report from the NPS stated that the pair of hikers were a father and daughter who had become lost while hiking the Syncline Loop Trail. Dispatch informed NPS of emergency 911 texts from the hikers, reporting that they were lost and out of water," said a statement from the local sheriff's office. An area known for heat-related deaths In the same area, another 30-year-old woman was found dead last Saturday, apparently due to severe heat. She was among three hikers located by Snow Canyon State Park authorities in Utah, said the Santa Clara-Ivins Public Safety Department, according to a report by ABC News. US heat wave led to 31 deaths this month Western US has been experiencing a massive heat wave this year, with temperatures in several states going beyond 100 degree Fahrenheit and breaking records in some cases. All-time high temperature records were broken in several counties in California, ranging from 120 to 112 Fahrenheit. Also read: Western US swelters under record-breaking heat wave So far, 31 people have died in July due to heat-related causes. Watch: US heatwave: Earth's temperature is 1.5 degrees Celsius higher than average × More than 70 million people are under heat alerts, said the ABC News report. (With inputs from agencies)

US heat wave: Father, daughter die in Utah park after getting lost, running out of water

Days are becoming longer because of the climate crisis, a new analysis has suggested. This has happened due to the mass melting of polar ice, which is reshaping the planet. Scientists have said that the phenomenon is a striking demonstration of how humanity's actions are transforming the Earth and even affecting its rotation speed and axis.&nbsp;

The Moon's gravitational pull and internal processes in the core and mantle were the main forces governing these motions. However, the melting of ice sheets is currently interfering with these natural processes.&nbsp;

The latest paper, published on Monday (Jul 15) in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), shows that water flowing from Greenland and Antarctica is resulting in more mass around the equator.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-warns-against-apollos-180-ft-asteroid-hurtling-towards-earth-at-scary-speed-741412">NASA warns against 180-ft asteroid hurtling towards Earth at scary speed</a>&nbsp;

According to the study, which was also published in Nature Geoscience on July 12, the underlying mechanics of the planet and climate change are causing Earth's spin axis to "shift".&nbsp;

The movement of the Earth's rotating axis with respect to the crust is known as polar motion. In the latest study, researchers at ETH Zurich have improved their basic understanding of the same by using state-of-the-art AI models.&nbsp;

They found that if greenhouse gas emissions keep rising, they will eventually become more powerful than the Moon's tidal force. The Moon has been regulating the constant lengthening of days for billions of years.&nbsp;

"We humans have a greater impact on our planet than we realize. And this naturally places great responsibility on us for the future of our planet," said Benedikt Soja, Professor of Space Geodesy at the Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering at ETH Zurich.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sunspot-ar3738-releases-x-class-solar-flare-triggering-radio-blackouts-in-australia-and-japan-741344">Sunspot AR3738 releases X-class solar flare triggering radio blackouts in Australia and Japan</a>&nbsp;

Notably, the difference in the day's duration is only a few milliseconds, but it has the potential to interfere with GPS navigation, financial transactions and internet traffic—all of which depend on accurate timekeeping, Surendra Adhikari, who is the co-author of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory told news agency AFP.&nbsp;

"It's like when a figure skater does a pirouette, first holding her arms close to her body and then stretching them out," added Soja.&nbsp;

"The initially fast rotation becomes slower because the masses move away from the axis of rotation, increasing physical inertia," Soja said, further adding that Earth is commonly thought of as a sphere, but it's more accurate to call it an "oblate spheroid" that bulges somewhat around the equator, a bit like a satsuma.&nbsp;

"Ongoing climate change could therefore even be affecting processes deep inside the Earth and have a greater reach than previously assumed," added Kiani Shahvandi, lead author of the study and doctoral student, in the press release.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Days are becoming longer because of the climate crisis, a new analysis has suggested. This has happened due to the mass melting of polar ice, which is reshaping the planet.

