Venezuela has been devastated by two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, leaving at least 164 people dead and 971 injured. The back-to-back tremors, among the strongest to hit the country in more than a century, caused widespread destruction, collapsing buildings and trapping many people beneath the rubble. Authorities have declared a state of emergency as rescue teams continue intensive search operations in the hardest-hit regions, including areas near Caracas. The United States has announced disaster assistance and humanitarian support, while several countries have offered aid. Officials warn that the death toll may rise as recovery efforts continue. (PC: X)

At least 32 people have been killed and more than 700 injured after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela just one minute apart, authorities said. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez said La Guaira state, north of Caracas, suffered the worst damage, with dozens of buildings collapsing. Rescue teams are searching through the rubble in Caracas as people trapped inside damaged structures call for help. The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, hit during a national holiday when many residents were at home. Officials warned the death toll could rise as emergency crews continue rescue and recovery operations. (PC: BBC)

A powerful heatwave has gripped western Europe, bringing record-breaking temperatures to France, the UK and Spain. France recorded its hottest day since national records began, while the UK registered its hottest June day and Spain saw its highest June daily average temperature since 1950. Temperatures climbed above 40°C in several areas, prompting red heat alerts, early closures of landmarks, power outages and heightened wildfire risks. Authorities have urged people to stay indoors and take precautions as millions face extreme heat. Forecasters expect temperatures to begin easing from Friday across parts of western Europe.  

An event focused on helping cities adapt to extreme heat was cancelled in London after soaring temperatures made it unsafe for attendees. The meeting, part of London Climate Action Week, was due to take place at the London School of Economics but organisers said the building lacked cooling systems. The cancellation comes as a Met Office red heat warning remains in place across London and parts of England, with temperatures expected to reach 37°C. The heatwave has also caused school closures and raised concerns about travel disruptions. Officials have urged people to stay hydrated and avoid unnecessary travel during the extreme weather. (PC: BBC)

A magnitude 5.6 earthquake struck northern California in the United States on Wednesday morning, sending tremors across the San Francisco Bay Area. The quake occurred near Redwood Valley in California's Mendocino County at around 8:10 a.m. local time, according to the US Geological Survey. A smaller 2.5-magnitude aftershock followed shortly afterwards in the same area. Authorities said there was no tsunami threat. As of the latest update, no injuries or major property damage had been reported. US officials are continuing to assess the situation, while California Governor Gavin Newsom is monitoring developments.

France recorded its hottest day since weather records began in 1947 as a severe heatwave continued across Europe. Temperatures crossed 40°C in Paris and several other cities, while southwestern France recorded 44.3°C. Tens of thousands of homes lost power and many regions remained under red heat alerts. The heatwave has caused deaths, including several drowning incidents, and raised concerns about wildfires and drought. Tourist attractions such as the Louvre Museum and the Eiffel Tower reduced operating hours. Weather agencies expect some relief later this week, but thunderstorms and flash floods may follow the extreme heat. (PC: Reuters)

France is facing a growing debate over the use of air conditioning as a record heatwave pushes temperatures close to 40°C. Thousands of schools have closed and hospitals are struggling with the extreme heat. Only about 25% of French homes have air conditioning, far lower than many other countries. While environmental groups have long opposed its widespread use, some leaders now say it is necessary. “There are places where we just can’t do without it now,” said Green Party leader Marie Tondelier. Politicians are proposing plans to expand air conditioning in schools, hospitals and homes across France. (PC: AFP via Getty Images)

A severe heatwave is sweeping across Europe, with temperatures rising above 44°C in some areas. France recorded its hottest day in nearly 80 years, while several countries issued health warnings. The extreme heat has caused dozens of deaths, including drowning and heatstroke cases. Schools closed, trains were delayed and tourist attractions reduced operating hours. Experts say a rare "heat dome" is trapping hot air over the continent. Farmers, workers and businesses are also facing challenges due to the heat. Weather experts warn that climate change is making heatwaves more frequent, longer and more intense across Europe. (PC: Reuters)

France is battling an intense heatwave that has pushed temperatures to record levels, with highs of up to 43°C forecast in parts of the country. More than half of France remains under red heat alerts, while around 68,000 homes in Brittany are without electricity following weather-related disruptions. Authorities say the country recorded its hottest day and hottest night since records began. The extreme heat has also increased the risk of wildfires and contributed to dozens of drowning deaths. Landmarks including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre have adjusted operations as officials urge residents to take precautions and stay hydrated. (PC: BBC)

Mumbai witnessed widespread disruption on Wednesday as heavy monsoon rain flooded roads, uprooted trees and caused a wall collapse in Vikhroli West. Several areas recorded over 300 mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours, falling under the IMD's “extremely heavy” rainfall category. Key locations, including Dadar station, King's Circle and Andheri subway, faced severe waterlogging, leading to traffic congestion across the city. A tree fell on a parked car in Dadar, while residents reported concerns over the season ahead. Despite the flooding, suburban train services and BEST buses continued operating. The IMD issued a red alert before downgrading it to orange later in the morning. (PC: India Today)