A major winter storm has now battered the east coast in the US, bringing in hurricane-force winds and heaps of snow to the region.

Over 6,000 flights cancelled as blizzard batters US east coast

Pics: Tropical storm Ana batters South African countries, wreaking havoc and killing over 80 people

The Hiba storm has reached Lebanon, leaving its mountains and several towns blanketed in the snow. The storm that began on Tuesday night is expected to remain for an entire week.

Hiba storm cover Lebanon's mountains & several towns in a blanket of snow

A severe winter storm has gripped parts of Canada. A snow storm has dumped almost about two feet of snow with a waterfall freezing.

A winter storm has dumped almost about two feet of snow in parts of Ontario & Canada

A winter storm packing heavy snow and strong winds engulfed parts of the U.S. Southeast and mid-Atlantic states, forcing federal offices and schools to close as it threatened to make travel dangerous and knock out power.

Winter storm engulfs US states

Winter has arrived in Washington DC with full throttle packing heavy snow and strong winds as the thick winter snowstorm engulfed parts of the southeast and the mid-Atlantic region. Residents of Washington were forced to hit pause as were the president and other top government officials.

US President Joe Biden left stranded on Air Force One as Washington grapples with biggest snowstorm

Hundreds of thousands of customers in the Southeast were without power Monday and federal government offices in the Washington, D.C., area were closed as a winter storm that was expected to bring heavy snow moved up the East Coast, the National Weather Service said.

“This will be the winter’s first accumulating snow for much of this area, so please use extra caution if traveling,” the weather service said Sunday night.

By early Monday, nearly 150,000 customers in North Carolina were without electricity, with an additional 140,000 outages in Georgia and more than 100,000 in South Carolina, according to PowerOutage.us, which aggregates data from utilities across the United States.

Ahead of the storm, Mayor Muriel Bowser of Washington declared a snow emergency in the District of Columbia for much of Monday. Gov. Larry Hogan of Maryland mobilised state resources, and Gov. Phil Murphy of New Jersey declared a state of emergency for five counties, warning residents to stay off the roads.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defense-secretary-lloyd-austin-tests-positive-for-covid-experiences-mild-symptoms-441857">Also read |&nbsp;US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin tests positive for Covid, experiences mild symptoms</a>

A winter storm warning was in effect early Monday for portions of Tennessee and North Carolina, along with a large swath of Virginia up through Washington and parts of Maryland and New Jersey, the Weather Service said. Up to 8 inches of snow was expected through Monday evening with localized amounts of up to a foot.

The heaviest snow, at 2 inches per hour, was expected to occur right after the transition from rain, meteorologists said, adding that the phenomenon called thundersnow — when thunder and lighting occur during a snowstorm — was likely. The refreezing of melted snow in the evening and overnight hours could lead to additional travel concerns.

In Washington, where a winter storm warning was in effect until late Monday afternoon, the weather system was forecast to produce up to eight inches of snow, according to the Weather Service, which warned motorists to plan for slippery road conditions in the morning. “If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency,” meteorologists said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-are-these-new-symptoms-of-omicron-variant-experts-weigh-in-441953">Also read |&nbsp;COVID-19: Are these new symptoms of Omicron variant? Experts weigh in</a>

Parts of Delaware, Maryland and New Jersey could see up to a foot of snow on Monday, with wind gusts as high as 40 mph. The tail end of the storm was expected to dump about 6 inches of snow across portions of Tennessee and just a few inches across parts of Georgia before moving north.

In response to the weather, D.C. Public Schools announced that classes would be canceled Monday, as did many other school systems across Maryland and Virginia, including several in the Richmond area. In New Jersey, some systems announced closures while others said they would operate with delayed openings.

Hundreds of thousands of customers in the Southeast were without power Monday and federal government offices in the Washington, D.C., area were closed as a winter storm that was expected to bring heavy snow moved up the East Coast, the National Weather Service said.

Hundreds of thousands of customers in the Southeast were without power Monday and federal government offices in the Washington, D.C., area were closed as a winter storm that was expected to bring heavy snow moved up the East Coast, the National Weather Service said. “This will be the winter’s first accumulating snow for much of this area, so please use extra caution if traveling,” the weather service said Sunday night. By early Monday, nearly 150,000 customers in North Carolina were without electricity, with an additional 140,000 outages in Georgia and more than 100,000 in South Carolina, according to PowerOutage.us, which aggregates data from utilities across the United States. Ahead of the storm, Mayor Muriel Bowser of Washington declared a snow emergency in the District of Columbia for much of Monday. Gov. Larry Hogan of Maryland mobilised state resources, and Gov. Phil Murphy of New Jersey declared a state of emergency for five counties, warning residents to stay off the roads. Also read | US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin tests positive for Covid, experiences mild symptoms A winter storm warning was in effect early Monday for portions of Tennessee and North Carolina, along with a large swath of Virginia up through Washington and parts of Maryland and New Jersey, the Weather Service said. Up to 8 inches of snow was expected through Monday evening with localized amounts of up to a foot. The heaviest snow, at 2 inches per hour, was expected to occur right after the transition from rain, meteorologists said, adding that the phenomenon called thundersnow — when thunder and lighting occur during a snowstorm — was likely. The refreezing of melted snow in the evening and overnight hours could lead to additional travel concerns. In Washington, where a winter storm warning was in effect until late Monday afternoon, the weather system was forecast to produce up to eight inches of snow, according to the Weather Service, which warned motorists to plan for slippery road conditions in the morning. “If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency,” meteorologists said. Also read | COVID-19: Are these new symptoms of Omicron variant? Experts weigh in Parts of Delaware, Maryland and New Jersey could see up to a foot of snow on Monday, with wind gusts as high as 40 mph. The tail end of the storm was expected to dump about 6 inches of snow across portions of Tennessee and just a few inches across parts of Georgia before moving north. In response to the weather, D.C. Public Schools announced that classes would be canceled Monday, as did many other school systems across Maryland and Virginia, including several in the Richmond area. In New Jersey, some systems announced closures while others said they would operate with delayed openings.

Winter storm knocks out power across Southeast

Sonny 'Hoot' Gibson was standing in the rubble of his three-story office building in downtown Mayfield, Kentucky, nine days after a tornado destroyed it when he thought he heard a faint meow.

The meow made him think of his office cat, Madix, and at that moment, he was encouraged to think that the cat had survived the storms.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-80-people-dead-as-tornadoes-rip-through-us-kentucky-worst-hit-436158">Over 80 people dead as tornadoes rip through US; Kentucky worst-hit</a>

Gibson said he had spent several days trying to locate the black cat with yellow eyes, but had given up after a few days. The cat liked to greet customers at his business.

However, the tornado itself and its aftermath inflicted so much destruction that he wondered how anything could've survived.

Gibson was standing in the rubble when he heard the noise on Sunday afternoon.

Firstly, I thought I heard a meow, and then I thought my mind was tricking me, so I called his name and he meowed again, says Gibson.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/when-deadly-tornadoes-hit-us-state-woman-claims-superman-saved-her-life-436893">When deadly tornadoes hit US state, woman claims 'superman' saved her life</a>

As the noise was muffled, he called some of his colleagues and they came to help search for Madix. After a short time, the team found the cat in a hole below the rubble.

I was amazed by how incredible it felt to hold him in my arms, Gibson said. In this nine-day period, he probably used up approximately eight of the nine lives cats have, he added.

Madix was largely unharmed, except that he was starving and thirsty. The cat was taken by Gibson to his home, where he will live the rest of his life as a house cat.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 'Deadliest' tornado hits Kentucky

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In Mayfield, where a long-track tornado ravaged the community, the story of Madix the survivor is becoming increasingly popular.

Hearing this story is a blessing because people can see that great things can come from awful situations. If it can inspire even one person, then Madix has accomplished his mission on this planet, remarked Gibson.

Mayfield&nbsp;in Kentucky was hit hard as&nbsp;several areas in the US suffered&nbsp;heavy damages. Reports say Kentucky was struck by the worst tornado in over a century.

A state of emergency was declared in Kentucky and national guards were brought in for rescue effort with several fatalities reported in the&nbsp;Amazon distribution&nbsp;centre in Illinois.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sonny 'Hoot' Gibson was standing in the rubble of his three-story office building in downtown Mayfield, Kentucky, nine days after a tornado destroyed it when he thought he heard a faint meow.