Days are becoming longer because of the climate crisis, a new analysis has suggested. This has happened due to the mass melting of polar ice, which is reshaping the planet. Scientists have said that the phenomenon is a striking demonstration of how humanity's actions are transforming the Earth and even affecting its rotation speed and axis. The Moon's gravitational pull and internal processes in the core and mantle were the main forces governing these motions. However, the melting of ice sheets is currently interfering with these natural processes. The latest paper, published on Monday (Jul 15) in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), shows that water flowing from Greenland and Antarctica is resulting in more mass around the equator. Also read: NASA warns against 180-ft asteroid hurtling towards Earth at scary speed According to the study, which was also published in Nature Geoscience on July 12, the underlying mechanics of the planet and climate change are causing Earth's spin axis to "shift". The movement of the Earth's rotating axis with respect to the crust is known as polar motion. In the latest study, researchers at ETH Zurich have improved their basic understanding of the same by using state-of-the-art AI models. They found that if greenhouse gas emissions keep rising, they will eventually become more powerful than the Moon's tidal force. The Moon has been regulating the constant lengthening of days for billions of years. "We humans have a greater impact on our planet than we realize. And this naturally places great responsibility on us for the future of our planet," said Benedikt Soja, Professor of Space Geodesy at the Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering at ETH Zurich. Also read: Sunspot AR3738 releases X-class solar flare triggering radio blackouts in Australia and Japan Notably, the difference in the day's duration is only a few milliseconds, but it has the potential to interfere with GPS navigation, financial transactions and internet traffic—all of which depend on accurate timekeeping, Surendra Adhikari, who is the co-author of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory told news agency AFP. "It's like when a figure skater does a pirouette, first holding her arms close to her body and then stretching them out," added Soja. "The initially fast rotation becomes slower because the masses move away from the axis of rotation, increasing physical inertia," Soja said, further adding that Earth is commonly thought of as a sphere, but it's more accurate to call it an "oblate spheroid" that bulges somewhat around the equator, a bit like a satsuma. "Ongoing climate change could therefore even be affecting processes deep inside the Earth and have a greater reach than previously assumed," added Kiani Shahvandi, lead author of the study and doctoral student, in the press release. (With inputs from agencies)

Days are becoming longer as climate change is altering Earth's axis of rotation

Studies on how&nbsp;climate change affects mating patterns of animals have been coming out in the recent past. Now, a new analysis has posited that certain insects may be facing difficulty in finding mates because sexual behaviour is connected to their body colour, which in turn is often affected by atmospheric temperatures.

One insect in question is the ambush bug. Darker male ambush bugs warm up more easily on cold mornings. That will help them get sexual partners faster than their brighter counterparts.

A review article published in the journal Ecology and Evolution pointed out how sexual selection is affected by colour patterns in male ambush bug.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-likens-humans-to-meteor-that-killed-dinosaurs-calls-fossil-fuel-sector-godfathers-of-climate-chaos-729144">UN chief likens humans to meteor that killed dinosaurs; calls fossil fuel sector ‘godfathers of climate chaos’</a>

As per the study, the male insect changes colour to dark based on heat in the atmosphere. It is a crucial aspect for mating, as darker males attract more females.

<h2>What has global warming got to do with any of this?&nbsp;</h2>

The multitude of colours we see on insects is partly a result of pigmentation, which is aided by temperature.

The colouring of their bodies help insects in several ways, from camouflage to attracting mating partners.

<h2>Insect colours and sexual signalling</h2>

Colours on insects is a method of communication too. Besides sexual signalling, the colours also act as protection from predators.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-environment-day-boiling-summers-disappearing-autumns-what-are-we-doing-on-climate-change-729038">Boiling summers, disappearing autumns: What are we doing on climate change?</a>

The colours are "temperature-dependent" and thus likely to be impacted by a changing climate, the study said.&nbsp;The study did not provide conclusive evidence , but it sought to highlight consequences of climate-driven colour change on insects.&nbsp;It is unclear how climate change drives changes in body and wing colour may impact insect physiology and their interactions with mates, predators or prey, it said. 
 
Insects exhibit diverse colours that are specific to species, population and gender.

