Heavy rains and snow hit Pakistan, destroying homes and leaving dozens dead

Heavy rains and snow hit Pakistan, destroying homes and leaving dozens dead

Heavy rains and snow have wreaked havoc across Pakistan over the past 4 days, leaving at least 36 people dead and 50 others injured, according to authorities. The affected areas include the scenic Swat Valley, the Khyber district, and other parts of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province bordering Afghanistan. The heavy rainfall and snowfall have caused houses to collapse, triggered landslides, and blocked roads, particularly in the country’s northwest.

Heavy rain, strong winds, and sudden freeze hit Atlantic Canada

Heavy rain, strong winds, and sudden freeze hit Atlantic Canada

On Thursday, February 29, 2024, a severe storm swept through Atlantic Canada, bringing heavy rain, winds exceeding 100 km/h (62 mph), and a sudden freeze across the region. The storm, which started late Wednesday, has left over 32 000 people without power and caused significant flooding, particularly in southern New Brunswick, including the town of Sussex where 100 mm (4 inches) of rain prompted evacuations and street closures.

Significant winter storm set to impact the West, bringing heavy snow, U.S.

Significant winter storm set to impact the West, bringing heavy snow, U.S.

An impending winter storm, driven by an upper-level trough and strong cold front from the northeastern Pacific and western Canada, is forecasted to deliver significant snowfall and strong gusty winds to much of the West in the coming days. Heavy snow is expected in the Central Rockies and Cascades through Monday, extending to the Sierra and the Northern Rockies/Great Basin by Tuesday, with over a foot of snow possible in many areas.

Severe thunderstorm hits Sydney, lightning strikes injure 4, set 3 homes on fire, Australia

Severe thunderstorm hits Sydney, lightning strikes injure 4, set 3 homes on fire, Australia

Severe storms hit NSW, Australia on February 19, 2024, causing injuries, transport shutdown, and flash flooding. The storms have resulted in four people injured by a lightning strike, significant transport disruptions, and the ignition of three houses. Sydney recorded up to 57 mm (2.24 inches) of rain, intensifying the risk of flash flooding across the state.

Massive power outages hit Victoria during violent thunderstorms, Australia

Massive power outages hit Victoria during violent thunderstorms, Australia

Violent thunderstorms struck Australia’s east coast on February 13, 2024, leading to significant damage and disruptions. The storms caused the shutdown of AGL’s Loy Yang A power station in Victoria, leaving approximately 590 000 homes and businesses without electricity. The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) was forced to cap electricity prices at A$16,600 per megawatt hour, a significant increase from the usual A$200. Efforts to restore power are ongoing, with some customers already reconnected.

Strong winter storm over the Southern Plains to evolve into a Nor’easter on February 12

Strong winter storm over the Southern Plains to evolve into a Nor’easter on February 12

Forecasters at the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a warning on February 11, 2024, about a significant winter storm impacting the Southern Rockies and High Plains, moving northeast towards the Northern Mid-Atlantic, New York, and New England. Expected heavy snowfall, powerful winds, and potential coastal flooding are set to disrupt travel and cause power outages across affected regions.

Severe snowstorm paralyzes Astana, Kazakhstan

Severe snowstorm paralyzes Astana, Kazakhstan

A heavy snowstorm hit Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan (population 1 million), on February 8, 2024, causing decreased road visibility and paralyzing city operations.