Sonny 'Hoot' Gibson was standing in the rubble of his three-story office building in downtown Mayfield, Kentucky, nine days after a tornado destroyed it when he thought he heard a faint meow. The meow made him think of his office cat, Madix, and at that moment, he was encouraged to think that the cat had survived the storms. Also read | Over 80 people dead as tornadoes rip through US; Kentucky worst-hit Gibson said he had spent several days trying to locate the black cat with yellow eyes, but had given up after a few days. The cat liked to greet customers at his business. However, the tornado itself and its aftermath inflicted so much destruction that he wondered how anything could've survived. Gibson was standing in the rubble when he heard the noise on Sunday afternoon. Firstly, I thought I heard a meow, and then I thought my mind was tricking me, so I called his name and he meowed again, says Gibson. Also read | When deadly tornadoes hit US state, woman claims 'superman' saved her life As the noise was muffled, he called some of his colleagues and they came to help search for Madix. After a short time, the team found the cat in a hole below the rubble. I was amazed by how incredible it felt to hold him in my arms, Gibson said. In this nine-day period, he probably used up approximately eight of the nine lives cats have, he added. Madix was largely unharmed, except that he was starving and thirsty. The cat was taken by Gibson to his home, where he will live the rest of his life as a house cat. Watch | Gravitas: 'Deadliest' tornado hits Kentucky In Mayfield, where a long-track tornado ravaged the community, the story of Madix the survivor is becoming increasingly popular. Hearing this story is a blessing because people can see that great things can come from awful situations. If it can inspire even one person, then Madix has accomplished his mission on this planet, remarked Gibson. Mayfield in Kentucky was hit hard as several areas in the US suffered heavy damages. Reports say Kentucky was struck by the worst tornado in over a century. A state of emergency was declared in Kentucky and national guards were brought in for rescue effort with several fatalities reported in the Amazon distribution centre in Illinois. (With inputs from agencies)

'Madix' the cat rescued after 9 days under rubble following deadly tornado in Kentucky

At least 23 people have been killed and over 300,000 displaced in what has been described as the strongest typhoon that hit the Philippines this year, according to local reports.

Officials said that more than 300,000 have sought shelter homes as Typhoon Rai ravaged the southern and central regions of the island. About 18,000 had yet to return home, news agency AFP reported.

Communications and electricity have been cut off, with officials reporting “alarming” levels of destruction.

Philippine Coast Guard shared photos and videos on Twitter to show&nbsp;the extent&nbsp;of damage caused by the super typhoon, especially in popular tourist destination Surigao island.&nbsp;

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SIARGAO ISLAND MULA SA HIMPAPAWID 
 
Kuha ang video na ito sa aerial survey na isinagawa ng PCG sakay ng Cessna Caravan 2081 para malaman ang lawak ng pinsalang iniwan ng Bagyong <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OdettePH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OdettePH</a> sa isa sa pinakasikat na isla ng Surigao del Norte ngayong araw, ika-17 ng Disyembre 2021. <a href="https://t.co/NDuEC3hOsz">pic.twitter.com/NDuEC3hOsz</a>
— Philippine Coast Guard (@coastguardph) <a href="https://twitter.com/coastguardph/status/1471772137925283840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Mark Timbal, spokesman for the national disaster agency, said that over 18,000 military police have been deployed to conduct search and rescue operations in the affected areas.

“There has been severe damage” in Surigao and Siargao, Timbal said, referring to the areas that bore the brunt of the typhoon.

The storm also lashed the popular tourist destination of Palawan island after ravaging the Visayas and the southern island of Mindanao.

Scores of flights have been cancelled across the country and dozens of ports temporarily closed, after the weather bureau warned several-metre-high storm surges could cause “life-threatening flooding” in low-lying coastal areas.

Watch |&nbsp;Typhoon Rai batters Philippines, thousands evacuated from coastal areas

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Among the worst-affected regions was the popular tourist island of Siargao where the storm gathered wind speed of 195 kilometres per hour and it into a super typhoon, Rai.

Alberto Bocanegra, head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in the Philippines, told AFP, “This is indeed one of the most powerful storms that has hit the Philippines in the month of December in the last decade."

Bocanegra added that the information and pictures that they were receiving were “very alarming.”

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 23 people have been killed and over 300,000 displaced in what has been described as the strongest typhoon that hit the Philippines this year, according to local reports.

At least 23 people have been killed and over 300,000 displaced in what has been described as the strongest typhoon that hit the Philippines this year, according to local reports. Officials said that more than 300,000 have sought shelter homes as Typhoon Rai ravaged the southern and central regions of the island. About 18,000 had yet to return home, news agency AFP reported. Communications and electricity have been cut off, with officials reporting “alarming” levels of destruction. Philippine Coast Guard shared photos and videos on Twitter to show the extent of damage caused by the super typhoon, especially in popular tourist destination Surigao island. SIARGAO ISLAND MULA SA HIMPAPAWID Kuha ang video na ito sa aerial survey na isinagawa ng PCG sakay ng Cessna Caravan 2081 para malaman ang lawak ng pinsalang iniwan ng Bagyong #OdettePH sa isa sa pinakasikat na isla ng Surigao del Norte ngayong araw, ika-17 ng Disyembre 2021. pic.twitter.com/NDuEC3hOsz — Philippine Coast Guard (@coastguardph) December 17, 2021 × Mark Timbal, spokesman for the national disaster agency, said that over 18,000 military police have been deployed to conduct search and rescue operations in the affected areas. “There has been severe damage” in Surigao and Siargao, Timbal said, referring to the areas that bore the brunt of the typhoon. The storm also lashed the popular tourist destination of Palawan island after ravaging the Visayas and the southern island of Mindanao. Scores of flights have been cancelled across the country and dozens of ports temporarily closed, after the weather bureau warned several-metre-high storm surges could cause “life-threatening flooding” in low-lying coastal areas. Watch | Typhoon Rai batters Philippines, thousands evacuated from coastal areas Among the worst-affected regions was the popular tourist island of Siargao where the storm gathered wind speed of 195 kilometres per hour and it into a super typhoon, Rai. Alberto Bocanegra, head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in the Philippines, told AFP, “This is indeed one of the most powerful storms that has hit the Philippines in the month of December in the last decade." Bocanegra added that the information and pictures that they were receiving were “very alarming.” (With inputs from agencies)

Super Typhoon Rai wreaks havoc as at least 23 killed, over 300,000 displaced in Philippines

A natural calamity brings destruction to any community. People are always helpless when the elements decide to turn from their nurturing selves to destructing ones. It's recovery from troubles that defines human spirit and small things give a boost to the communities which are holding hands to stand up again after a calamity.

The state of Kentucky is US is gathering itself after it was hit by a tornado. The storm was deadliest in Kentucky's history. As people recover from damage to their property and things, some unbelievable stories are coming to light.

Michaela Copeland, a woman who had kept her wedding photos in her parents' house was devastated when they were lost as the tornado hit. Her parents stayed in Mayfield, a town one of the hardest hit. She got the photos eventually but not before a surprise.

Strong winds of the tornado had flown some of her photographs to Breckinridge County, a town 225 km (140 miles) away!

In the aftermath of the tornado, people in the region formed Facebook groups to better co-ordinate the rescue and salvage effort. These groups also shared information about lost items.

Three of Michaela Copeland's photos were uploaded on one such groups 'Quad State Tornado Found Items'. People started tagging her, much to her surprise over the fact the pics were carried by the winds for nore than 200 kms away.

"When I found out and was tagged in each photo that was found, I got chills down my spine and thought it was so bizarre. Finding one is one thing but three is crazy," she said. She was quoted by BBC.

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday visited hardest hit area in Kentucky.

In storm-ravaged Mayfield, Biden received a briefing from Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and emergency response officials about the recovery effort. Biden said it was remarkable how the area's communities had come together to help each other out.

"There's no red tornadoes, there's no blue tornadoes," he said, referring to the colors associated with Democrats and Republicans.

The president's goal was to survey storm damage and make sure the U.S. government is doing everything it can to deliver assistance as quickly as possible to the hard-hit areas, White House deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters on the flight from Washington.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has sent search-and-rescue and emergency response teams to Kentucky, along with teams to help survivors register for assistance.

(With inputs from agencies)

A natural calamity brings destruction to any community. People are always helpless when the elements decide to turn from their nurturing selves to destructing ones.

A natural calamity brings destruction to any community. People are always helpless when the elements decide to turn from their nurturing selves to destructing ones. It's recovery from troubles that defines human spirit and small things give a boost to the communities which are holding hands to stand up again after a calamity. The state of Kentucky is US is gathering itself after it was hit by a tornado. The storm was deadliest in Kentucky's history. As people recover from damage to their property and things, some unbelievable stories are coming to light. Michaela Copeland, a woman who had kept her wedding photos in her parents' house was devastated when they were lost as the tornado hit. Her parents stayed in Mayfield, a town one of the hardest hit. She got the photos eventually but not before a surprise. Strong winds of the tornado had flown some of her photographs to Breckinridge County, a town 225 km (140 miles) away! In the aftermath of the tornado, people in the region formed Facebook groups to better co-ordinate the rescue and salvage effort. These groups also shared information about lost items. Three of Michaela Copeland's photos were uploaded on one such groups 'Quad State Tornado Found Items'. People started tagging her, much to her surprise over the fact the pics were carried by the winds for nore than 200 kms away. "When I found out and was tagged in each photo that was found, I got chills down my spine and thought it was so bizarre. Finding one is one thing but three is crazy," she said. She was quoted by BBC. US President Joe Biden on Wednesday visited hardest hit area in Kentucky. In storm-ravaged Mayfield, Biden received a briefing from Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and emergency response officials about the recovery effort. Biden said it was remarkable how the area's communities had come together to help each other out. "There's no red tornadoes, there's no blue tornadoes," he said, referring to the colors associated with Democrats and Republicans. The president's goal was to survey storm damage and make sure the U.S. government is doing everything it can to deliver assistance as quickly as possible to the hard-hit areas, White House deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters on the flight from Washington. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has sent search-and-rescue and emergency response teams to Kentucky, along with teams to help survivors register for assistance. (With inputs from agencies)

Photos lost in Kentucky tornado found in town 225 kms away

US President Joe Biden walked through the battered remains of Kentucky cities to get a first-hand view of the destruction wrought by one of the deadliest tornado outbreaks which killed dozens and left thousands stranded.

