Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.1 earthquake hits Antofagasta, Chile.

5.0 earthquake hits western Iran.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 29w (Kammuri), located approximately 834 nm east of Manila, Philippines, is tracking west-southwestward at 09 knots.

NewsBytes:

California, USA - Unexpected rainfall drenched parts of California, where heavy flooding swept away cars, damaged homes and caused numerous roadways to close as heavy snowfall blanketed parts of the country. Two weather systems are making it difficult for holiday travelers to safely get to their destination, with the first being a downpour of rain affecting western states. The bomb cyclone, a type of rapidly strengthening storm, has caused warning advisories to affect parts of every western state from Arizona to Montana. The heavy storm hit residents on Thanksgiving Day and has resulted in record rainfall in more than half a dozen cities in Southern California. Torrential downpours battered areas like San Diego, where flash floods swept away cars.

Brazil - Heavy rain in Salvador de Bahia City (Bahia State, north-eastern Brazil) has caused floods and landslides. According to media reports, 300 people have been displaced as a result, with widespread damage sustained to roads and more than 100 houses. 170 mm of rain fell in 3 hours during the morning of 26 November, while the monthly average for November is 100mm.

Disease

Ebola - DR Congo

Six new confirmed cases were reported between 20 to 26 November in the ongoing Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in North Kivu and Ituri provinces.

Dengue Fever - Spain

On 6 November 2019, the Spanish authorities reported a likely sexual transmission of dengue between two men who have sex with men (MSM) in the municipality of Madrid in central Spain.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.5 earthquake hits off the east coast of Honshu, Japan.

5.2 earthquake hits Myanmar.

5.1 earthquake hits the Adriatic Sea.

5.0 earthquake hits Guam.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 29w (Kammuri), located approximately 964 nm east of Manila, Philippines, is tracking west-northwestward at 06 knots.

NewsBytes:

Kenya - Heavy rains in Kenya unleashed a deluge that killed five people overnight in the Rift Valley, raising the death toll from weekend flooding to 65. The torrential rain is uncommon for this time of year. Parts of the country could continue to face destructive flooding this week.

California, USA - A winter-like storm led to at least one death on Thanksgiving Day, closed numerous roadways and left officials warning of waterspouts, floods, hail, lightning and rip currents. Two important highways — the 5 Freeway through the Grapevine and the 15 Freeway between the Inland Empire and Las Vegas — were closed, reopened and closed again Thursday as snow would fall, be plowed aside and then accumulate again. Heavy snowfall was reported late Thursday.

Wildlife

Chimp Attacks

Chimpanzees have begun attacking children in western Uganda during recent years in a shocking trend that has resulted in serious injuries and deaths.

A highly publicized and gruesome attack in 2014 saw a chimp savage a 2-year-old child after snatching it from its mother. At least three more fatal attacks on infants have occurred since then, accompanied by a half-dozen other attacks that resulted in injuries or narrow escapes.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority points to the destruction of the chimps’ forest habit outside of protected areas to grow crops. It says this is sending the primates into villages in search of food, leading to the attacks.

Light Pollution

A new scientific review points to light pollution as a major contributor to the “insect apocalypse” decimating many species.

An earlier study this year blamed pesticide use, habitat destruction and climate change for the loss of nearly half of the planet’s insects since 1970.

But writing in the journal Biological Conservation, an international team of experts says artificial light is disrupting insect reproduction and navigation, as well as drawing insects to untimely deaths.

“Artificial light at night is human-caused lighting – ranging from streetlights to gas flares from oil extraction. It can affect insects in pretty much every imaginable part of their lives,” said senior author Brett Seymoure.

Environment

Global Temperature Extremes

The week’s hottest temperature was 116 degrees Fahrenheit (46.1 degrees Celsius) in Fitzroy Crossing, Western Australia.

The week’s coldest temperature was minus 65.0 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 48.3 degrees Celsius) at Verkhoyansk, Siberia.

Temperatures were tabulated from the more than 10,000 worldwide synoptic weather stations. The United Nations World Meteorological Organization sets the standards for weather observations, and provides a global telecommunications circuit for data distribution.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Australia

More than 160 bushfires are now burning across New South Wales after a host of fresh blazes were started in the last 24 hours. The New South Wales Rural Fire Service released a statement on Thursday morning warning of 163 bush and grass fires burning right across the state. 64 of the blazes 'were not contained'.

Wildfires - West Virginia, USA

For the second time in six years, a large group of wildfires has broken out near Smoke Hole in the eastern part of West Virginia. Authorities say the wildfires have burned about 2,000 acres of forestland in Grant and Pendleton counties.

Disease

Plague - China

The Inner Mongolia Health Authority of Mainland China announced a confirmed case of bubonic plague Wednesday. This is the fifth case of plague to be reported by China and the fourth this month.

Lassa Fever - Netherlands

On 20 November 2019, WHO was informed by The Netherlands’ International Health Regulations (IHR) National Focal Point of one imported case of Lassa fever from Sierra Leone. The patient was a male doctor, a Dutch national who worked in a rural Masanga hospital in Tonkolili district, Northern province in Sierra Leone.

Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 – Pakistan

Through national disease surveillance, an outbreak of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type-2 (cVDPV2) has been confirmed in Pakistan in 2019. Between 7 July and 3 November 2019, 11 children have been paralysed from cVDPV2 in Pakistan.

Volcanos

Global Volcanic Activity - Ongoing Activity for the week of 20 November - 26 November 2019

Aira | Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported that incandescence from Minamidake Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) was visible at night during 18-25 November. There were 17 explosions and four non-explosive eruptive events detected by the seismic network. Ash plumes rose as high as 2.7 km above the crater rim and blocks were ejected as far as 1.7 km away. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was 2,800 tons/day on 21 November. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a 5-level scale).

Dukono | Halmahera (Indonesia) : Based on satellite and wind model data, and information from PVMBG, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 20-26 November ash plumes from Dukono rose to an altitude of 1.8-2.3 km (6,000-8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to remain outside of the 2-km exclusion zone.

Ebeko | Paramushir Island (Russia) : Volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island), about 7 km E of Ebeko, observed explosions during 15-17 and 20 November that sent ash plumes up to 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. Ash plumes drifted SE and NE. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Fuego | Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that there were 6-15 explosions per hour recorded at Fuego during 20-26 November, generating ash plumes that rose as high as 1.1 km above the crater rim and drifted 10-20 km S, SW, and W. Ashfall was reported in several areas downwind including Santa Sofía (12 km SW), Morelia (9 km SW), Panimaché I and II (8 km SW), Finca Palo Verde, San Pedro Yepocapa (8 km NW), Sangre de Cristo (8 km WSW), and El Porvenir (8 km ENE). Explosions sometimes produced shock waves that rattled houses in nearby communities. Incandescent material was ejected 100-450 m high and caused avalanches of material that occasionally traveled long distances (reaching vegetated areas) down the Seca (W), Taniluyá (SW), Ceniza (SSW), Trinidad (S), Las Lajas (SE), and Honda ravines. Lava flows advanced in the Seca and Santa Teresa (W) drainages during November, and were 300 and 800 m long on 21 and 24 November, respectively.

