Flash floods wreak havoc in northwestern Algeria, killing eight
Severe flash floods ravaged northwestern Algeria on September 2 and 3, 2023, following torrential rainfall. Reports confirmed the tragic loss of eight lives in the disaster.
The Watchers team and our contributors bring the latest on extreme weather, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, space weather, and all things science. We're all about making sense of the natural world and keeping you informed on what’s happening. Got a tip or a question? Hit us up using the form at newstips!
Idalia strengthening, forecast to impact Florida as Category 2 or 3 hurricane
Tropical Storm “Idalia” formed in the Caribbean Sea on Sunday, August 27, 2023, as the 10th named storm of the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season. The system is still strengthening and is expected to make landfall in Florida as a Category 2 or 3 hurricane on Wednesday, August 30.
Death toll rises to 21 as wildfires continue burning across Greece
The wildfire crisis deepens in Greece with significant outbreaks across several regions including Alexandroupolis, Dadia, Rodopi Municipalities in East Macedonia, Parintha in the Attica Region, and Viotia in Central Greece.
Tropical Storm “Harold” hits South Texas, marking the first U.S. hit of the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season
Tropical Storm “Harold” — the first Atlantic tropical cyclone to make landfall in the US for 2023, hit South Texas on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, delivering torrential rains and localized flash floods in areas along the Mexico border. This sudden impact came mere hours after its upgrade from a tropical depression on its trajectory across the Gulf of Mexico.
Canadian wildfires prompt evacuation of 20 000 as flames approach Yellowknife
Multiple wildfires in Canada’s northern territories have forced thousands to evacuate their homes, especially in Yellowknife. As the flames approached, the 20 000 residents of the city have been instructed to vacate by Friday, August 18, 2023.
500 m (1 640 feet) long earth crack opens in Cocotitlán, Mexico
A significant earth crack, measuring approximately 500 m (1 640 feet) in length and 3 m (10 feet) in depth, appeared recently in the cultivated lands of Cocotitlán, State of Mexico, raising concerns among its residents.
Floods and mudslides claim 21 lives, leave 6 missing in Xi’an, China
Mudslides and floods triggered by excessive summer rains took a devastating toll in the northwestern Chinese city of Xian, causing 21 deaths and leaving 6 individuals unaccounted for.
Vehicles, bridges, and buildings washed away as catastrophic floods hit Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, India
Intense rainfall in India’s northern Himalayan states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand has led to catastrophic floods and landslides, killing at least 58 people, including nine in a temple collapse in Shimla, as of Monday.
Long-lasting fireball over Florida, U.S.
A long-lasting, green fireball was recorded over Florida, U.S. around 01:18 UTC on August 11, 2023 (21:18 LT, August 10). The event lasted at least 15 seconds.
Widespread floods from Glomma River impact downstream regions after dam collapse, Norway
Heavy rains and strong winds affecting parts of Norway since August 6, 2023, caused widespread flooding, landslides and a partial collapse of the Braskereidfoss power dam on the Glomma River. The ra country reportedly suffered the heaviest rains in 25 years.
