The death toll from two powerful earthquakes that struck northern Venezuela has climbed to 235, with hundreds more injured and many still missing. The quakes caused widespread destruction, collapsing buildings, damaging roads, and disrupting essential services across several regions. Rescue teams are racing to locate survivors trapped beneath rubble as emergency shelters accommodate thousands of displaced residents. The Venezuelan government has intensified relief efforts, deploying military and disaster response personnel. International assistance has begun arriving, including offers of humanitarian support, while authorities continue assessing the full extent of casualties, infrastructure damage, and the country's long-term recovery needs. (PC: X)

The United Nations has urged a “massive collective effort” to support Venezuela after devastating twin earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude struck the country. The disaster has killed at least 164 people, injured more than 970, and left many trapped beneath collapsed buildings. Rescue teams are racing against time as aftershocks and damaged infrastructure hamper operations. Authorities have declared a state of emergency, while international aid, search-and-rescue teams, and humanitarian assistance are being mobilized. The UN warned that Venezuela’s existing humanitarian challenges could worsen significantly, stressing the need for coordinated global support to aid survivors and accelerate recovery efforts. (PC: Reuters)

The United Kingdom recorded its hottest June day on record as temperatures surged to 36.4°C, according to the UK Met Office. The new milestone surpassed the previous June record and came amid an intense heatwave affecting large parts of the country. Meteorologists attributed the extreme temperatures to a combination of persistent high-pressure systems and hot air moving north from continental Europe. Health authorities issued warnings urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and monitor vulnerable populations. The record-breaking heat has raised fresh concerns about the growing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events linked to climate change, with scientists warning that such temperature spikes are becoming increasingly common. (PC: BBC)  

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)