The colours are produced from pigments underneath their cuticles, cuticular surface surface structures, or a combination of both&nbsp;

<h2>How are insect colours linked to climate crisis?</h2>

The expression of insect colours in terms of quantity and quality can be impacted by environmental factors including temperature, rainfall, and solar radiation, noted the study. Temperature directly affects pigment production. 
Insects in colder environments tend to be darker, as melanin production is greater.

"The selective advantage of this response to environmental temperature is that darker bodies can absorb more solar radiation than lighter bodies, allowing darker individuals to remain active for longer periods in colder regions, which may increase reproductive success and feeding rates," said the study, citing earlier research.&nbsp;

Also watch | WION Climate Tracker:&nbsp;Does climate change affect hurricanes?

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It pointed out that humidity can also trigger colour change in insects, even within the same individual.

Examples are the green forester moth that changes its colour at dusk and dawn with humidity,&nbsp;and male Hercules beetles that switch the colour of the elytra from black at night to yellow in the morning.

All these happen due to differing humidity levels at different times of the day or night.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Studies on how climate change affects mating patterns of animals have been coming out in the recent past. Now, a new analysis has posited that certain insects may be facing difficulty in finding mates because sexual behaviour is connected to their body colour, which in turn is often affected by atmospheric temperatures.

Studies on how climate change affects mating patterns of animals have been coming out in the recent past. Now, a new analysis has posited that certain insects may be facing difficulty in finding mates because sexual behaviour is connected to their body colour, which in turn is often affected by atmospheric temperatures. One insect in question is the ambush bug. Darker male ambush bugs warm up more easily on cold mornings. That will help them get sexual partners faster than their brighter counterparts. A review article published in the journal Ecology and Evolution pointed out how sexual selection is affected by colour patterns in male ambush bug. Also read | UN chief likens humans to meteor that killed dinosaurs; calls fossil fuel sector ‘godfathers of climate chaos’ As per the study, the male insect changes colour to dark based on heat in the atmosphere. It is a crucial aspect for mating, as darker males attract more females. What has global warming got to do with any of this? The multitude of colours we see on insects is partly a result of pigmentation, which is aided by temperature. The colouring of their bodies help insects in several ways, from camouflage to attracting mating partners. Insect colours and sexual signalling Colours on insects is a method of communication too. Besides sexual signalling, the colours also act as protection from predators. Also read | Boiling summers, disappearing autumns: What are we doing on climate change? The colours are "temperature-dependent" and thus likely to be impacted by a changing climate, the study said. The study did not provide conclusive evidence , but it sought to highlight consequences of climate-driven colour change on insects. It is unclear how climate change drives changes in body and wing colour may impact insect physiology and their interactions with mates, predators or prey, it said. Insects exhibit diverse colours that are specific to species, population and gender. The colours are produced from pigments underneath their cuticles, cuticular surface surface structures, or a combination of both How are insect colours linked to climate crisis? The expression of insect colours in terms of quantity and quality can be impacted by environmental factors including temperature, rainfall, and solar radiation, noted the study. Temperature directly affects pigment production. Insects in colder environments tend to be darker, as melanin production is greater. "The selective advantage of this response to environmental temperature is that darker bodies can absorb more solar radiation than lighter bodies, allowing darker individuals to remain active for longer periods in colder regions, which may increase reproductive success and feeding rates," said the study, citing earlier research. Also watch | WION Climate Tracker: Does climate change affect hurricanes? × It pointed out that humidity can also trigger colour change in insects, even within the same individual. Examples are the green forester moth that changes its colour at dusk and dawn with humidity, and male Hercules beetles that switch the colour of the elytra from black at night to yellow in the morning. All these happen due to differing humidity levels at different times of the day or night. (With inputs from agencies)

Climate crisis may be costing some insects their sex lives, suggests study. Here is how

Beryl on Monday (Jul&nbsp;8) brought to Texas howling winds and torrential rains that killed at least three people and left 2.7 million houses without power. Along with this, the tropical storm caused extensive flooding on highways, delayed more than 1,300 flights and caused the closure of schools and major oil ports.

The season's earliest category 5 hurricane on record, Beryl, has weakened to a tropical storm after hitting the coastal Texas town of Matagorda with all the might of a Category 1 hurricane.