Kentucky storm damage | President Joe Biden consoles tornado survivors

In Pics | Stormy weather hampers rescue operation in Indonesia after deadly eruption

Storms generally bring in heavy rains, but this time, it also resulted in a flood of scorpions in Egypt. &nbsp;

Over the weekend, the city of Aswan, which is located along the Nile River in the country, experienced a heavy rainstorm. It only lasted for an hour but brought a flurry of water and scorpions, a media report said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Egypt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Egypt</a>🇪🇬 : Health official in Aswan has told <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBC</a> that the heavy thunder &amp; hail storm there washed scorpions into the streets &amp; people’s homes - causing 400 people to be stung - in the rains scorpions seek refuge anywhere they can. 
Seems like <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Biblical?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Biblical</a> 🤔 
<a href="https://t.co/ulQfPYXtrv">pic.twitter.com/ulQfPYXtrv</a>
— Watchman (@Judmir3) <a href="https://twitter.com/Judmir3/status/1459582057055670277?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Over 500 people were stung by scorpions forcing a huge rush at hospitals for anti-venom injections. Not just this, more than 100 homes were damaged. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-three-snow-leopards-fall-prey-to-covid-at-childrens-zoo-in-us-429548" hreflang="en">Now, three snow leopards fall prey to Covid at children’s zoo in US</a>

During the flooding, three people also died from electrocution after a wire collapsed. But there were no casualties due to the scorpion attacks. &nbsp;

In Aswan, scorpions are common during the summer when it's warm. The number of stings reported over the weekend was huge. Usually, dozens of stings are reported each year. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ultra-rare-cotton-candy-coloured-lobster-found-in-casco-bay-us-429444" hreflang="en">Ultra-rare cotton candy-coloured lobster found in Casco Bay, US</a>

All the victims were discharged from the hospital after being given the anti-venom injection, the report said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Storms generally bring in heavy rains, but this time, it also resulted in a flood of scorpions in Egypt. Over the weekend, the city of Aswan, which is located along the Nile River in the country, experienced a heavy rainstorm.

Storms generally bring in heavy rains, but this time, it also resulted in a flood of scorpions in Egypt. Over the weekend, the city of Aswan, which is located along the Nile River in the country, experienced a heavy rainstorm. It only lasted for an hour but brought a flurry of water and scorpions, a media report said. #Egypt🇪🇬 : Health official in Aswan has told #BBC that the heavy thunder & hail storm there washed scorpions into the streets & people’s homes - causing 400 people to be stung - in the rains scorpions seek refuge anywhere they can. Seems like #Biblical 🤔 pic.twitter.com/ulQfPYXtrv — Watchman (@Judmir3) November 13, 2021 × Over 500 people were stung by scorpions forcing a huge rush at hospitals for anti-venom injections. Not just this, more than 100 homes were damaged. Also Read: Now, three snow leopards fall prey to Covid at children’s zoo in US During the flooding, three people also died from electrocution after a wire collapsed. But there were no casualties due to the scorpion attacks. In Aswan, scorpions are common during the summer when it's warm. The number of stings reported over the weekend was huge. Usually, dozens of stings are reported each year. Also Read: Ultra-rare cotton candy-coloured lobster found in Casco Bay, US All the victims were discharged from the hospital after being given the anti-venom injection, the report said. (With inputs from agencies)

500 people feel sting as rare storm brings scorpions’ flood in Egypt

At least nine people were killed and 11 others were missing after heavy rain across the Philippines flooded villages and triggered landslides, authorities said Tuesday.

Severe Tropical Storm Kompasu drenched swathes of the most populous island of Luzon on Monday as it swept across the archipelago nation towards the South China Sea.

Four people were killed in landslides in the landlocked mountainous province of Benguet, and one person drowned in the coastal province of Cagayan, the national disaster agency said.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyclone-shaheen-death-toll-reaches-13-as-storm-moves-further-inland-into-oman-418212">Cyclone Shaheen: Death toll reaches 13 as storm moves further inland into Oman</a>

Seven people were missing on Luzon island.&nbsp;

"Eleven municipalities were flooded but it subsided this morning," Cagayan provincial information officer Rogelio Sending told AFP.

Major highways and bridges were flooded, he said, but the water was retreating Tuesday.

The storm intensified the southwest monsoon, sparking a flash flood in a village in the western island province of Palawan, leaving four people dead and the same number missing.

"Around seven to eight barangays (villages) are still flooded&nbsp;due to clogged drainage or lack of drainage," said Earl Timbancaya, a disaster officer in the city of Puerto Princesa on Palawan.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-president-congratulates-journalist-ressa-on-nobel-prize-419808">Philippines president congratulates journalist Ressa on Nobel Prize</a>

"But it's subsiding now."

The Philippines is hit by an average of 20 storms and typhoons every year, which typically wipe out harvests, homes and infrastructure in already impoverished areas.

Because a warmer atmosphere holds more water, climate change increases the risk and intensity of flooding from extreme rainfall.

At least nine people were killed and 11 others were missing after heavy rain across the Philippines flooded villages and triggered landslides, authorities said Tuesday.

At least nine people were killed and 11 others were missing after heavy rain across the Philippines flooded villages and triggered landslides, authorities said Tuesday. Severe Tropical Storm Kompasu drenched swathes of the most populous island of Luzon on Monday as it swept across the archipelago nation towards the South China Sea. Four people were killed in landslides in the landlocked mountainous province of Benguet, and one person drowned in the coastal province of Cagayan, the national disaster agency said. Also Read | Cyclone Shaheen: Death toll reaches 13 as storm moves further inland into Oman Seven people were missing on Luzon island. "Eleven municipalities were flooded but it subsided this morning," Cagayan provincial information officer Rogelio Sending told AFP. Major highways and bridges were flooded, he said, but the water was retreating Tuesday. The storm intensified the southwest monsoon, sparking a flash flood in a village in the western island province of Palawan, leaving four people dead and the same number missing. "Around seven to eight barangays (villages) are still flooded due to clogged drainage or lack of drainage," said Earl Timbancaya, a disaster officer in the city of Puerto Princesa on Palawan. Also Read | Philippines president congratulates journalist Ressa on Nobel Prize "But it's subsiding now." The Philippines is hit by an average of 20 storms and typhoons every year, which typically wipe out harvests, homes and infrastructure in already impoverished areas. Because a warmer atmosphere holds more water, climate change increases the risk and intensity of flooding from extreme rainfall.

Nine dead in Philippines storm

Stormchasers may chase hurricanes and tornadoes for the thrill of it, or even for&nbsp;scientific analysis, but they keep their vehicles ready to make a quick escape when the storm comes&nbsp;too close. So even the most adventurous souls among us say 'No thanks' when it comes to venturing too close to hurricanes. It is perhaps why we don't get clearer picture (beyond a point) of what goes on inside when the winds and even seawater take the shape of something that is sure to kill you.

Thanks to a drone, we now have a video that shows us what went inside Hurricane Sam, the recent storm that formed in Atlantic Ocean.

The dramatic footage has been released by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Check it out below.

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The drone that ventured where no drone had gone before is a sailing drone named Saildrone Explorer SD 1045. The video was shot on September 30, 2021. The uncrewed surface vehicle (USV) battled 50-foot high waves and superstrong winds that gusted up to the speeds of 120 mph (193 kph).

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/winds-on-jupiter-are-speeding-up-and-no-one-knows-why-416727">Winds on Jupiter are speeding up and no one knows why</a>

The Saildrone has been on various missions to collect data which can then be analysed to improve our predictions about a hurricane. The saildrone has fitted with a special 'hurricane wing' that allows it to battle stormiest of the conditions while continuing its main task of gathering important data.

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The saildrone is seven metres or 23 feet long. It has oceanographic or meteorological sensors that enable it to gather data.

The drone is operated by a pilot remotely and it can remain at sea for a year.

Stormchasers may chase hurricanes and tornadoes for the thrill of it, or even for scientific analysis, but they keep their vehicles ready to make a quick escape when the storm comes too close.

Stormchasers may chase hurricanes and tornadoes for the thrill of it, or even for scientific analysis, but they keep their vehicles ready to make a quick escape when the storm comes too close. So even the most adventurous souls among us say 'No thanks' when it comes to venturing too close to hurricanes. It is perhaps why we don't get clearer picture (beyond a point) of what goes on inside when the winds and even seawater take the shape of something that is sure to kill you. Thanks to a drone, we now have a video that shows us what went inside Hurricane Sam, the recent storm that formed in Atlantic Ocean. The dramatic footage has been released by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Check it out below. × The drone that ventured where no drone had gone before is a sailing drone named Saildrone Explorer SD 1045. The video was shot on September 30, 2021. The uncrewed surface vehicle (USV) battled 50-foot high waves and superstrong winds that gusted up to the speeds of 120 mph (193 kph). Also Read | Winds on Jupiter are speeding up and no one knows why The Saildrone has been on various missions to collect data which can then be analysed to improve our predictions about a hurricane. The saildrone has fitted with a special 'hurricane wing' that allows it to battle stormiest of the conditions while continuing its main task of gathering important data. Also Read | NASA has captured image of 'eye in the sky' The saildrone is seven metres or 23 feet long. It has oceanographic or meteorological sensors that enable it to gather data. The drone is operated by a pilot remotely and it can remain at sea for a year.