Ibu | Halmahera (Indonesia) : Based on PVMBG observations, satellite images, and wind data, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 20-21 and 23-25 November ash plumes from Ibu rose 1.8-2.1 km (6,000-7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions. A thermal anomaly was visible in satellite images on 21 November.

Karangetang | Siau Island (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that during 18-24 November lava continued to effuse from Karangetang’s Main Crater (S), traveling as far as 1.8 km down the Nanitu, Pangi, and Sense drainages on the SW and W flanks. Sometimes dense white plumes rose to 300 m above the summit. Incandescence from both summit craters was visible at night. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Klyuchevskoy | Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Klyuchevskoy was identified in satellite images on 14 November. Strombolian activity and a series of ash explosions were visible on 20 November. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange.

Merapi | Central Java (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that no eruptive events at Merapi were recorded during 18-24 November, though a significant increase in the number of low-frequency earthquakes and increased carbon dioxide emissions were detected on 19 November. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and residents were warned to stay outside of the 3-km exclusion zone.

Pacaya | Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that during 20-26 November Strombolian explosions at Pacaya’s Mackenney Crater ejected material as high as 75 m above the crater rim. Lava flows traveled as far as 400 m down NW flank and produced block avalanches from the flow fronts.

Sangeang Api | Indonesia : The Darwin VAAC reported that during 20-26 November discrete and short-lived ash emissions from Sangeang Api rose to 2.4 km (8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SW and W. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Santa Maria | Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that on most days during 20-26 November there were 1-3 explosions per hour detected at Santa María's Santiaguito lava-dome complex. Ash plumes rose 600-900 m above the complex and drifted SW and W. Avalanches of material descended the E, S, and SW flanks. Ash sometimes fell locally, and likely in finca El Faro, Santa Maria, and Viejo Palmar during 20-21 and 24-25 November.

Sheveluch | Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 15-22 November. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Suwanosejima | Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that incandescence at Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater was visible during 15-22 November. Eruptive events generated grayish white plumes that rose as high as 900 m above the crater rim. Ashfall was reported in Toshima Village (4 km SSW) during 19-20 November. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a 5-level scale).

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.6 earthquake hits the Scotia Sea.

5.5 earthquake hits the Carlsberg ridge.

5.3 earthquake hits the Adriatic SEa.

5.2 earthquake hits the Carlsberg ridge.

5.0 earthquake hits the China-Vietnam border.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm 29w (Kammuri), located approximately 199 nm north of Yap, is tracking north-northwestward at 12 knots.

Volcanos

Global Volcanic Activity - New Activity for the week of 20 November - 26 November 2019

Shishaldin | Fox Islands (USA) : AVO reported that increased seismicity and higher surface temperatures at Shishaldin during 19-20 November indicated elevated eruptive activity. Seismicity abruptly dropped at 0340 on 20 November and remained low, heralding another pause in activity. Tremor and surface temperatures remained low through 23 November. Seismicity again increased during 24-25 November and small explosions were detected in local and regional infrasound stations. Strongly elevated surface temperatures were observed in multiple satellite images. A partial collapse of the summit cone sometime around 1430 on 24 November produced a pyroclastic flow that traveled as far as 3 km down the NW flank. A new lava flow on the NW flank was several hundred meters long. Seismicity decreased but remained elevated during 25-26 November. Strongly elevated surface temperatures were identified in multiple satellite images, and incandescence from the summit was occasionally visible in web camera images overnight. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Watch.

White Island | North Island (New Zealand) : GeoNet reported that gas emissions at White Island were at moderate-to-high levels during 18-25 November and tremor was at moderate levels. Gas-driven fountaining from active vents on the W side of the crater floor ejected mud a few meters in the air. The Volcanic Alert Level remained at 2 and the Aviation colour Code remained at Yellow.

Space Events

New Interstellar Visitor

An interstellar object from deep in space has been spotted hurtling towards our solar system. Known as 21/Borisov experts say that the object is only the second interstellar object spotted in our solar system. The first close up of the object was captured in August by experts at the Keck observatory in Hawaii. Borisov is now set to make its close approach next month passing roughly 190 million miles away from our orbit, about twice the distance from Earth to the Sun.

The object itself has a long tail made up of ice and debris stretching a whopping 100,000 miles behind it. With the tale included this makes the Borisov vastly huge staggeringly longer than 12 earths.

Despite the extensive study and focus given to the interstellar object scientists still remain clueless as to what Borisov actually is. At the moment many scientists best guess is that it is a comet, with the hope being that studying it will open the door to answers on how comets are formed in deep space.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.9 earthquake hits Crete.

5.1 earthquake hits south of Fiji.

5.1 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits Tonga.

Earthquake - Albania

The 6.4 magnitude quake struck in the Adriatic Sea just before 4 a.m., 34 kilometres northwest of Tirana, Albania’s capital, has killed at least 21 people and injured more than 600, according to the government. There are reports of severe damage to infrastructure, and hundreds of buildings have collapsed or partially collapsed in Thumane and Durres, with people still thought to be trapped inside.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm 29w (Kammuri), located approximately 169 nm northeast of Yap, is tracking west-southwestward at 06 knots.

NewsBytes:

DR Congo - Forty-one people died in the DR Congo capital Kinshasa after torrential overnight rains, with some swept away by landslides. Three of the city’s 26 districts were especially hit. A bridge connecting the districts of Lemba and Ngaba collapsed, and another was destroyed in the district of Kisenso. In Lemba, a gigantic hole appeared, about 10 meters (30 feet) deep and 20 meters (70 feet) across, where a road had been swept away. More than 300 homes have been flooded. There are many houses which have been destroyed.

Niger - 70,000 people have been affected by floods that have ruined homes and food reserves in Niger. The disaster has claimed over 40 lives and destroyed nearly 5,500 houses. Hitting during the country’s lean season, it has ruined livelihoods and precious food reserves.

Wildlife

Bison Beneficial to USA Grasslands

Bison aren’t simply grazing as they move across the meadows of Yellowstone National Park. They are engineering the environment, manipulating the forage on the landscape and changing the way spring green-up occurs, researchers recently found, essentially rolling back spring as the migrate through the high country.

Their presence makes for longer, greener plant life in the spring, they found, and more nutritious grasses.

When bison head to the high country in the summer, researchers found, they graze so intensively that the grasses revert to an earlier stage of growth, essentially returning springtime conditions.

They found that areas where bison grazed heavily were more productive than areas where they kept bison out. Even NASA satellites can detect the difference between areas that are lightly grazed and heavily grazed.

Baby Pangolin Rescued

A rescued young Sunda pangolin takes his first tentative steps after being released back into the wild in Thailand. The Critically Endangered animal was being illegally kept in cramped conditions and constant darkness by a poacher, before being saved by local park rangers.

