Delhi and the National Capital Region woke up to hazardous air quality as the Air Quality Index (AQI) surged into the ‘severe’ category, with readings above 400 across multiple monitoring stations and some areas nearing 500. Thick toxic smog and dense fog reduced visibility and worsened health risks, especially for vulnerable groups. Authorities invoked Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) measures, including strict curbs under Stage IV, to curb pollution and recommended work-from-home and hybrid learning for students. The smog persists due to stagnant weather and trapped pollutants, prompting health advisories. 

The Met Office has issued severe weather warnings as heavy rain and flooding hit parts of the UK. An amber warning is in effect in Cumbria from Sunday 6am to Monday 6pm, with over 200mm of rain possible. Dumfries, Galloway, and the Scottish borders also face amber alerts. Yellow warnings cover western Scotland, Northern Ireland, western Wales, and northwest England. Fast-flowing rivers and deep floodwater pose a danger to life, officials said. Residents are urged to follow local advice, avoid driving through floodwater, and stay updated. Southern England will remain mostly dry with frost and fog in some areas. (PC: Sky News)

Kolkata’s air quality has deteriorated sharply, recording **worse Air Quality Index (AQI) levels than Delhi for seven straight days between December 6 and 12. According to data from AQI monitoring sites, Kolkata’s AQI varied from 184 to 439, with peaks reaching the ‘severe’ and even ‘hazardous’ categories, surpassing Delhi’s readings during the same period. On one day, Kolkata hit an alarming AQI of 558, higher than Delhi’s worst at 477. Experts warn that prolonged exposure poses serious health risks, especially for children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions. Authorities have not yet issued official statements on the crisis. (PC: The Telegraph)

The Centre told the Rajya Sabha that there is no official global country-wise air pollution ranking and widely cited international indices like the IQAir World Air Quality Report, WHO database, EPI and GBD are not conducted by any official authority. Countries, including India, set their own air quality standards based on local geography, environment, socio-economic factors and national circumstances. India’s National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for 12 pollutants, notified in 2009, are tailored to domestic needs. The government also conducts annual Swachh Vayu Survekshan to rank cities under the National Clean Air Programme. (PC: NDTV)

The Indian government informed Parliament that global air quality rankings by organizations like IQAir, WHO, Environmental Performance Index, and Global Burden of Disease metrics are unofficial, conducted by no recognized authority. Minister of State for Environment Kirti Vardhan Singh clarified that WHO air quality guidelines serve only as advisory values, not binding standards, helping countries establish their own norms based on geography, environmental conditions, and national circumstances. India has notified National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for 12 pollutants to protect public health and environment. The government conducts its own annual Swachh Vayu Survekshan, ranking 130 cities under the National Clean Air Programme based on air quality improvement measures, with awards presented on National Swachh Vayu Diwas (September 7). (PC: X)

In response to a sharp rise in air pollution, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has banned the use of coal and firewood in tandoors in all hotels, restaurants and eateries across Delhi. Under the directive, commercial kitchens must immediately switch to electric, gas or other clean-fuel appliances. Additionally, a new rule empowers authorities to impose a fine of up to ₹5,000 on anyone caught burning garbage or waste in the open — a major cause of worsening air quality. The measures aim to curb local emissions and improve air quality as the city’s Air Quality Index stays dangerously high. (PC: ANI)

After a 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck north-eastern Japan, authorities warned of the possibility of a future megaquake. Residents in seven prefectures, from Hokkaido to Chiba, were told to stay alert, check evacuation routes, secure furniture, and prepare emergency kits. Officials said a larger quake of magnitude 8 or higher could occur, but the chance is about one in 100. Japan’s Nankai Trough has produced major earthquakes roughly every 100 years, sometimes causing tsunamis. Experts say earthquakes cannot be predicted, and the warning is meant to help people prepare, not indicate an imminent quake.

Storm Bram is bringing dangerous weather to parts of the UK, with strong winds and heavy rain expected through today and tomorrow morning. The Met Office has issued amber alerts for Scotland, South Wales, and southwest England. Northwest Scotland will face the worst winds, possibly reaching 90mph. Experts warn of fallen trees, damage to homes, flooding, and power cuts. Travel may be disrupted on roads, rail lines, bridges, and flights. Rainfall of up to 100mm is possible on already soaked ground. People in the alert areas are advised to secure loose items and check travel updates before leaving home. (PC: Sky News)

Late Monday, a powerful 7.6‑magnitude earthquake struck off the northeastern coast of Japan — near Aomori Prefecture in the Pacific Ocean, at a depth of about 50 km. The quake triggered tsunami warnings for coastal prefectures including Hokkaido, Aomori and Iwate Prefecture. Initial waves hit ports such as Kuji — the highest recorded wave so far is about 0.7 metres; elsewhere waves of 0.5 m were observed. Around 90,000 people were told to evacuate. Several injuries, widespread power outages, and evacuation orders are reported. Though tsunami warnings were later downgraded to advisories, authorities have mobilized emergency teams and begun damage assessment. (PC: AP)

A strong 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck off the northern coast of Japan, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency to issue a major tsunami warning for Hokkaido, Aomori, and Iwate prefectures. Authorities warned that waves could reach up to 3 metres, urging thousands of residents in coastal areas to evacuate immediately. Initial tsunami waves between 20–50 cm were recorded in several northern ports. The quake’s epicenter was around 80 km off Aomori, at a depth of 50 km. Emergency services are assessing damage, while residents remain on high alert for aftershocks and further tsunami activity.