Want to know what happens inside a hurricane? This actual video will show you

As Cyclone Shaheen moved further inland into Oman and weakened, the death toll has risen to 13 on Monday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The storm has wreaked havoc in Oman and other surrounding areas. Some fishermen from Iran are still missing. &nbsp;

On Sunday as the storm made landfall, a child drowned in Oman. The body of a man, who disappeared when floodwaters swept him away from his vehicle, has also been recovered by the authorities of the nation. Two foreigners from Asia have also died in a landslide in the country. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-child-dead-flights-suspended-as-cyclone-approaches-oman-417929" hreflang="en">One child dead, flights suspended as cyclone approaches Oman</a>

Seven additional deaths from the storm, were announced by the country's National Committee for Emergency Management on Monday afternoon. &nbsp;

Rescuers have found the bodies of two of five fishermen, who went missing off Pasabandar in Iran, the state-run IRNA news agency said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cyclone-shaheen-heavy-rains-to-lash-coastal-areas-in-pakistans-balochistan-417714" hreflang="en">Cyclone Shaheen: Heavy rains to lash coastal areas in Pakistan’s Balochistan</a>

Iranian deputy parliament speaker Ali Nikzad had earlier said on Sunday that he feared as many as six fishermen had been killed due to this cyclone. &nbsp;

The images of flooded roadways and valleys were telecasted by the Omani state television as the storm churned deeper into the sultanate. &nbsp;

The United Arab Emirates have already issued warnings to residents that the storm was coming. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As Cyclone Shaheen moved further inland into Oman and weakened, the death toll has risen to 13 on Monday. The storm has wreaked havoc in Oman and other surrounding areas.

As Cyclone Shaheen moved further inland into Oman and weakened, the death toll has risen to 13 on Monday. The storm has wreaked havoc in Oman and other surrounding areas. Some fishermen from Iran are still missing. On Sunday as the storm made landfall, a child drowned in Oman. The body of a man, who disappeared when floodwaters swept him away from his vehicle, has also been recovered by the authorities of the nation. Two foreigners from Asia have also died in a landslide in the country. Also Read: One child dead, flights suspended as cyclone approaches Oman Seven additional deaths from the storm, were announced by the country's National Committee for Emergency Management on Monday afternoon. Rescuers have found the bodies of two of five fishermen, who went missing off Pasabandar in Iran, the state-run IRNA news agency said. Also Read: Cyclone Shaheen: Heavy rains to lash coastal areas in Pakistan’s Balochistan Iranian deputy parliament speaker Ali Nikzad had earlier said on Sunday that he feared as many as six fishermen had been killed due to this cyclone. The images of flooded roadways and valleys were telecasted by the Omani state television as the storm churned deeper into the sultanate. The United Arab Emirates have already issued warnings to residents that the storm was coming. (With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Shaheen: Death toll reaches 13 as storm moves further inland into Oman

Heavy machineries can be seen removing rubble, they are reconstructing a storm-hit valley in French Riviera. Going by the damage, the disaster may look recent but it has been more than a year since the storm ravaged the French coast.

Slow recovery in storm-hit French valley; one year on, houses yet to be rebuilt

Hurricane Sam continued to strengthen on Sunday as it moved northwest across the Atlantic Ocean, forecasters said.

The Category 4 hurricane was 850 miles east-southeast of the Northern Leeward Islands as of 11 pm&nbsp;Eastern time Sunday, with maximum sustained winds of 145 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center.

A subtropical ridge northeast of the hurricane should steer it northwestward for the next three or four days. Sam should then veer north-northwest and begin to increase its speed but it is not expected to threaten land, the center said.

Forecasters described the storm as “small but ferocious” and said it was expected to remain a major hurricane for several days.

“It would not take much further expansion of the convection and cooling of the cloud tops over the inner-most core of Sam for it to become a rare Category 5 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson hurricane wind scale,” the center said. “Although plausible, given the ideal environmental conditions over the next couple of days, this strengthening is not explicitly forecast to occur.”

The Saffir-Simpson scale classifies major hurricanes as Category 3 or higher, with maximum sustained winds above 110 mph. Category 4 storms have wind speeds of 130 to 156 mph.

The swells generated by the hurricane were forecast to reach the Lesser Antilles early this week and have the potential to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions, the center said. There were no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

Sam, which formed Thursday in the central Atlantic, is the fourth named storm to develop in less than a week and the 18th overall in a busy 2021 Atlantic hurricane season.

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Subtropical Storm Teresa formed north of Bermuda on Friday, becoming the 19th named storm of the hurricane season. Teresa fizzled out over the weekend and “no longer meets the definition of a tropical cyclone,” the hurricane center said Saturday.

After Sam and Teresa, the next named storms would be Victor and Wanda.

If forecasters go through the list, they will turn to an additional set of names approved by the World Meteorological Organization this year. That list begins with Adria, followed by Braylen and Caridad.

“With more than two months to go in the hurricane season, it is certainly possible that the 2021 Atlantic list of names will be exhausted,” Feltgen said.

Last year, there were 30 named storms, including six major hurricanes, forcing meteorologists to exhaust the alphabet for the second time and move to using Greek letters. It was the most named storms on record, surpassing the 28 from 2005, and the second-highest number of hurricanes.

This year, the arrival of peak hurricane season, August through November&nbsp;has led to a run of named storms that formed in quick succession, bringing stormy weather, flooding and damaging winds to parts of the United States and the Caribbean.

Tropical Storm Odette formed September&nbsp;17, followed days later by Peter and Rose. All three storms have since dissipated.

Tropical Storm Mindy hit the Florida Panhandle on September 8, just hours after it formed in the Gulf of Mexico, and as a powerful Hurricane Larry was simultaneously churning in the Atlantic.

Ida battered Louisiana as a Category 4 hurricane August&nbsp;29 before its remnants brought deadly flooding to the New York area.

The links between hurricanes and climate change are becoming more apparent. A warming planet can expect stronger hurricanes over time, and a higher incidence of the most powerful storms though the overall number of storms could drop, because factors like stronger wind shear could keep weaker storms from forming.

Hurricanes are also becoming wetter because of more water vapor in the warmer atmosphere; scientists have suggested storms like Hurricane Harvey in 2017 produced far more rain than they would have without the human effects on climate. Also, rising sea levels are contributing to higher storm surge&nbsp;the most destructive element of tropical cyclones.

Ana became the first named storm of the 2021 season May 23, making this the seventh year in a row that a named storm developed in the Atlantic before the official start of the season June 1.

In May, scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecast that there would be 13 to 20 named storms this year, six to 10 of which would be hurricanes, including three to five major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher in the Atlantic.

NOAA updated its forecast in early August, predicting 15 to 21 named storms, including seven to 10 hurricanes, by the end of the season on November&nbsp;30.

Hurricane Sam continued to strengthen on Sunday as it moved northwest across the Atlantic Ocean, forecasters said. The Category 4 hurricane was 850 miles east-southeast of the Northern Leeward Islands as of 11 pm Eastern time Sunday, with maximum sustained winds of 145 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Hurricane Sam continued to strengthen on Sunday as it moved northwest across the Atlantic Ocean, forecasters said. The Category 4 hurricane was 850 miles east-southeast of the Northern Leeward Islands as of 11 pm Eastern time Sunday, with maximum sustained winds of 145 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. A subtropical ridge northeast of the hurricane should steer it northwestward for the next three or four days. Sam should then veer north-northwest and begin to increase its speed but it is not expected to threaten land, the center said. Forecasters described the storm as “small but ferocious” and said it was expected to remain a major hurricane for several days. “It would not take much further expansion of the convection and cooling of the cloud tops over the inner-most core of Sam for it to become a rare Category 5 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson hurricane wind scale,” the center said. “Although plausible, given the ideal environmental conditions over the next couple of days, this strengthening is not explicitly forecast to occur.” The Saffir-Simpson scale classifies major hurricanes as Category 3 or higher, with maximum sustained winds above 110 mph. Category 4 storms have wind speeds of 130 to 156 mph. The swells generated by the hurricane were forecast to reach the Lesser Antilles early this week and have the potential to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions, the center said. There were no coastal watches or warnings in effect. Sam, which formed Thursday in the central Atlantic, is the fourth named storm to develop in less than a week and the 18th overall in a busy 2021 Atlantic hurricane season. Also read | CDC director explains move to recommend booster shots for frontline workers Subtropical Storm Teresa formed north of Bermuda on Friday, becoming the 19th named storm of the hurricane season. Teresa fizzled out over the weekend and “no longer meets the definition of a tropical cyclone,” the hurricane center said Saturday. After Sam and Teresa, the next named storms would be Victor and Wanda. If forecasters go through the list, they will turn to an additional set of names approved by the World Meteorological Organization this year. That list begins with Adria, followed by Braylen and Caridad. “With more than two months to go in the hurricane season, it is certainly possible that the 2021 Atlantic list of names will be exhausted,” Feltgen said. Last year, there were 30 named storms, including six major hurricanes, forcing meteorologists to exhaust the alphabet for the second time and move to using Greek letters. It was the most named storms on record, surpassing the 28 from 2005, and the second-highest number of hurricanes. This year, the arrival of peak hurricane season, August through November has led to a run of named storms that formed in quick succession, bringing stormy weather, flooding and damaging winds to parts of the United States and the Caribbean. Tropical Storm Odette formed September 17, followed days later by Peter and Rose. All three storms have since dissipated. Tropical Storm Mindy hit the Florida Panhandle on September 8, just hours after it formed in the Gulf of Mexico, and as a powerful Hurricane Larry was simultaneously churning in the Atlantic. Ida battered Louisiana as a Category 4 hurricane August 29 before its remnants brought deadly flooding to the New York area. The links between hurricanes and climate change are becoming more apparent. A warming planet can expect stronger hurricanes over time, and a higher incidence of the most powerful storms though the overall number of storms could drop, because factors like stronger wind shear could keep weaker storms from forming. Hurricanes are also becoming wetter because of more water vapor in the warmer atmosphere; scientists have suggested storms like Hurricane Harvey in 2017 produced far more rain than they would have without the human effects on climate. Also, rising sea levels are contributing to higher storm surge the most destructive element of tropical cyclones. Ana became the first named storm of the 2021 season May 23, making this the seventh year in a row that a named storm developed in the Atlantic before the official start of the season June 1. In May, scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecast that there would be 13 to 20 named storms this year, six to 10 of which would be hurricanes, including three to five major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher in the Atlantic. NOAA updated its forecast in early August, predicting 15 to 21 named storms, including seven to 10 hurricanes, by the end of the season on November 30.