Believed to have been snatched at night by poachers searching for pangolins to sell, experts think he kept alive as the meat and scales of live pangolins reach a higher price on the black market than those of dead animals.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Australia

More thunderstorms have rolled in across NSW bringing with them lightning strikes and the concerns they may have sparked more bushfires. Aircraft on Monday were kept busy searching for new bushfires from lightning strikes during thunderstorms at the weekend as firefighters continuing to battle dozens of blazes across the state.

More than 80 fires were burning at 7pm on Monday, 50 of them uncontained. More than 1300 firefighters remain in the field across NSW.

Wildfires - California

A new wildfire has been blazing near Santa Barbara ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. The Cave Fire quickly burned through 4,367 acres since it started Monday afternoon—and it remains 10% contained as of Tuesday evening, according to Cal Fire. Approximately 600 firefighters have been assigned and evacuation orders have been issued for more than 2,280 residents, while still other areas are under evacuation warning.

Disease

Measles - Samoa

In an update on the measles outbreak in Samoa, the Samoan government reported an additional 249 cases in the last 24 hours. This brings the outbreak total to 2,686 measles cases to date. An additional measles related death was reported, bringing the death tally to 33.

Measles - Global

Many countries around the world are experiencing measles outbreaks. As of 5 November 2019, there have been 440,263 confirmed cases reported to WHO through official monthly reporting by 187 Member States in 2019.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.4 earthquake hits the Adriatic Sea.

5.6 earthquake hits the Bougainville region, Papua New Guinea.

5.4 earthquake hits the Adriatic Sea.

5.3 earthquake hits Myanmar.

5.3 earthquake hits Albania.

5.2 earthquake hits Bosnia and Herzegovina.

5.1 earthquake hits Albania.

5.1 earthquake hits offshore Atacama, Chile.

5.0 earthquake hits the Adriatic Sea.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm 29w (Kammuri), located approximately 215 nm southeast of Andersen AFB, is tracking west-northwestward at 20 knots.

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 01p (Rita), located approximately 229 nm north-northeast of Port Vila, Vanuatu, is tracking south-southwestward at 04 knots.

NewsBytes:

Greece - Two people have been killed and hundreds of homes have been flooded following an overnight storm in Greece. Bodies of two tourists have been recovered near the port of Antirio, 250 kilometers (155 miles) west of Athens. The highway linking the Greek capital to the western port city of Patras has been closed following mudslides caused by heavy rainfall.

Djubouti - Since 21 November, Djibouti has experienced heavy rains which triggered flash floods across the country. In Djibouti city alone, initial estimates indicate that over 30,000-40,000 families (150,000-250,000 people) have been somewhat affected by the floods, and 9 people (7 children) have reportedly been killed. Reports indicate that between 21 and 24 November, almost 300mm of rain were recorded in Djibouti city alone, or over three times the annual average.

Global Warming

Global Coal Power Generation Falls

Electricity generated from coal-fired plants is set to fall by a record 3% this year, raising chances for slowing global carbon dioxide emissions growth, according to a report released by Carbon Brief.

The global usage rate for coal-fired generation this year is about 54% and suggests that electricity from the plants, which are built to run at or near capacity for extended periods, is more expensive, according to the report, which was written by researchers from several climate research groups, including the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air. The decline comes even as new coal-fired generation capacity in places including China and Southeast Asia is rising.

Reindeer Herders at Risk From Vanishing Ice Due to Global Warming

Deep in the Sayan Mountains of northern Mongolia, patches of ice rest year-round in the crooks between hills.

Locals in this high tundra call the perennial snowbanks munkh mus, or eternal ice. They’re central to lives of the region’s traditional reindeer herders, who depend on the snowy patches for clean drinking water and to cool down their hoofed charges in summer months.

Now, a new study led by archaeologist William Taylor suggests that this eternal ice, and the people and animals it supports, may be at risk because of soaring global temperatures. The research team discovered, the once-reliable munkh mus is melting faster than at any time in recent history.

Reindeer are cold-loving animals and can overheat when the weather gets too warm. To compensate, the Tsaatan bring their herds to the ice to give them a break from the heat and the tundra’s abundant insects.

Largest global assessment of ocean warming impacts

Climate change is reorganizing the life in our oceans in a big way: as waters warm, cold-loving species, from plankton to fish, leave the area and warm water species become more successful. So say an international group of scientists in the most comprehensive assessment of the effects of ocean warming on the distribution fish communities.

The results showed how subtle changes in the movement of species that prefer cold water or warm water, in response to rising temperatures, made a big impact on the global picture.

While the global warming trend was widely seen, the North Atlantic showed the largest rise in average temperature during the time period. However, for fish communities in the Labrador Sea, where the temperature at 100 meters deep can be as much as five degrees Celsius cooler than the surface, moving deeper in the water column allowed the cold-water species to remain successful.

Most of the data collected were targeted surveys of commercial fish stocks, so the changes seen reflect those likely to be seen in fish markets as cold-water fish like cod and haddock decline, while warm-water species like red mullet increase with warming.

There has been a temperature rise of almost one degree Celsius in some parts of the ocean since 1985.

Wildlife

Malaysia Says Goodbye to its last Sumatran Rhino

The last Sumatran rhino in Malaysia, a female dubbed "Iman," died on Saturday (Nov. 23) at the Borneo Rhino Sanctuary in Sabah, Malaysia. Her death at age 25 marks the extinction of her species in that country and is a grim reminder of the animals' vulnerability; fewer than 80 wild Sumatran rhinos (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis) remain in the wild, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature

Disease

Plague - DR Congo

In a follow-up on the plague cluster reported in Ituri Province, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), health officials have reported seven additional cases. Through November 3, 38 cases of bubonic plague including eight deaths have been reported.

Lassa Fever - Sierra Leone

This week, the Ministry of Health in Sierra Leone formally notified the World Health Organization (WHO) of the Lassa fever outbreak in the country. To date, the Lassa fever cluster has accounted for eight cases, including three deaths.

Measles - DR Congo

In a follow-up on the measles epidemic in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), health officials have now reported 250,270 total cases through November 3. In addition, the measles death toll has risen to 5,110 in 2019. During the most recent week, officials saw an additional 7,559 measles cases including 172 deaths.

Measles - Tonga

In a follow-up on the measles outbreak in Tonga, health authorities are reporting 310 confirmed or suspected measles cases through November 19.

Dengue Fever - Vietnam

Through October 11, the General Department of Preventive Medicine, Ministry of Health, Vietnam has reported 241,863 cases, including 43 deaths since the beginning of the year.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits the Andreanof Islands in the Aleutian Islands.

5.1 earthquake hits Papua, Indonesia.

5.1 earthquake hits off the west coast of northern Sumatra, Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits the Banda Sea.

5.0 earthquake hits the Bougainville region, Papua New Guinea.

5.0 earthquake hits Papua, Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits Costa Rica.