<h2>What is a Category 1 hurricane?</h2>

A hurricane, as per the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, is considered a Category 1 if it sustains winds between 74 (119 km/h)&nbsp;and 95 miles per hour (152.89 km/h).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/texas-closes-operations-at-major-ports-braces-for-destruction-as-beryl-readies-to-make-landfall-738894">Texas closes operations at major ports, braces for destruction as Beryl readies to make landfall</a>

While Category 1 hurricanes are not considered "major hurricanes" until they reach Category 3, they are still very dangerous and can bring with them widespread destruction.

<h2>Beryl's devastation</h2>

In Texas, Beryl claimed the lives of three. As per the news agency Reuters, a 53-year-old man and a 74-year-old woman were killed in two separate incidents in the Houston area when trees fell on their homes.

A third individual, a City of Houston employee, drowned in an underpass while travelling to work.

Previously, in Mexico and the Caribbean, the storm killed 11 people, Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick told reporters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-beryl-makes-landfall-in-texas-flood-warning-issued-for-entire-coastline-738966">Hurricane Beryl makes landfall in Texas, tornado warning issued for several counties</a>

"For those of you in northeast Texas, be aware. You will have tropical storm winds, maybe as late as midnight or 1 am. You will have flooding, you will have rain, and you need to stay off the roads," he warned.

While state officials are yet to assess the damage wrought by storm Beryl, Mayor John Whitmire told reporters that due to the hurricane, floodwaters across most of Houston have exceeded 10 inches (25.4 centimetres).&nbsp;

"We're literally getting calls across Houston right now asking for first responders to come rescue individuals in desperate life safety conditions," he said.

Furthermore, more than 1,300 flights were cancelled, as officials ordered evacuations in some beach towns.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Beryl on Monday (Jul 8) brought to Texas howling winds and torrential rains that killed at least three people and left 2.7 million houses without power. Along with this, the tropical storm caused extensive flooding on highways, delayed more than 1,300 flights and caused the closure of schools and major oil ports.

Beryl on Monday (Jul 8) brought to Texas howling winds and torrential rains that killed at least three people and left 2.7 million houses without power. Along with this, the tropical storm caused extensive flooding on highways, delayed more than 1,300 flights and caused the closure of schools and major oil ports. The season's earliest category 5 hurricane on record, Beryl, has weakened to a tropical storm after hitting the coastal Texas town of Matagorda with all the might of a Category 1 hurricane. What is a Category 1 hurricane? A hurricane, as per the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, is considered a Category 1 if it sustains winds between 74 (119 km/h) and 95 miles per hour (152.89 km/h). Also read | Texas closes operations at major ports, braces for destruction as Beryl readies to make landfall While Category 1 hurricanes are not considered "major hurricanes" until they reach Category 3, they are still very dangerous and can bring with them widespread destruction. Beryl's devastation In Texas, Beryl claimed the lives of three. As per the news agency Reuters, a 53-year-old man and a 74-year-old woman were killed in two separate incidents in the Houston area when trees fell on their homes. A third individual, a City of Houston employee, drowned in an underpass while travelling to work. Previously, in Mexico and the Caribbean, the storm killed 11 people, Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick told reporters. Also read | Hurricane Beryl makes landfall in Texas, tornado warning issued for several counties "For those of you in northeast Texas, be aware. You will have tropical storm winds, maybe as late as midnight or 1 am. You will have flooding, you will have rain, and you need to stay off the roads," he warned. While state officials are yet to assess the damage wrought by storm Beryl, Mayor John Whitmire told reporters that due to the hurricane, floodwaters across most of Houston have exceeded 10 inches (25.4 centimetres). "We're literally getting calls across Houston right now asking for first responders to come rescue individuals in desperate life safety conditions," he said. Furthermore, more than 1,300 flights were cancelled, as officials ordered evacuations in some beach towns. (With inputs from agencies)

Hurricane Beryl batters Texas: Three dead, 1,300 flights cancelled, 2.7 million homes without power

In preparation for the battering, it will receive at the hands of Hurricane Beryl, Texas on Sunday (Jul&nbsp;7) closed operations and vessel traffic in its largest ports. The decision was taken as Beryl approached the Texas coast near Houston.