Hurricane Sam, a category 4 storm, is ‘small but ferocious’

Hurricane Sam strengthened into a Category 4 storm as it moved west across the Atlantic Ocean, forecasters said Saturday.

The hurricane was about 1,000 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands as of 5 p.m. Eastern time Saturday, moving about 10 mph, with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center.

The Saffir-Simpson scale classifies major hurricanes as Category 3 or higher, with maximum sustained winds above 110 mph. Category 4 storms have wind speeds of 130 to 156 mph.

The swells generated by the hurricane were forecast to reach the Lesser Antilles early next week and have the potential to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions, the center said.

Beyond the swells, it was “still too early to tell what impacts might occur in the United States,” Dennis Feltgen, a meteorologist at the hurricane center in Miami, said Saturday.

Sam, which formed Thursday in the central Atlantic, is the fourth named storm to develop in less than a week and the 18th overall in a busy 2021 Atlantic hurricane season.

“All folks need to do right now is check the latest forecast as we get into next week,” Feltgen said. He said people should ensure they have a hurricane plan, including supplies, in place.

Also Friday, Subtropical Storm Teresa formed north of Bermuda, becoming the 19th named storm of the hurricane season. Teresa has a small window to “intensify slightly,” but it is likely to dissipate by Sunday and also is not expected to threaten land, forecasters said.

After Sam and Teresa, the next named storms would be Victor and Wanda.

If forecasters go through the list, they will turn to an additional set of names approved by the World Meteorological Organization this year. That list begins with Adria, followed by Braylen and Caridad.

“With more than two months to go in the hurricane season, it is certainly possible that the 2021 Atlantic list of names will be exhausted,” Feltgen said.

Last year, there were 30 named storms, including six major hurricanes, forcing meteorologists to exhaust the alphabet for the second time and move to using Greek letters. It was the most named storms on record, surpassing the 28 from 2005, and the second-highest number of hurricanes.

This year, the arrival of peak hurricane season — August through November — has led to a run of named storms that formed in quick succession, bringing stormy weather, flooding and damaging winds to parts of the United States and the Caribbean.

Tropical Storm Odette formed Sept. 17, followed days later by Peter and Rose. All three storms have since dissipated.

Tropical Storm Mindy hit the Florida Panhandle on Sept. 8, just hours after it formed in the Gulf of Mexico, and as a powerful Hurricane Larry was simultaneously churning in the Atlantic. Ida battered Louisiana as a Category 4 hurricane Aug. 29 before its remnants brought deadly flooding to the New York area.

The links between hurricanes and climate change are becoming more apparent. A warming planet can expect stronger hurricanes over time, and a higher incidence of the most powerful storms — though the overall number of storms could drop, because factors like stronger wind shear could keep weaker storms from forming.

Hurricanes are also becoming wetter because of more water vapor in the warmer atmosphere; scientists have suggested storms like Hurricane Harvey in 2017 produced far more rain than they would have without the human effects on climate. Also, rising sea levels are contributing to higher storm surge — the most destructive element of tropical cyclones.

Ana became the first named storm of the 2021 season May 23, making this the seventh year in a row that a named storm developed in the Atlantic before the official start of the season June 1.

In May, scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecast that there would be 13 to 20 named storms this year, six to 10 of which would be hurricanes, including three to five major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher in the Atlantic.

The agency updated its forecast in early August, predicting 15 to 21 named storms, including seven to 10 hurricanes, by the end of the season Nov. 30.

Hurricane Sam strengthened into a Category 4 storm as it moved west across the Atlantic Ocean, forecasters said Saturday. The hurricane was about 1,000 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands as of 5 p.

Hurricane Sam strengthened into a Category 4 storm as it moved west across the Atlantic Ocean, forecasters said Saturday. The hurricane was about 1,000 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands as of 5 p.m. Eastern time Saturday, moving about 10 mph, with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. The Saffir-Simpson scale classifies major hurricanes as Category 3 or higher, with maximum sustained winds above 110 mph. Category 4 storms have wind speeds of 130 to 156 mph. The swells generated by the hurricane were forecast to reach the Lesser Antilles early next week and have the potential to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions, the center said. Beyond the swells, it was “still too early to tell what impacts might occur in the United States,” Dennis Feltgen, a meteorologist at the hurricane center in Miami, said Saturday. Sam, which formed Thursday in the central Atlantic, is the fourth named storm to develop in less than a week and the 18th overall in a busy 2021 Atlantic hurricane season. “All folks need to do right now is check the latest forecast as we get into next week,” Feltgen said. He said people should ensure they have a hurricane plan, including supplies, in place. Also Friday, Subtropical Storm Teresa formed north of Bermuda, becoming the 19th named storm of the hurricane season. Teresa has a small window to “intensify slightly,” but it is likely to dissipate by Sunday and also is not expected to threaten land, forecasters said. After Sam and Teresa, the next named storms would be Victor and Wanda. If forecasters go through the list, they will turn to an additional set of names approved by the World Meteorological Organization this year. That list begins with Adria, followed by Braylen and Caridad. “With more than two months to go in the hurricane season, it is certainly possible that the 2021 Atlantic list of names will be exhausted,” Feltgen said. Last year, there were 30 named storms, including six major hurricanes, forcing meteorologists to exhaust the alphabet for the second time and move to using Greek letters. It was the most named storms on record, surpassing the 28 from 2005, and the second-highest number of hurricanes. This year, the arrival of peak hurricane season — August through November — has led to a run of named storms that formed in quick succession, bringing stormy weather, flooding and damaging winds to parts of the United States and the Caribbean. Tropical Storm Odette formed Sept. 17, followed days later by Peter and Rose. All three storms have since dissipated. Tropical Storm Mindy hit the Florida Panhandle on Sept. 8, just hours after it formed in the Gulf of Mexico, and as a powerful Hurricane Larry was simultaneously churning in the Atlantic. Ida battered Louisiana as a Category 4 hurricane Aug. 29 before its remnants brought deadly flooding to the New York area. The links between hurricanes and climate change are becoming more apparent. A warming planet can expect stronger hurricanes over time, and a higher incidence of the most powerful storms — though the overall number of storms could drop, because factors like stronger wind shear could keep weaker storms from forming. Hurricanes are also becoming wetter because of more water vapor in the warmer atmosphere; scientists have suggested storms like Hurricane Harvey in 2017 produced far more rain than they would have without the human effects on climate. Also, rising sea levels are contributing to higher storm surge — the most destructive element of tropical cyclones. Ana became the first named storm of the 2021 season May 23, making this the seventh year in a row that a named storm developed in the Atlantic before the official start of the season June 1. In May, scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecast that there would be 13 to 20 named storms this year, six to 10 of which would be hurricanes, including three to five major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher in the Atlantic. The agency updated its forecast in early August, predicting 15 to 21 named storms, including seven to 10 hurricanes, by the end of the season Nov. 30.

Sam becomes a category 4 hurricane

Tropical Storm Sam was expected to become a “major hurricane” by this weekend after it formed in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean on Thursday, the fourth named storm to develop in less than a week and the 18th overall in a busy 2021 hurricane season.

As of 11 pm&nbsp;Eastern time, the storm was about 1,600 miles east of the eastern Caribbean, moving west at 15 mph with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center.

It has been a dizzying couple of months for meteorologists as the arrival of peak hurricane season&nbsp;August through November&nbsp;led to a run of named storms that formed in quick succession, bringing stormy weather, flooding and damaging winds to parts of the United States and the Caribbean.

Tropical Storm Odette formed September&nbsp;17, followed days later by Peter and Rose. All three storms have since dissipated.

Tropical Storm Mindy hit the Florida Panhandle on September8, just hours after it formed in the Gulf of Mexico, and as a powerful Hurricane Larry was simultaneously churning in the Atlantic.