5.0 earthquake hits Guangxi, China.

5.0 earthquake hits Taiwan.

5.0 earthquake hits western Mongolia.

5.0 earthquake hits Kepulauan Obi, Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits southeast of the Loyalty Islands.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Atlantic Ocean: Post Tropical Cyclone Sebastien is located about 230 mi...370 km nnw of the Azores with maximum sustained winds...60 mph...95 km/h. Present movement...ne or 55 degrees at 40 mph...65 km/h.

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 01p (Rita), located approximately 344 nm north-northeast of Port Vila, Vanuatu, is tracking southeastward at 08 knots.

NewsBytes:

India - Eight hundred houses have been inundated on Sunday afternoon, after the bund of Hulimavu lake in Bengaluru breached. More than 200 people were evacuated.

France - Flooding and mudslides caused by heavy rainfall has claimed the lives of two people and left two missing in southern France. The area absorbed the equivalent of two months of average rainfall in 24 hours. The Nice airport was briefly closed.

Italy - A 30-meter section of highway along a viaduct in the coastal city of Savona has collapsed after heavy rains leaving cars perched perilously on a precipice.. A woman was found dead after the surging Bomida river swept away her car in northern Italy.

Italy - Venice has continued to be swamped by floods this weekend just 11 days after the city's highest water levels in 50 years killed two people and caused chaos. New images show the floods continuing to plague the city as people wade through the streets and try to salvage their businesses as residents braced themselves for another, though smaller, high tide today.

Disease

Measles - Samoa

Authorities say the measles epidemic sweeping through Samoa continues to worsen with the death toll rising to 25, all but one of them young children.

The government of the South Pacific nation said Monday that more than 140 new cases of people contracting the virus have been recorded within the past day, bringing the total to about 2200 cases since the outbreak began last month.

Ebola - Malawi

An eight-year-old boy from the Democratic Republic of Congo who has shown signs of Ebola has been put under quarantine in Karonga. Malawi. The boy together with his parents travelled to Malawi from DRC through Burundi and Tanzania. In DRC, the family lived in South Kivu.

Karonga environmental officer Lewis Tukula said the family members attempted to evade Kaporo Immigration post but were intercepted at Iponga in the district. “He has all the signs of Ebola disease, he is vomiting, he has vomited six times, he has body weakness and high fever,” said Tukula. Medical samples of the child have been sent to Lilongwe for tests where it will be established if the child has the disease or not.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.1 earthquake hits Papua, Indonesia.

6.1 earthquake hits the Andreanof Islands in the Aleutian Islands.

5.8 earthquake hits off the east coast of North Island, New Zealand.

5.7 earthquake hits the Kuril Islands.

5.3 earthquake hits Kepulauan Barat Daya, Indonesia.

5.2 earthquake hits Tonga.

5.2 earthquake hits the west Chile rise.

5.1 earthquake hits Papua, Indonesia.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Atlantic Ocean: Tropical Storm Sebastien is located about 730 mi...1175 km w of the Azores with maximum sustained winds...65 mph...100 km/h. Present movement...ne or 50 degrees at 33 mph...54 km/h.

In the Southern Hemisphere: Tropical cyclone 01p (One), located approximately 452 nm north of Port Vila, Vanuatu, is tracking eastward at 08 knots.

NewsBytes:

Mozambique - Severe weather in Gondola district of the Manica province in Mozambique has claimed the lives of at least three people. Two people died when a lightning struck the house in Nhachoco and Maguiguane regions of Mozambique. One woman died after swept away by the flooded Mussatua River.

Kenya - Landslides caused by severe weather have claimed the lives of at least 24 people in in West Pokot county, Kenya. Seven children died in the landslide disaster and severely affected Nyarkulian and Parua villages of Kenya. According to the Kenya Red Cross, in Mikinduri, Meru County, a number of houses have been reportedly swept away after river Thanantu broke it's banks.

UK - Flash floods caused sudden road closures, car crashes and left entire villages cut off in the south west of England. Exton has also been ravaged by flooding and villagers in Kennford in the early hours were forced to pump out water outside their homes in a battle to protect their community. The River Teign is subject to a flood warning issued by the Environment Agency over fears it may rise above its banks and flood homes.

Wildlife

Koalas ‘Functionally Extinct’ After Australia Bushfires

As Australia experiences record-breaking drought and bushfires, koala populations have dwindled along with their habitat, leaving them “functionally extinct.”

The chairman of the Australian Koala Foundation, Deborah Tabart, estimates that over 1,000 koalas have been killed from the fires and that 80 percent of their habitat has been destroyed.

Recent bushfires, along with prolonged drought and deforestation has led to koalas becoming “functionally extinct” according to experts.

Functional extinction is when a population becomes so limited that they no longer play a significant role in their ecosystem and the population becomes no longer viable. While some individuals could produce, the limited number of koalas makes the long-term viability of the species unlikely and highly susceptible to disease.

Disease

Cryptosporidium - France

The Agence régionale de santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (ARS Paca) is reporting a Cryptosporidium outbreak in Grasse and several surrounding municipalities of the Alpes-Maritimes. Since October 7, at least 92 cases of diarrhea caused by a parasite have been reported. There is a suspicion of contamination in the Grasse sector water supply.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.4 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

5.3 earthquake hits the Kuril Islands.

5.3 earthquake hits Vanuatu.

5.2 earthquake hits Mendoza, Argentina.

5.0 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Atlantic Ocean: Tropical Storm Sebastien is located about 1535 mi...2465 km wsw of the Azores with maximum sustained winds...65 mph...100 km/h. Present movement...ene or 60 degrees at 17 mph...28 km/h.

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical Depression 28w (Fung-Wong), located approximately 142 nm west-southwest of Kadena AFB, Okinawa, Japan, is tracking northeastward at 1 knot.

Disease

Plague - China

The Taiwan Department of Disease Control reported on a fourth human plague case. The patient from Jiuquan City, Gansu Province was diagnosed with septicemic plague. This follows two cases of pneumonic plague and one case of bubonic plague.

Yellow Fever - Venezuela

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported this week on a autochthonous case of yellow fever in Venezuela, the first in 14 years.

Dengue Fever - Republic of Sudan

From 8 August through 4 November 2019, a total of 1,197 suspected cases of dengue fever including five deaths have been reported from seven states.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.2 earthquake hits Kepulauan Tanimbar, Indonesia.

5.2 earthquake hits Kepulauan Batu, Indonesia.

5.2 earthquake hits Kyushu, Japan.

5.1 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Atlantic Ocean: Tropical Storm Sebastien is located about 600 mi...965 km ne of the northern Leeward islands with maximum sustained winds...60 mph...95 km/h. Present movement...ene or 65 degrees at 15 mph...24 km/h.

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm 28w (Fung-Wong), located approximately 208 nm southwest of Kadena AFB, Okinawa, Japan, is tracking north-northeastward at 12 knots.

