• Cloud seeding proposed as a solution for the world’s most polluted city, New Delhi, India

    New Delhi reached an air quality index (AQI) of 495 at 10:54 LT (05:24 UTC) on Friday, November 22, 2024, the highest recorded so far this season. Earlier this week, Delhi’s AQI reached 493, placing it among the most polluted cities globally on November 18, 2024. PM 2.5 levels hit 401.1 µg/m3 exceeding the safe limits of the World Health Organisation (WHO) over 27 times.

  • 160 deaths recorded in three weeks as six typhoons batter the Philippines

    Four typhoons have struck the Philippines in the last 10 days, with the latest Man-Yi having claimed 8 lives as of Monday, November 18, 2024. At least 160 people have died due to storms in the Philippines in the last 3 weeks, with the last three typhoons having caused combined damages worth roughly ₱469.8 million ($ 8 million).

  • DNA study reshapes understanding of Pompeii’s ancient population

    New DNA analysis of skeletal remains in Pompeii is challenging long-held beliefs about the city’s ancient population. By revealing genetic links to populations in Rome and the eastern Mediterranean, the study paints Pompeii as a diverse, bustling hub in the Roman Empire, reshaping our understanding of its people and their connections across the ancient world.

  • Mountain Fire destroys homes in Ventura County, California

    The Mountain Fire broke out in Ventura County on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, and rapidly burned through 5 726 ha (14 148 acres) of land by 19:46 LT on the same day. Containment remains at 0% with the blaze standing at a size of 607 ha (1 500 acres) and being engaged by at least 800 firefighters.

  • 58-day state of emergency declared after eruption at Lewotabi claims 9 lives, damages 2 384 homes, Indonesia

    A powerful eruption at Lewotobi volcano on Indonesia’s Flores Island has resulted in at least 9 deaths and forced widespread evacuations, officials confirmed on November 5, 2024. The eruption took place on November 3, plunging nearby villages into darkness as lava, ash, and volcanic debris damaged homes and led to power outages. Authorities have declared a state of emergency, extending assistance to over 10 000 affected residents.