Ida battered Louisiana as a Category 4 hurricane on Aug. 29 before its remnants brought deadly flooding to the New York area. Two other tropical storms, Julian and Kate, both fizzled out within a day at the same time.

Not long before them, in mid-August, Tropical Storm Fred made landfall in the Florida Panhandle and Hurricane Grace hit Haiti and Mexico. Tropical Storm Henri knocked out power and brought record rainfall to the Northeastern United States on August&nbsp;22.

The links between hurricanes and climate change are becoming more apparent. A warming planet can expect stronger hurricanes over time, and a higher incidence of the most powerful storms&nbsp;though the overall number of storms could drop, because factors like stronger wind shear could keep weaker storms from forming.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/murder-rose-by-almost-30-in-2020-rising-at-a-slower-rate-in-2021-415480">Also read |&nbsp;Murder rose by almost 30% in 2020; rising at a slower rate in 2021</a>

Hurricanes are also becoming wetter because of more water vapour in the warmer atmosphere. Scientists have suggested storms like Hurricane Harvey in 2017 produced far more rain than they would have without the human effects on climate. Also, rising sea levels are contributing to higher storm surge, the most destructive element of tropical cyclones.

Ana became the first named storm of the season on May 23, making this the seventh year in a row that a named storm developed in the Atlantic before the official start of the season on June 1.

In May, scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecast that there would be 13-20 named storms this year, 6-10 of which would be hurricanes, including 3-5 major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher in the Atlantic.

NOAA updated its forecast in early August, predicting 15-21 named storms, including 7-10 hurricanes, by the end of the season November&nbsp;30. Sam is the 18th named storm to form this year.

Last year, there were 30 named storms, including six major hurricanes, forcing meteorologists for only a second time to exhaust the alphabet and move to using Greek letters.

It was the most named storms on record, surpassing the 28 from 2005, and the second-highest number of hurricanes.

Tropical Storm Sam was expected to become a “major hurricane” by this weekend after it formed in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean on Thursday, the fourth named storm to develop in less than a week and the 18th overall in a busy 2021 hurricane season.

Tropical Storm Sam was expected to become a “major hurricane” by this weekend after it formed in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean on Thursday, the fourth named storm to develop in less than a week and the 18th overall in a busy 2021 hurricane season. As of 11 pm Eastern time, the storm was about 1,600 miles east of the eastern Caribbean, moving west at 15 mph with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. It has been a dizzying couple of months for meteorologists as the arrival of peak hurricane season August through November led to a run of named storms that formed in quick succession, bringing stormy weather, flooding and damaging winds to parts of the United States and the Caribbean. Tropical Storm Odette formed September 17, followed days later by Peter and Rose. All three storms have since dissipated. Tropical Storm Mindy hit the Florida Panhandle on September8, just hours after it formed in the Gulf of Mexico, and as a powerful Hurricane Larry was simultaneously churning in the Atlantic. Ida battered Louisiana as a Category 4 hurricane on Aug. 29 before its remnants brought deadly flooding to the New York area. Two other tropical storms, Julian and Kate, both fizzled out within a day at the same time. Not long before them, in mid-August, Tropical Storm Fred made landfall in the Florida Panhandle and Hurricane Grace hit Haiti and Mexico. Tropical Storm Henri knocked out power and brought record rainfall to the Northeastern United States on August 22. The links between hurricanes and climate change are becoming more apparent. A warming planet can expect stronger hurricanes over time, and a higher incidence of the most powerful storms though the overall number of storms could drop, because factors like stronger wind shear could keep weaker storms from forming. Also read | Murder rose by almost 30% in 2020; rising at a slower rate in 2021 Hurricanes are also becoming wetter because of more water vapour in the warmer atmosphere. Scientists have suggested storms like Hurricane Harvey in 2017 produced far more rain than they would have without the human effects on climate. Also, rising sea levels are contributing to higher storm surge, the most destructive element of tropical cyclones. Ana became the first named storm of the season on May 23, making this the seventh year in a row that a named storm developed in the Atlantic before the official start of the season on June 1. In May, scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecast that there would be 13-20 named storms this year, 6-10 of which would be hurricanes, including 3-5 major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher in the Atlantic. NOAA updated its forecast in early August, predicting 15-21 named storms, including 7-10 hurricanes, by the end of the season November 30. Sam is the 18th named storm to form this year. Last year, there were 30 named storms, including six major hurricanes, forcing meteorologists for only a second time to exhaust the alphabet and move to using Greek letters. It was the most named storms on record, surpassing the 28 from 2005, and the second-highest number of hurricanes.

Tropical storm Sam is expected to become a major hurricane by the weekend

Giant trees knocked sideways. Homes boarded up with plywood. Off-kilter street signs.&nbsp;Less than a week after Hurricane Ida battered the Gulf Coast, US President Joe Biden walked the streets of a hard-hit Louisiana neighbourhood on Friday and told local residents, "I know you're hurting, I know you're hurting."

Biden pledged robust federal assistance to get people back on their feet and said the government already had distributed USD 100 million directly to individuals in the state in USD 500 cheques to give them a first slice of critical help. Many people, he said, don't know what help is available because they can't get cellphone service.

Watch:&nbsp;Floods Batter United States financial capital New York

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Residents welcomed Biden's presence. They laughed and also posed for selfies.&nbsp;More formally, Biden met with state and local officials in LaPlace, a community between the Mississippi River and Lake Pontchartrain that suffered major wind and water damage and was left with sheared-off roofs and flooded homes.

"I promise we're going to have your back," Biden said.&nbsp;He also took a flyover tour of pummelled areas including Lafitte, Grand Isle, Port Fourchon and Lafourche Parish, where Parish President Archie Chaisson said 25 per cent of the homes in his community of 100,000 were gone or had catastrophic damage.

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The president later met privately with Governor&nbsp;John Bel Edwards, House Republican Whip Steve Scalise, who is from Louisiana, and local officials including Chaisson.

The devastation was clear even as Air Force One approached New Orleans, with uprooted trees and blue tarps covering shredded houses coming into view. The road to LaPlace exhibited power-line wood poles jutting from the ground at odd angles.

Giant trees knocked sideways. Homes boarded up with plywood. Off-kilter street signs. Less than a week after Hurricane Ida battered the Gulf Coast, US President Joe Biden walked the streets of a hard-hit Louisiana neighbourhood on Friday and told local residents, "I know you're hurting, I know you're hurting.

Giant trees knocked sideways. Homes boarded up with plywood. Off-kilter street signs. Less than a week after Hurricane Ida battered the Gulf Coast, US President Joe Biden walked the streets of a hard-hit Louisiana neighbourhood on Friday and told local residents, "I know you're hurting, I know you're hurting." Biden pledged robust federal assistance to get people back on their feet and said the government already had distributed USD 100 million directly to individuals in the state in USD 500 cheques to give them a first slice of critical help. Many people, he said, don't know what help is available because they can't get cellphone service. Watch: Floods Batter United States financial capital New York × Residents welcomed Biden's presence. They laughed and also posed for selfies. More formally, Biden met with state and local officials in LaPlace, a community between the Mississippi River and Lake Pontchartrain that suffered major wind and water damage and was left with sheared-off roofs and flooded homes. "I promise we're going to have your back," Biden said. He also took a flyover tour of pummelled areas including Lafitte, Grand Isle, Port Fourchon and Lafourche Parish, where Parish President Archie Chaisson said 25 per cent of the homes in his community of 100,000 were gone or had catastrophic damage. Also Read: Republicans in six states to adopt law similar to Texas anti-abortion law The president later met privately with Governor John Bel Edwards, House Republican Whip Steve Scalise, who is from Louisiana, and local officials including Chaisson. The devastation was clear even as Air Force One approached New Orleans, with uprooted trees and blue tarps covering shredded houses coming into view. The road to LaPlace exhibited power-line wood poles jutting from the ground at odd angles.

Biden walks through storm-ravaged Louisiana, pledges to get people back on feet 

A swath of the US east coast, including New York City, was under alert Friday due to approaching storm Henri, which is expected to become the first hurricane to hit the New England area in decades.

Forecasters warned of violent winds, the risk of flash floods and surging seas as the storm churned in the Atlantic, with landfall expected on Sunday.

"Strengthening is forecast during the next day or so, and Henri is expected to become a hurricane tonight&nbsp;or Saturday," the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) said in its latest bulletin.

Officials in the New England region, which includes Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont,&nbsp; warned people to get ready.

"All residents are advised to begin storm preparations today, and to pay close attention to local weather," said the office of Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker.&nbsp;

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His state, which will close parks and beaches from Saturday to Monday, was bracing for the high winds to knock out electricity for up to 300,000 locals, the governors office said.

NHC forecasters said Henri was packing sustained winds of nearly 70 miles&nbsp;per hour and threatened New York, as well as the neighbouring New England states with potentially 10 inches&nbsp;of rain in some areas.

Storm "swells could cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions," said the NHC bulletin.

If Henri strengthens as expected and stays on its current course, the storm would be the first hurricane to directly hit New England in 30 years.

"The last hurricane to make landfall onto New England was Hurricane Bob in 1991," Dennis Feltgen, an NHC spokesman, told AFP. That storm killed at least 17 people.&nbsp;

It's been almost a decade since such severe weather was expected in part of the region.