<h2>Hurricane Beryl</h2>

An update from the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) said that Hurricane Beryl, which left a trail of destruction in the Caribbean and killed at least 11 people, is now a category 1 hurricane. It is expected to strengthen into a Category 2 hurricane.&nbsp;

Condition "Zulu" i.e. — when weather advisories indicate that sustained gale force winds (39–54 mph/34–47 knots) from a tropical or hurricane force storm are predicted to make landfall at the port within 12 hours — was declared by the coast guard captains on Sunday.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beryl-strengthens-hurricane-watch-issued-for-texas-coast-738574">US: Hurricane Beryl strengthens, alert issued for Texas coast</a>

Following this, the ports of Corpus Christi, Houston, Galveston, Freeport and Texas City said they have closed all vessel movement and cargo operations. &nbsp;

Beryl is expected to make landfall between the port City of Corpus Christi and Galveston Island early on Monday (Jul 8).&nbsp;

<h2>Evacuations carried out</h2>

As a precautionary measure parts of coastal Texas have been evacuated, reported news agency&nbsp;AFP.

The NHC in its update said that topical storm Beryl's winds were reaching 70 miles (110 kilometers) and it is expected to regain Hurricane status (winds reaching 119 kilometres or 74 miles).

Houston Mayor John Whitmire warned the public and said, "We have to take Beryl very, very seriously."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-braces-for-destruction-as-deadly-hurricane-beryl-heads-towards-it-with-130-mph-winds-737774">Mexico braces for destruction as 'deadly' hurricane Beryl heads towards it with 130 mph winds</a>

"Our worst enemy is complacency," he added.

On Sunday, several areas of the Texas coast were under hurricane warning.&nbsp;

Several areas of the Texas coast were under hurricane and storm warnings on Sunday.&nbsp;

The NHC in its update also warned of flash flooding in some areas, as Beryl is expected to bring with it rainfall of up to 15 inches (38 centimetres).

(With inputs from agencies)

In preparation for the battering, it will receive at the hands of Hurricane Beryl, Texas on Sunday (Jul 7) closed operations and vessel traffic in its largest ports.

In preparation for the battering, it will receive at the hands of Hurricane Beryl, Texas on Sunday (Jul 7) closed operations and vessel traffic in its largest ports. The decision was taken as Beryl approached the Texas coast near Houston. Hurricane Beryl An update from the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) said that Hurricane Beryl, which left a trail of destruction in the Caribbean and killed at least 11 people, is now a category 1 hurricane. It is expected to strengthen into a Category 2 hurricane. Condition "Zulu" i.e. — when weather advisories indicate that sustained gale force winds (39–54 mph/34–47 knots) from a tropical or hurricane force storm are predicted to make landfall at the port within 12 hours — was declared by the coast guard captains on Sunday. Also read | US: Hurricane Beryl strengthens, alert issued for Texas coast Following this, the ports of Corpus Christi, Houston, Galveston, Freeport and Texas City said they have closed all vessel movement and cargo operations. Beryl is expected to make landfall between the port City of Corpus Christi and Galveston Island early on Monday (Jul 8). Evacuations carried out As a precautionary measure parts of coastal Texas have been evacuated, reported news agency AFP. The NHC in its update said that topical storm Beryl's winds were reaching 70 miles (110 kilometers) and it is expected to regain Hurricane status (winds reaching 119 kilometres or 74 miles). Houston Mayor John Whitmire warned the public and said, "We have to take Beryl very, very seriously." Also read | Mexico braces for destruction as 'deadly' hurricane Beryl heads towards it with 130 mph winds "Our worst enemy is complacency," he added. On Sunday, several areas of the Texas coast were under hurricane warning. Several areas of the Texas coast were under hurricane and storm warnings on Sunday. The NHC in its update also warned of flash flooding in some areas, as Beryl is expected to bring with it rainfall of up to 15 inches (38 centimetres). (With inputs from agencies)

Texas closes operations at major ports, braces for destruction as Beryl readies to make landfall

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