NewsBytes:

Zimbabwe - Lightning in Goromonzi, Mashonaland East region of Zimbabwe has claimed lives of three school children. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe's Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has issued a flood warning for the country's southern provinces.

Wildlife

Insect Apocalypse Warning

A new report suggests that half of all insects on the planet have been lost since 1970 from a combination of habitat destruction, climate change and the increased use of pesticides.

Published in the journal Biological Conservation, the report warns that 40% of the 1 million insect species known to science are facing extinction.

But conservationists say many of those insects can be rescued by slashing pesticide use and making areas around our global communities more wildlife friendly.

“If we don’t stop the decline of our insects, there will be profound consequences for all life on Earth [and] for human well-being,” said Dave Goulson of Britain’s University of Sussex.

Amazon Losses - Update

Deforestation of Brazil’s Amazon region soared to its highest level in a decade as agribusiness, miners, loggers and developers felled portions of the world’s largest rainforest.

Brazil’s National Institute for Space Research announced that 3,769 square miles of forest were lost during the 12-month period ending in July, or about a 30% spike from the previous 12 months.

Environmental advocates blame the increase on Brazil’s president, who has slashed the budgets and staff of the agencies in charge of preventing such illegal activities in the Amazon.

Global Warming

Nitrous Greenhouse Threat

A new study finds that emissions of the ozone-eating greenhouse gas nitrous oxide have increased more than expected.

Researchers from the Norwegian Institute for Air Research and other institutions found that the increased use of fertilizers containing nitrogen has been the main driver in the increase.

“We see that the N2O emissions have increased considerably during the past two decades, but especially from 2009 onwards,” said author Rona Thompson.

While fertilizer use has made it possible to grow a lot more food, the researchers say it resulted in destruction of stratospheric ozone and further climate change.

Current Fossil Fuel Plans Will Shatter Paris Climate Limits

The world's top fossil fuel-producing nations are on track to extract enough oil, gas and coal to send global temperatures soaring past the goals of the Paris climate agreement, according to a United Nations report published Wednesday.

If countries follow through on their current plans, they will produce about 50 percent more fossil fuels by 2030 than would be compatible with the international goal of keeping global warming under 2 degrees Celsius, the report said.

They would blow past the more ambitious target of keeping warming under 1.5°C, the report found, with countries poised to produce twice as much oil, gas and coal by 2030 than would be allowable to meet that goal.

Environment

Global Temperature Extremes

The week’s hottest temperature was 115 degrees Fahrenheit (46.1 degrees Celsius) in Mandora, Western Australia.

The week’s coldest temperature was minus 55.0 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 48.3 degrees Celsius) at Vostok, Antarctica.

Temperatures were tabulated from the more than 10,000 worldwide synoptic weather stations. The United Nations World Meteorological Organization sets the standards for weather observations, and provides a global telecommunications circuit for data distribution.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Australia

Hazardous smoke blanketed Sydney on Thursday as wildfires burned across eastern and southern Australia. Thick smog shrouded Australia’s most populous city, leaving its iconic skyline barely visible two days after smoke created serious air quality issues. The New South Wales Rural Fire Service said the smoke from around 50 wildfires burning mainly in northern parts of the state. Air pollution levels were reading nearly 10 times higher than the national standard.

Wildfires have destroyed more than 600 homes in Australia’s most populous state. The annual Australian fire season normally peaks during the Southern Hemisphere summer, but has started early after an unusually warm and dry winter.

Disease

Ebola - DR Congo

Seven new confirmed cases were reported in the past week (13 to 19 November) in the ongoing Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in North Kivu and Ituri provinces.

Volcanos

Global Volcanic Activity - Ongoing Activity for the week of 13 November - 19 November 2019

Aira | Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported that incandescence from Minamidake Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) was visible at night during 11-18 November. There were 27 explosions and 29 non-explosive eruptive events detected by the seismic network. Ash plumes rose as high as 2.5 km above the crater rim and blocks were ejected 600-900 m away. An explosion at 0200 on 13 November generated an ash plume that rose 3.6 km and ejected large blocks that fell 1.7 km away. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a 5-level scale).

Asosan | Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported that the eruption at Asosan that began on 7 October continued through 18 November. The Tokyo VAAC reported that during 13-18 November ash plumes rose to 1.5-2.4 km (5,000-8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions. On 18 November JMA confirmed ashfall in downwind areas.

Dukono | Halmahera (Indonesia) : Based on satellite and wind model data, and information from PVMBG, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 6-12 November ash plumes from Dukono rose to an altitude of 2.1-2.3 km (7,000-8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to remain outside of the 2-km exclusion zone.

Ebeko | Paramushir Island (Russia) : Volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island), about 7 km E of Ebeko, observed explosions during 11-12 and 14 November that sent ash plumes up to 3 km (10,00 ft) a.s.l. Ash plumes drifted E and NE. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Karangetang | Siau Island (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that during 11-17 November lava continued to effuse from Karangetang’s Main Crater (S), traveling as far as 1.8 km down the Nanitu, Pangi, and Sense drainages on the SW and W flanks. Sometimes dense white plumes rose to 400 m above the summit. Incandescence from both summit craters was visible at night. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Klyuchevskoy | Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Klyuchevskoy was identified in satellite images during 8 and 10-13 November. Strong crater incandescence was visible at night during 10-11 November. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange.

Krakatau | Indonesia : PVMBG reported that sometimes during 11-17 November dense white plumes rose as high as 150 m above Anak Krakatau’s active vent. The seismic network detected one eruptive event; dense gray-to-black plumes rose as high as 300 m above the vent. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to remain outside of the 2-km-radius hazard zone from the crater.

Merapi | Central Java (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that after the eruption at Merapi on 9 November seismicity increased and remained elevated. At 1046 on 17 November an eruption was recorded by the seismic network for two minutes and 35 seconds. An ash plume rose around 1 km above the crater rim and a pyroclastic flow traveled less than 1 km SE down the Gendol drainage. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and residents were warned to stay outside of the 3-km exclusion zone.

Nevados de Chillan | Chile : ONEMI and SERNAGEOMIN reported that during 12-19 November white-to-gray plumes from Nevados de Chillán’s Nicanor Crater rose 450-900 m above the rim and drifted SE and NE. Occasional explosions ejecting incandescent material onto the flank were visible at night. The volcano Alert Level remained at Orange, the second highest level on a four-colour scale. ONEMI maintained an Alert Level Yellow (the middle level on a three-colour scale) for the communities of Pinto, Coihueco, and San Fabián, and stated that the public should stay at least 3 km away from the crater on the SW flank and 5 km away on the ENE flank.

Sabancaya | Peru : Instituto Geofísico del Perú (IGP) reported that an average of 50 explosions of low-to-medium intensity per day occurred at Sabancaya during 11-17 November. Gas-and-ash plumes rose as high as 2.5 km above the summit and drifted SE and S. There were seven thermal anomalies identified in satellite data. The Alert Level remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale) and the public were warned to stay outside of a 12-km radius.

