Superbolide lights up the night sky over Algeria, potential meteorite dropper
On the night of May 7, 2023, a huge superbolide turned the sky into a natural light show over Algeria.
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!
Devastating wildfires engulf southern Russia, claiming lives and property
A wave of rampant wildfires has swept across the oblasts of Kurgan and Tyumen in the southern Ural Mountains area and western Siberia in southern Russia, leading to loss of life and extensive property damage.
Severe floods and landslides in DRC: Over 420 fatalities and 5 000 missing
In a devastating set of natural disasters, severe floods and a landslide have led to significant loss of life and extensive damage in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Freezing rain hits Ontario and Quebec, leaving more than 2.5 million people without power, Canada
A sprawling Colorado low brought freezing rain and thunderstorms to Ontario and Quebec on April 5, 2023, causing power outages for more than 1 million customers or about 2.5 million people. Unfortunately, it’s expected that some of the residents will remain without power through the weekend.
Tourists defy weather warnings, resulting in deadly avalanche in Northeast India
At least seven tourists have died, 20 were injured and many others were trapped after a major avalanche struck near a mountain pass in the northeast Indian state of Sikkim at 06:00 UTC on April 4, 2023. The incident occurred near the Nathu La mountain pass, a popular tourist destination on India’s border with China. This is the road that connects Gangtok to the Nathu La Pass and the nearby Changu Lake – another major tourist attraction.
Homes collapsing under record snowfall in Park City, Utah
Park City, Utah, has experienced record-breaking snowfall this winter, causing significant damage to homes and buildings. The weight of the snow has caused roofs to collapse, leaving many residents displaced and seeking temporary shelter.
Unseasonal rains and hailstorms threaten wheat harvest in India
Unseasonal rains, hailstorms, and strong winds damaged more than 523 000 ha (1 292 332 acres) of wheat crop in three Indian states, causing harvesting challenges and fears of significant yield losses. The untimely rains have also affected mustard, channa, barley, and vegetable crops, among others.
Powerful storm system to affect large portion of the Intermountain West and Central U.S.
A major winter storm will produce multiple weather hazards this upcoming week from the Intermountain West to the Central U.S. that include significant snowfall, blizzard conditions, and damaging wind gusts.
Major early spring storm system set to impact millions in the U.S.
A major early spring storm system is set to impact the central and eastern United States with severe thunderstorms, high winds, and heavy snow from March 31 to April 1, 2023.
Large wildfire breaks out northeast of Bangkok, Thailand
Thai authorities are utilizing helicopters to aid ground firefighters in containing a large wildfire that has spread over two mountains in Nakhon Nayok province. The fire started in Khao Laem National Park on Wednesday night, March 29, 2023, and is currently spreading across mostly undeveloped forest land, located 114 km (70 miles) northeast of Bangkok.