"The last time we had hurricane watches issued for the area was for Hurricane Irene, back in late August of 2011," tweeted the National Weather Service in New York City.&nbsp;

A swath of the US east coast, including New York City, was under alert Friday due to approaching storm Henri, which is expected to become the first hurricane to hit the New England area in decades.

A swath of the US east coast, including New York City, was under alert Friday due to approaching storm Henri, which is expected to become the first hurricane to hit the New England area in decades. Forecasters warned of violent winds, the risk of flash floods and surging seas as the storm churned in the Atlantic, with landfall expected on Sunday. "Strengthening is forecast during the next day or so, and Henri is expected to become a hurricane tonight or Saturday," the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) said in its latest bulletin. Officials in the New England region, which includes Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont, warned people to get ready. "All residents are advised to begin storm preparations today, and to pay close attention to local weather," said the office of Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker. Also read | It rains instead of snow on Greenland summit for first time ever His state, which will close parks and beaches from Saturday to Monday, was bracing for the high winds to knock out electricity for up to 300,000 locals, the governors office said. NHC forecasters said Henri was packing sustained winds of nearly 70 miles per hour and threatened New York, as well as the neighbouring New England states with potentially 10 inches of rain in some areas. Storm "swells could cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions," said the NHC bulletin. If Henri strengthens as expected and stays on its current course, the storm would be the first hurricane to directly hit New England in 30 years. "The last hurricane to make landfall onto New England was Hurricane Bob in 1991," Dennis Feltgen, an NHC spokesman, told AFP. That storm killed at least 17 people. It's been almost a decade since such severe weather was expected in part of the region. "The last time we had hurricane watches issued for the area was for Hurricane Irene, back in late August of 2011," tweeted the National Weather Service in New York City.

Powerful storm threatens US east coast

Tropical storm grace ravaged Haiti hampering rescue efforts as the country struggle to get on its feet in the aftermath of a massive earthquake, measuring 7.2 on the Richter scale, that hit the Caribbean nation on Saturday.

Tropical storm hits Haiti after earthquake, rains hamper rescue efforts

Haiti is caught in a series of unfortunate events. First, the country's president was assassinated. Then, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake killed 1400+ people. Now, a tropical storm is battering the island nation. Molly Gambhir gets you a report.

Gravitas: A series of tragedies in Haiti

The remnants of Storm&nbsp;Fred&nbsp;were moving across the Gulf of Mexico on Saturday&nbsp;and were expected to strengthen into a tropical storm overnight, potentially dropping several inches of rain on the Florida Panhandle and southern Alabama early next week.

The storm was about 510 miles&nbsp;south-southeast of Mobile, Alabama on Saturday and moving west-northwest at 35 miles&nbsp;per hour, according to the Miami-based National Hurricane Center.

It was expected to turn northwest overnight and had a 90 per cent chance of re-strengthening into a tropical storm within the next 48 hours, the NHC said in a Saturday evening advisory.

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"Fred&nbsp;is forecast to regenerate as a tropical cyclone over the Gulf of Mexico tonight or on Sunday, and bring a risk of tropical storm conditions to portions of the northern Gulf coast, especially from coastal Mississippi to the Florida Panhandle beginning on Monday," the forecaster said in a statement.

The storm was expected to drop 3 to 7 inches&nbsp;of rain with maximum isolated totals of 10 inches on the Florida Big Bend and Panhandle by Tuesday.

Fred&nbsp;pummeled the Dominican Republic and grazed the north coast of Cuba on Thursday before moving over the Gulf, leaving thousands in the Dominican Republic without power or running water.

The remnants of Storm Fred were moving across the Gulf of Mexico on Saturday and were expected to strengthen into a tropical storm overnight, potentially dropping several inches of rain on the Florida Panhandle and southern Alabama early next week.

The remnants of Storm Fred were moving across the Gulf of Mexico on Saturday and were expected to strengthen into a tropical storm overnight, potentially dropping several inches of rain on the Florida Panhandle and southern Alabama early next week. The storm was about 510 miles south-southeast of Mobile, Alabama on Saturday and moving west-northwest at 35 miles per hour, according to the Miami-based National Hurricane Center. It was expected to turn northwest overnight and had a 90 per cent chance of re-strengthening into a tropical storm within the next 48 hours, the NHC said in a Saturday evening advisory. Also read | As Kabul descended in chaos, India was ready for UNSC meet on Afghanistan on Sunday "Fred is forecast to regenerate as a tropical cyclone over the Gulf of Mexico tonight or on Sunday, and bring a risk of tropical storm conditions to portions of the northern Gulf coast, especially from coastal Mississippi to the Florida Panhandle beginning on Monday," the forecaster said in a statement. The storm was expected to drop 3 to 7 inches of rain with maximum isolated totals of 10 inches on the Florida Big Bend and Panhandle by Tuesday. Fred pummeled the Dominican Republic and grazed the north coast of Cuba on Thursday before moving over the Gulf, leaving thousands in the Dominican Republic without power or running water.

Storm Fred expected to strengthen as it aims for Florida Panhandle

Meteorologists have now named the sixth Atlantic storm of 2021, hinting towards an above-average season ahead. The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) has bestowed the name Tropical Storm Fred on a low-pressure system barrelling through the Caribbean.

Meteorologists have now named the sixth Atlantic storm of 2021, hinting towards an above-average season ahead. The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) has bestowed the name Tropical Storm Fred on a low-pressure system barrelling through the Caribbean. The sixth named storm of the year usually forms at the end of August. Also read | COVID-19 may become a mostly childhood disease in few years: Study In the coming days, it could lead to strong winds, heavy rain and high seas to the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. Ever since storm Eta, the Atlantic has been very quiet. Matthew Rosencrans, a lead seasonal hurricane forecaster at Noaa's Climate Prediction Center (CPC) in College Park, Maryland, was quoted by the BBC as saying, "A mix of competing oceanic and atmospheric conditions generally favour above-average activity for the remainder of the Atlantic hurricane season, including the potential return of La Niña in the months ahead".

Sixth Atlantic storm may lead to above-average hurricane season

The archery events threw a few shocks.&nbsp;Teen sensation Kim De Jeok of Korea, fifth seed Hiroki Muto of Japan, and eighth seed Dutchman Sjef van der Berg being wiped out.&nbsp;

A lot of talks have been going on the conditions as well, particularly with a storm moving towards Japan.&nbsp;

The Indian archers began a losing note with Tarundeep Rai losing his round of 32 against Israel's Itay Shanny in the men's individual archery contest.&nbsp;Itay Shanny crushed Tarundeep Rai in a shoot-off after the scores were level towards the end of the fifth set.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tropical-storm-nepartak-makes-landfall-in-japan-401062" hreflang="en">Tropical Storm Nepartak makes landfall in Japan</a>

Pravin Jadhav by a long shot the best Indian archer in the positioning round, completing 31st with 656 points, ahead of Atanu Das and Tarundeep Rai.&nbsp;

Pravin Jadhav began well with a 10 at 207 kmph speed.&nbsp;

<h2>Set 1 Pravin 2 - Bazarzhapov 0&nbsp;</h2>

Pravin:10, 9, 10 (29)&nbsp;

Bazarzhapov: 9, 9, 9 (27)&nbsp;

<h2>Set 2 Pravin 2 - Bazarzhapov 0&nbsp;</h2>

Pravin:9, 9, 10 (28)&nbsp;

Bazarzhapov: 10, 10, 7 (27)&nbsp;

<h2>Set 3 Pravin 2 - Bazarzhapov 0&nbsp;</h2>

Pravin:9, 9, 10 (28)&nbsp;

Bazarzhapov: 8, 7, 9 (24)

Pravin Jadhav has been probably the best archer for India in the Tokyo Olympics 2021. Among the three Indian male archers, he arose on top in the ranking round. 
&nbsp; 
A lot of came in as an integral factor here. Pravin Jadhav's&nbsp;certainty, steadiness, ability and all the more significantly adjusting to conditions.&nbsp;

Pravin Jadhav won the third set 28-24 and breezes into the next round.

The archery events threw a few shocks. Teen sensation Kim De Jeok of Korea, fifth seed Hiroki Muto of Japan, and eighth seed Dutchman Sjef van der Berg being wiped out.

The archery events threw a few shocks. Teen sensation Kim De Jeok of Korea, fifth seed Hiroki Muto of Japan, and eighth seed Dutchman Sjef van der Berg being wiped out. A lot of talks have been going on the conditions as well, particularly with a storm moving towards Japan. The Indian archers began a losing note with Tarundeep Rai losing his round of 32 against Israel's Itay Shanny in the men's individual archery contest. Itay Shanny crushed Tarundeep Rai in a shoot-off after the scores were level towards the end of the fifth set. ALSO READ: Tropical Storm Nepartak makes landfall in Japan Pravin Jadhav by a long shot the best Indian archer in the positioning round, completing 31st with 656 points, ahead of Atanu Das and Tarundeep Rai. Pravin Jadhav began well with a 10 at 207 kmph speed. Set 1 Pravin 2 - Bazarzhapov 0 Pravin:10, 9, 10 (29) Bazarzhapov: 9, 9, 9 (27) Set 2 Pravin 2 - Bazarzhapov 0 Pravin:9, 9, 10 (28) Bazarzhapov: 10, 10, 7 (27) Set 3 Pravin 2 - Bazarzhapov 0 Pravin:9, 9, 10 (28) Bazarzhapov: 8, 7, 9 (24) Pravin Jadhav has been probably the best archer for India in the Tokyo Olympics 2021. Among the three Indian male archers, he arose on top in the ranking round. A lot of came in as an integral factor here. Pravin Jadhav's certainty, steadiness, ability and all the more significantly adjusting to conditions. Pravin Jadhav won the third set 28-24 and breezes into the next round.