Sangeang Api | Indonesia : The Darwin VAAC reported that during 14-19 November discrete and short-lived ash emissions from Sangeang Api rose to 2.4 km (8,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NW and W. Thermal anomalies were recorded at least during 18-19 November. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Sheveluch | Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 8-15 November. An ash plume rose to 9-10 km (29,500-32,800 ft) a.s.l. on 11 November; ash plumes drifted as far as 1,300 km ESE during 11-12 November. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Suwanosejima | Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that incandescence at Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater was visible during 8-15 November. Occasional eruptive events during 13-15 November generated grayish white plumes that rose as high as 1.5 km above the crater rim. Ashfall was reported in Toshima Village (4 km SSW) on 14 November. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a 5-level scale).

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.1 earthquake hits Laos.

5.4 earthquake hits Laos.

5.4 earthquake hits off the coast of Chiapas, Mexico.

5.0 earthquake hits the Kuril Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits the central mid-Atlantic ridge.

5.0 earthquake hits the Pagan region in the North Mariana Islands.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Atlantic Ocean: Tropical Storm Sebastien is located about 355 mi...570 km nne of the northern Leeward islands with maximum sustained winds...60 mph...95 km/h. Present movement...nne or 15 degrees at 8 mph...13 km/h.

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm 28w (Fung-Wong), located approximately 408 nm south-southwest of Kadena AFB, Okinawa, Japan, is tracking north-northwestward at 06 knots.

Tropical depression 27w (Kalmaegi), located approximately 109 nm west-southwest of Manila, Philippines, is tracking southwestward at 13 knots.

Volcanos

Global Volcanic Activity - New Activity for the week of 13 November - 19 November 2019

Cleveland | Chuginadak Island (USA) : AVO lowered the Volcano Alert Level for Cleveland to Advisory and the Aviation colour Code to Yellow on 15 November, noting that new satellite data and reanalysis of previous data over the past week showed that lava effusion likely had not begun on 8 November. Regional seismic and infrasound data showed no evidence of eruptive activity during 8-19 November; weakly-to-moderately elevated surface temperatures were sometimes identified in satellite images and steam plumes were sometimes visible in webcam images.

Kirishimayama | Kyushu (Japan) : The number of volcanic earthquakes with hypocenters just below Shinmoedake (Shinmoe peak), a stratovolcano of the Kirishimayama volcano group, increased around 1900 on 17 November and continued to increase through the next day. JMA raised the Alert Level to 2 (on a scale of 1-5) on 18 November. Bad weather conditions prevented visual webcam observations.

Lateiki | Tonga Islands : Satellite images showed that the mid-October eruption at Lateiki (Metis Shoal) had formed a new and larger island, but by 14 November it had eroded to a size similar to the pre-eruptive size.

Shishaldin | Fox Islands (USA) : AVO reported that the eruption at Shishaldin continued at variable levels during 13-19 November. Seismicity increased during 13-14 November, and elevated surface temperatures were visible in satellite and webcam data. Minor ash emissions were visible and likely resulting from spatter cone collapses. Lava and debris flows had not advanced since 8 November; lava flows had traveled as far as 1.2 km and a large branched network of debris flows extended at least 5.5 km NE. Strongly elevated surface temperatures and a steam plume drifting more than 100 km SE were visible on 15 November. An incandescent lava flow on the NE flank was recorded in webcam images. Activity during 17-18 November was characterized by low seismic tremor and weakly-to-moderately elevated surface temperatures, consistent with cooling lava flows. Seismicity and surface temperatures again increased during 18-19 November. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Watch.

White Island | North Island (New Zealand) : GeoNet reported that minor increases in sulfur dioxide emission had been detected at White Island over the past several weeks, and the level of volcanic tremor increased from weak to moderate levels during the previous few weeks. The report noted that the changes are not uncommon and could be related to a variety of processes, though the elevated activity was above the expected range for minor volcanic unrest and associated hazards; GeoNet raised the Volcanic Alert Level for White Island to 2 and the Aviation colour Code to Yellow on 15 November.

Disease

Dengue Fever - Brazil

The State Secretariat of Health of Minas Gerais has reported 484,779 confirmed and suspected dengue cases this year, including 153 deaths. Health officials in Paraná state have reported a 20 percent increase in dengue fever since last week. Officials report 1,234 people have been confirmed with the disease – since August, up from 1,029 cases reported the week prior. During the same period last year, 59 dengue cases were confirmed.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.2 earthquake hits offshore Chiapas, Mexico.

6.1 earthquake hits the Sea of Okhotsk.

5.5 earthquake hits San Luis, Argentina.

5.3 earthquake hits Nepal.

5.0 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Atlantic Ocean: Tropical Storm Sebastien is located about 235 mi...380 km ne of the northern Leeward islands with maximum sustained winds...50 mph...85 km/h. Present movement...nw or 305 degrees at 8 mph...13 km/h.

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical Storm 27w (Kalmaegi), located approximately 103 nm north of Manila, Philippines, is tracking southwestward at 13 knots.

Tropical storm 28w (Fung-Wong), located approximately 408 nm east-northeast of Manila, Philippines, is tracking northwestward at 17 knots.

Disease

Polio - Philippines

Philippines health officials reported today on three additional polio cases in the southern island of Mindanao.

Dengue Fever - Pakistan

From 8 July to 12 November 2019, a total of 47,120 confirmed cases of dengue fever, including 75 deaths, were reported from the four provinces (KP, Punjab, Balochistan, and Sindh), Islamabad, and AJK.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.9 earthquake hits Mindanao in the Philippines.

5.1 earthquake hits the Izu Islands off Japan.

5.1 earthquake hits near the north coast of Papua, Indonesia.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 27w (Kalmaegi), located approximately 302 nm north-northeast of Manila, Philippines, is tracking north-northeastward at 04 knots.

Disease

Chikungunya - Ethiopia

In a follow-up on the chikungunya outbreak in Ethiopia, nearly 2,000 additional suspected cases have been reported in recent weeks, bringing the outbreak total from Dire Dawa City, Administrative City and Araf regions to 53,238 cases since the end of July.

Polio - Angola

The number of polio cases in Angola has reached 44. The distribution of cases in the provinces of Bié, Malanje and Lunda Sul (one case each), Moxico and Benguela (two), Huíla (three), Lunda Norte (four), Luanda (six), Huambo (11 ) and Cuanza Sul (13).

Yellow Fever - Nigeria

The World Health Organization says the outbreak of yellow fever which started in Nigeria in September 2017 is ongoing. This year, an upsurge of yellow fever cases has been reported since August in six states and then began a decrease in late September. Since the beginning of the year, a total of 3,620 suspected yellow fever cases have been reported in 588 LGAs from 36 states with 150 deaths.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.5 earthquake hits Guam.

5.1 earthquake hits the Andaman Islands off India.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean:Tropical Depression Twenty One-E is located about 470 mi...760 km s of Manzanillo Mexico with maximum sustained winds...30 mph...45 km/h. Present movement...nw or 305 degrees at 7 mph...11 km/h.

