The Amazon rainforest, spanning nine South American countries, has lost 88 million hectares (12.5%) of its forest cover since 1985 due to deforestation, according to RAISG. This loss, equivalent to the size of Germany and France combined, is primarily due to mining, agriculture, and livestock activities. The deforestation is accelerating, impacting the global climate by releasing more carbon into the atmosphere. Severe drought and wildfires, exacerbated by climate change, have worsened the situation, with scientists warning of increasing wildfire risks. The disruption threatens the lifestyle of 47 million people relying on Amazon rivers, now at historic lows.

A “tornado” struck Luton on Sunday, causing severe flooding and leaving streets submerged as heavy downpours hit towns outside London. The storm created chaotic scenes, with debris swirling through the air and cars abandoned in the rising waters. Motorists were left in shock as a thick cloud appeared to spin above them during the intense weather conditions. The sudden storm led to significant disruption, with reports of cars submerged and roads impassable due to the flooding. Emergency services were called to assist in affected areas, as the severe weather left residents and drivers grappling with unexpected damage and dangerous conditions.

An amber warning for heavy rain is in effect for millions in England until 9 pm tonight, with the Met Office predicting rainfall between 60mm and 80mm, and up to 120mm in some areas. The warning covers a broad region from Gloucester through the Midlands to Hull, beginning at 5 am. Forecasters are advising of potential flooding, difficult driving conditions, and delays in public transport, along with the risk of lightning strikes. Additionally, a less severe yellow rain warning is in place until midnight for Wales, the South, North West, and parts of Middlesbrough, indicating widespread rain across these regions.

Storm Boris has caused severe flooding in Italy, particularly in the north-eastern Emilia Romagna and central Marche regions, following its destruction across central Europe. Over 1,000 people have been evacuated, with two reported missing. Towns like Faenza have faced rising river levels, landslides, and sewage overflows. Schools, libraries, and parks were closed, and transport disrupted. The European Commission announced €10bn in aid for affected countries. Storm Boris previously hit Poland, the Czech Republic, Romania, and Austria, causing 23 deaths. Weather alerts remain in effect as the region prepares for ongoing flood risks.

Severe thunderstorms are expected across large parts of England and Wales, with the Met Office issuing multiple warnings through the weekend. The first warning, in effect from 12pm to 8pm Friday, spans from the West Midlands to the South East and includes much of Wales. Heavy rain, gusty winds, frequent lightning, and possible hail are predicted, with up to 40mm of rain in three hours. Communities could face power cuts, flooding, and travel delays, with warnings of "danger to life" due to fast-moving floodwater. Further warnings are in place for Saturday and Sunday, covering even larger areas.

The Met Office has issued a thunderstorm warning for parts of England and Wales, effective from 12pm to 8pm today. The alert covers the West Midlands, South East, South West, and large areas of Wales, including Cardiff and Swansea. Heavy rain, gusty winds, and frequent lightning are expected, with up to 40mm of rain possible in three hours. This may cause hazardous driving conditions, power outages, and train disruptions. Lightning strikes also pose a risk to buildings. Two additional warnings are in place for the weekend. The public is advised to stay informed and plan accordingly to minimize disruptions.

Storm Boris has caused severe flooding across central Europe, killing at least 21 people in Austria, Poland, Romania, and the Czech Republic. The storm dumped five times the average September rainfall in just four days, forcing hundreds of thousands to evacuate. Rivers like the Danube and Oder have overflowed, submerging towns and damaging homes. In Poland and Austria, emergency workers and volunteers are reinforcing flood defenses. The storm is expected to move towards northern Italy, where more heavy rain is forecast. Extreme weather, worsened by climate change, is becoming more frequent across Europe.

The UK is set to experience severe weather on September 25, as new weather maps reveal 40mph gales and torrential downpours. The Met Office reports that a powerful 100mph jet stream will affect Britain, causing widespread disruption. Gusts will impact much of the country, from the southern coast to the Scottish Highlands. Rainfall could reach 10mm per hour along the west coast. Following a milder spell, the weather is expected to turn stormy again with showers and thunderstorms likely across the southern half of the UK. Temperatures may rise to 25°C amidst the storms.

Typhoon Bebinca, the most powerful storm to hit Shanghai in 75 years, caused severe disruptions on September 17, 2024. Over 400,000 residents were evacuated as the typhoon battered the city with wind speeds reaching 151 km/h (94 mph). Flights and train services were suspended, highways closed, and a 40 km/h (25 mph) speed limit was imposed on roads. Popular attractions, including Shanghai Disney Resort, were temporarily closed. The typhoon, which has also impacted Japan and the Philippines, is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to other Chinese provinces as it moves northwest.

Heavy flooding across eastern and central Europe has claimed at least 16 lives. Over the weekend, intense rainfall caused severe flooding in Romania, Poland, and the Czech Republic, leading to evacuations, collapsed bridges, and damaged homes. In Poland, five deaths were reported, including a surgeon's body found in Nysa. The Czech Republic saw three deaths with seven missing. Romania reported seven deaths, and Austria one. Both Poland and the Czech Republic have declared states of emergency. Slovakia and Hungary are preparing for potential flooding as rains continue.