Tokyo Olympics, Archery: Pravin Jadhav knocks out World no. 2 Galsan Bazarzhapov in 1st round

Tropical Storm Nepartak made landfall in northern Japan on Wednesday. There were no immediate reports of damage and Olympic football matches in the region were due to go ahead.

The storm made landfall in Japan's Miyagi region in the north shortly before 6 am local time (2100 GMT)&nbsp;

The storm is passing south of Morioka city in Iwate prefecture, bringing "strong" but not "violent" winds of 90 kilometres (56 miles) per hour, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.

Football matches are being held in Miyagi on Wednesday. Organisers said that they would not be affected.

Heavy rain prompted some towns in Iwate to issue landslide warnings and a number of local train services were suspended, but not bullet trains.

The storm is projected to weaken as it travels northwest and out into the Sea of Japan by early evening.

On Tuesday, wind and rain to parts of Japan's east coast made conditions challenging at women's triathlon in Tokyo.

Organisers rescheduled some rowing and archery events over concerns about high winds and brought forward the final rounds of the surfing competitions to take advantage of the waves.

Japan's typhoon season runs from around May to October, peaking in August and September.

In 2019, Typhoon Hagibis smashed into Japan as it hosted the Rugby World Cup, killing more than 100 people.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Tropical Storm Nepartak made landfall in northern Japan on Wednesday. There were no immediate reports of damage and Olympic football matches in the region were due to go ahead.

Tropical Storm Nepartak made landfall in northern Japan on Wednesday. There were no immediate reports of damage and Olympic football matches in the region were due to go ahead. The storm made landfall in Japan's Miyagi region in the north shortly before 6 am local time (2100 GMT) The storm is passing south of Morioka city in Iwate prefecture, bringing "strong" but not "violent" winds of 90 kilometres (56 miles) per hour, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. Football matches are being held in Miyagi on Wednesday. Organisers said that they would not be affected. Heavy rain prompted some towns in Iwate to issue landslide warnings and a number of local train services were suspended, but not bullet trains. The storm is projected to weaken as it travels northwest and out into the Sea of Japan by early evening. On Tuesday, wind and rain to parts of Japan's east coast made conditions challenging at women's triathlon in Tokyo. Organisers rescheduled some rowing and archery events over concerns about high winds and brought forward the final rounds of the surfing competitions to take advantage of the waves. Japan's typhoon season runs from around May to October, peaking in August and September. In 2019, Typhoon Hagibis smashed into Japan as it hosted the Rugby World Cup, killing more than 100 people. (With inputs from agencies)

Tropical Storm Nepartak makes landfall in Japan

At least nine people were killed and dozens more are missing after a string of boats capsized in a storm that battered&nbsp;Indonesia's section of Borneo island, a local rescue agency said Friday.

The accident happened early Wednesday in waters off the coast of West Kalimantan where waves as high as five metres (16 feet) swamped a dozen fishing vessels and pair of tugboats.

It was first reported by search-and-rescue authorities on Friday.

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Nine people have been confirmed dead with another 46 still missing, said Yopi Haryadi, head of the Pontianak rescue agency, who added that 81 people on the vessels had been rescued alive.

The storm inundated nearly 50 villages on land, destroying homes and other buildings with nearly 15,000 residents affected.

"The 14 boats actually tried to escape from the storm but it was too strong and they capsized," Haryadi told AFP.

"The storm also battered the mainland in West Kalimantan where villages were inundated by floods. But there are no casualties or people missing so far on the mainland."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-rejects-chinas-claims-in-the-south-china-sea-says-not-bound-by-claims-contravening-international-law-301513">Indonesia rejects China's claims in the South China Sea; says not bound by claims contravening international law</a>

The local search and rescue agency said a military helicopter was deployed to help in the hunt for any survivors, but the operation was being hampered by bad weather.&nbsp;

"Hopefully the weather today will be good so we can find other victims," said Eryk Subarianto, chief of emergency operations at the Pontianak rescue agency.

Marine&nbsp;accidents&nbsp;are common in&nbsp;Indonesia, a Southeast Asian archipelago of more than 17,000 islands where many use ferries and other&nbsp;boats&nbsp;to travel despite poor safety standards.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-plane-crash-family-sues-boeing-for-flying-faulty-airplane-360438">Indonesia plane crash: Family sues Boeing for flying 'faulty' airplane</a>

Last month, a passenger ferry sank off the coast of holiday island Bali in rough seas, leaving 10 people dead with another still missing.

In 2018, about 160 people drowned when a ferry sank in one of the world's deepest lakes on Sumatra island.&nbsp;

And more than 300 people are estimated to have drowned in 2009 when a ferry sank between Sulawesi and Borneo.

At least nine people were killed and dozens more are missing after a string of boats capsized in a storm that battered Indonesia's section of Borneo island, a local rescue agency said Friday.

At least nine people were killed and dozens more are missing after a string of boats capsized in a storm that battered Indonesia's section of Borneo island, a local rescue agency said Friday. The accident happened early Wednesday in waters off the coast of West Kalimantan where waves as high as five metres (16 feet) swamped a dozen fishing vessels and pair of tugboats. It was first reported by search-and-rescue authorities on Friday. Also read | Indonesia grapples with 'worst-case scenario' as COVID-19 cases surge Nine people have been confirmed dead with another 46 still missing, said Yopi Haryadi, head of the Pontianak rescue agency, who added that 81 people on the vessels had been rescued alive. The storm inundated nearly 50 villages on land, destroying homes and other buildings with nearly 15,000 residents affected. "The 14 boats actually tried to escape from the storm but it was too strong and they capsized," Haryadi told AFP. "The storm also battered the mainland in West Kalimantan where villages were inundated by floods. But there are no casualties or people missing so far on the mainland." Also read | Indonesia rejects China's claims in the South China Sea; says not bound by claims contravening international law The local search and rescue agency said a military helicopter was deployed to help in the hunt for any survivors, but the operation was being hampered by bad weather. "Hopefully the weather today will be good so we can find other victims," said Eryk Subarianto, chief of emergency operations at the Pontianak rescue agency. Marine accidents are common in Indonesia, a Southeast Asian archipelago of more than 17,000 islands where many use ferries and other boats to travel despite poor safety standards. Also read | Indonesia plane crash: Family sues Boeing for flying 'faulty' airplane Last month, a passenger ferry sank off the coast of holiday island Bali in rough seas, leaving 10 people dead with another still missing. In 2018, about 160 people drowned when a ferry sank in one of the world's deepest lakes on Sumatra island. And more than 300 people are estimated to have drowned in 2009 when a ferry sank between Sulawesi and Borneo.

Nine killed, dozens missing after boats capsize in Indonesia storm

High waves hit the coast of Dominican Republic's capital Santo Domingo on Saturday (July 3) as Storm Elsa lashed the country, leaving two people dead.

Videos shot in the waterfront boulevard of Malecon showed strong winds blowing through trees and debris on the road.

The two deaths occurred in southwest Bahoruco province, according to the director for the Dominican Republic's centre for emergency operations. Some flooding was also reported in San Cristobal province, prompting about 100 evacuations, while waves of 12 to 14 feet (3.5 to 4.2 metres) washed debris ashore in Santo Domingo.

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Elsa was clocking maximum sustained winds at 110 kph (70 mph), but was slowing as it passed between Haiti and Jamaica, the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) said. Elsa has been downgraded to a tropical storm from a hurricane.

Early on Saturday, Dominican officials evacuated people living near rivers and creeks in coastal Barahona province severe flood warnings.

High waves hit the coast of Dominican Republic's capital Santo Domingo on Saturday (July 3) as Storm Elsa lashed the country, leaving two people dead. Videos shot in the waterfront boulevard of Malecon showed strong winds blowing through trees and debris on the road.

High waves hit the coast of Dominican Republic's capital Santo Domingo on Saturday (July 3) as Storm Elsa lashed the country, leaving two people dead. Videos shot in the waterfront boulevard of Malecon showed strong winds blowing through trees and debris on the road. The two deaths occurred in southwest Bahoruco province, according to the director for the Dominican Republic's centre for emergency operations. Some flooding was also reported in San Cristobal province, prompting about 100 evacuations, while waves of 12 to 14 feet (3.5 to 4.2 metres) washed debris ashore in Santo Domingo. Also read | Iran hit ship thinking it's owned by Israeli who had already sold stake Elsa was clocking maximum sustained winds at 110 kph (70 mph), but was slowing as it passed between Haiti and Jamaica, the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) said. Elsa has been downgraded to a tropical storm from a hurricane. Early on Saturday, Dominican officials evacuated people living near rivers and creeks in coastal Barahona province severe flood warnings.

Two killed as tropical storm Elsa lashes Dominican Republic

'Thin but destructive': Tornado hits Canada's Saskatchewan area

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