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 27w (Kalmaegi), located approximately 245 nm north-northeast of Manila, Philippines, is tracking northhwestward at 05 knots.

Tropical Depression Fengshen, located approximately 585 nm northwest of Wake island, is tracking southeastward at 17 knots.

Wildlife

Great Barrier Reef annual mass coral spawning begins

A mass coral spawning has begun on Australia's Great Barrier Reef, with early indications the annual event could be among the biggest in recent years.

Buffeted by climate change-induced rising sea temperatures and coral bleaching, the world's largest reef system goes into a frenzy once a year with a mass release of coral eggs and sperm that is synchronised to increase the chances of fertilisation.

The natural wonder, which has been likened to underwater fireworks or a snowstorm, occurs just once a year in specific conditions: after a full moon when water temperatures hover around 27℃ to 28℃. Soft corals are the first to release, followed by hard corals, in a process that typically spans between 48 and 72 hours.

Coral along large swathes of the 2300km reef have been killed by rising sea temperatures linked to climate change, leaving behind skeletal remains in a process known as coral bleaching.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Australia

Residents west of Brisbane are in for a sleepless night after being told to evacuate due to two large out of control bushfires bearing down on rural communities in the Scenic Rim and Darling Downs. An emergency warning has been issued for a blaze at Ravensbourne and Esk, near Toowoomba, which is part of the Pechey fire responsible for blackening 4200 hectares in the past five days.

Disease

Plague - China

In a follow-up on the pneumonic plague cases reported in China earlier, officials in Inner Mongolia, China report a third plague case, this time it’s bubonic.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.9 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

5.8 earthquake hits Fiji.

5.5 earthquake hits Papua, Indonesia.

5.4 earthquake hits the Bouvet Islands.

5.2 earthquake hits the Nicobar Islands off India.

5.2 earthquake hits the mid-Indian ridge.

5.0 earthquake hits Morocco.

5.0 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Tropical Depression Raymond is located about 390 mi...625 km ssw of the southern tip of Baja California with maximum sustained winds...35 mph...55 km/h. Present movement...n or 10 degrees at 9 mph...15 km/h.

Tropical Depression Twenty One-E is located about 535 mi...860 km s of Zihuatanejo Mexico with maximum sustained winds...30 mph...45 km/h. Present movement...wnw or 290 degrees at 8 mph...13 km/h.

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical Storm 26w (Fengshen), located approximately 166 nm north-northeast of Minami Tori Shima, Japan, is tracking eastward at 28 knots.

Tropical Storm 27w (Kalmaegi), located approximately 258 nm east-northeast of Manila, Philippines, is tracking north-northhwestward at 09 knots.

Global Warming

Venice Floods and Local Government

Venice regional council's offices on the city's Grand Canal were flooded for the first time in history just minutes after officials rejected a plan to combat climate change.

Greenland airport becomes victim of climate change

Greenland's main airport is set to end civilian flights within five years due to climate change, as the melting of permafrost is cracking the runway. Kangerlussuaq Airport, the country's main hub, had 11,000 planes landing or departing last year. Permafrost, the layer of soil usually frozen solid, is shrinking as temperatures rise.

Environment

Oxygen bar sells fresh air in pollution-hit New Delhi

With India's capital engulfed in choking pollution, someone has sniffed an opportunity.

A bar offering fresh puffs of oxygen is proving popular among middle-aged and elderly residents of New Delhi. It was introduced in June but has proven a hit in recent weeks. The bar offers a 15-minute session to inhale a cocktail of oxygen in different flavours, for 500 rupees (€6.32).

Wildlife

Rhino, calf and zebra electrocuted by collapsed power pylon

A female rhino, her calf and two zebra were electrocuted when an Eskom electricity pylon collapsed at Tshwane’s Rietvlei Nature Reserve near Pretoria, South Africa. Scrap metal thieves have been targeting electricity pylons across Gauteng Province, removing structural members to sell as scrap metal to illicit dealers. It seems that this may have been the cause for the failure of one leg of the pylon.

Poachers killed in motor vehicle accident - South Africa

Eight people died in a head-on collision between a bakkie and car on the R531 road between Hoedspruit and Swadini, Limpopo Province, on Saturday. One of two injured people transported to hospital for treatment after the crash died later. The police endangered species unit was called to the scene after buckets containing snake skins, starfish, crabs and other dead sea creatures were found scattered about the crash site.

Disease

Measles - Tonga

In an update on the measles outbreak in Tonga, the Ministry of Health now reports 251 cases of confirmed or suspected measles. The vast majority of cases (86 percent) are reported on the island of Tongatapu and the remainder in Vava’u.

Officials say the outbreak of measles in Tonga occurred following the return of a squad of Tongan rugby players from New Zealand where one player had developed the illness. A further 12 players developed measles on their return to Tonga.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits off the east coast of Honshu, Japan.

Two 5.1 earthquakes hit the Molucca Sea.

5.0 earthquake hits offshore O’Higgins, Chile.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Tropical Storm Raymond is located about 500 mi...805 km s of the southern tip of Baja California with maximum sustained winds...50 mph...85 km/h. Present movement...nnw or 335 degrees at 9 mph...15 km/h.

Tropical Depression Twenty One-E is located about 535 mi...860 km s of Acapulco Mexico with maximum sustained winds...35 mph...55 km/h. Present movement...w or 270 degrees at 12 mph...19 km/h

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 26w (Fengshen), located approximately 185 nm east of Iwo To, Japan, is tracking northwestward at 17 knots.

Tropical depression 27w (Kalmaegi), located approximately 296 nm east-northeast of Manila, Philippines, is tracking southwestward at 01 knot.

NewsBytes:

India, Bangladesh - Update - Cyclone Bulbul has left a trail of death and destruction, claiming the lives of at least 32 people in India and Bangladesh. Cyclone Bulbul killed 10 people and affected at least 2.73 lakh families in different parts of the West Bengal, India causing the suspension of operation for 12 hours at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata. According to the Sate Disaster Management, at least 2,473 houses were destroyed and another 26,000 were partially damaged in the cyclone in the coastal districts along the Bay of Bengal. At least 22 people died in seven coastal districts of Bangladesh. Cyclone Bulbul made landfall between Sagar Islands of West Bengal and Khepupara in Bangladesh. More than 1.8 million people in the vulnerable Bangladeshi coastal districts were evacuated to 4,071 cyclone shelters.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Australia

Residents are ordered to evacuate town north of Sydney immediately as massive bushfire closes in - blanketing the city in a thick layer of smoke. An emergency warning has been issued for residents of Colo Heights, about 90 minutes north west of Sydney, to leave their homes immediately as an out-of-control bushfire approaches. An 85,000-hectare bushfire at Gospers Mountain in the Wollemi National Park has escalated under hot and windy conditions. The bushfire is spreading rapidly and spot fires are springing up ahead of the main blaze.

Smoke from Australia's bushfires has spread to South America

Smoke particles from bushfires in Australia have reached South America, in a striking illustration of the intensity of the unprecedented blazes. Satellites show atmospheric pollution created by the fires across New South Wales and Queensland has travelled more than 10,000 kilometres to Chile and Argentina. Researchers at the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) in Reading, UK, found a plume of carbon monoxide and aerosols trailing across the Pacific Ocean to South America.

Disease

Polio - Pakistan

Pakistan reported an additional two wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) cases during the past week, according to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. This brings the total WPV1 cases in Pakistan to 82 this year and 102 total in endemic countries.

Environment

Global Temperature Extremes

The week’s hottest temperature was 114 degrees Fahrenheit (45.5 degrees Celsius) in Mandora, Western Australia.

The week’s coldest temperature was minus 63.0 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 52.8 degrees Celsius) at Vostok, Antarctica.

Temperatures were tabulated from the more than 10,000 worldwide synoptic weather stations. The United Nations World Meteorological Organization sets the standards for weather observations, and provides a global telecommunications circuit for data distribution.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

7.1 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

6.1 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

5.9 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

5.8 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

5.5 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

Two 5.4 earthquakes hit the Molucca Sea.

Three 5.3 earthquakes hit the Molucca Sea.

5.2 earthquake hits Bali, Indonesia.

Three 5.1 earthquakes hit the Molucca Sea.

Eight 5.0 earthquakes hit the Molucca Sea.

5.0 earthquake hits the Nicobar Islands off India.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Tropical Depression Twenty-E is located about 655 mi...1055 km s of the southern tip of Baja California with maximum sustained winds...35 mph...55 km/h. Present movement...nnw or 335 degrees at 6 mph...9 km/h.

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 26w (Fengshen), located approximately 404 nm north-northwest of Andersen AFB, is tracking northwestward at 14 knots.

Tropical depression 27w (Kalmaegi), located approximately 323 nm east-northeast of Manila, Philippines, is tracking northwestward at 08 knots.

NewsBytes:

Italy - Waters rose in Venice again Thursday, although to a much lower height than previous days. Venice officials said water reached a maximum height of 3 feet, 8 inches early Thursday and heavy rainfall will continue to bring further floods into the city. Two flood-related fatalities have been reported.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Australia

More than 250 homes have been destroyed by bushfires in the last week in northern New South Wales, the Rural Fire Service (RFS) has confirmed, and the figure is set to rise. 259 homes were razed, 87 homes were damaged and almost 500 outbuildings were destroyed. Firefighters managed to save more than 2,000 buildings in direct fire areas.

Disease

Rift Valley Fever - Sudan

From 19 September 2019 until 11 November 2019, a total of 293 suspected human RVF cases, including 11 associated deaths have been reported from six states; including the Red Sea (120), River Nile (168), Kassala (2), White Nile (1), Khartoum (1), and Al Qadarif (1) States.

Climatic Ailments

A study published in the world’s leading medical journal says that children born today will face untold and lifelong health problems due to the effects of climate change and its root causes.

The Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change study was a partnership of 120 experts from 35 institutions, including the World Health Organization, the World Bank, University College London and China’s Tsinghua University.

It warns that the most pressing health issue is the long-lasting effects of air pollution, which is worsening around the world.

The study goes on to caution that climate change is creating a world with more extreme weather events, the risk of food shortages and increasing cases of infectious diseases.

Ebola - DR Congo

Six new confirmed cases were reported in the past week (6 to 12 November) in the ongoing Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in North Kivu and Ituri provinces, continuing the downward trend of new infections.

Volcanos

Global Volcanic Activity - Ongoing Activity for the week of 6 November - 12 November 2019

Aira | Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported that incandescence from Minamidake Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) was visible at night during 5-11 November. There were 13 explosions and 25 non-explosive eruptive events detected by the seismic network. Blocks were ejected as far as 1.3 km away. Explosions at 1557 and 1615 on 7 November generated ash plumes that rose 3.8 and 3.5 km above the crater rim, respectively. An explosion at 1724 on 8 November generated an ash plume that rose 5.5 km above the crater rim and drifted E, and ejected large blocks that fell 500-800 m away. The last time plumes rose over 5 km from the active vents was on 26 July 2016 at Showa Crater and on 7 October 2000 at Minamidake Crater. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a 5-level scale).

Asamayama | Honshu (Japan) : On 6 November JMA lowered the Alert Level for Asamayama to 1 (on a scale of 1-5) noting that no eruptions had occurred since 26 August, volcanic tremor had not been recorded since early September, and volcanic gas emissions had been generally low.

Dukono | Halmahera (Indonesia) : Based on satellite and wind model data, and information from PVMBG, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 6-12 November ash plumes from Dukono rose to an altitude of 1.8-2.1 km (6,000-7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to remain outside of the 2-km exclusion zone.

Ebeko | Paramushir Island (Russia) : Volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island), about 7 km E of Ebeko, observed explosions during 2-6 November that sent ash plumes up to 3 km (10,00 ft) a.s.l. Ash plumes drifted N, E, and SE. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Karangetang | Siau Island (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that during 4-10 November lava continued to effuse from Karangetang’s Main Crater (S) and travel down the Nanitu, Pangi, and Sense drainages on the SW and W flanks. Incandescent blocks from the flows reached a distance of 1.8 km from the crater. Sometimes dense white plumes rose to 250 m above the summit craters. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Krakatau | Indonesia : PVMBG reported that during 4-10 November diffuse white plumes rose as high as 200 m above Anak Krakatau’s active vent. The seismic network detected 30 eruptive events; dense gray-to-black plumes rose as high as 300 m above the vent. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to remain outside of the 2-km-radius hazard zone from the crater.

Merapi | Central Java (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that at 0621 on 9 November an eruption was detected by the seismic network at Merapi and lasted two minutes and 40 seconds. A pyroclastic flow traveled 2 km down the Gendol drainage on the SE flank and an ash plume rose around 1.5 km above the summit. Minor ashfall was reported in areas to the W as far as 15 km away, including Wonolelo, Sawangan, Magelang, and Tlogolele. The event did not notably impact the morphology of the lava dome and the drainage. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and residents were warned to stay outside of the 3-km exclusion zone.

Sangeang Api | Indonesia : The Darwin VAAC reported that during 6-12 November discrete and short-lived ash emissions from Sangeang Api rose to 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NW, W, and SW. Thermal anomalies were visible during 6-8 November. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Sheveluch | Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 1-8 November. Ash plumes drifted as far as 640 km NW on 3 and 5 November. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Suwanosejima | Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that incandescence at Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater was visible during 1-8 November. Very small eruptive events on 5 and 7 November generated grayish white plumes that rose 900 m above the crater rim. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a 5-level scale).

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.5 earthquake hits the central mid-Atlantic ridge.

5.5 earthquake hits Broken ridge.

5.4 earthquake hits offshore Guatemala.

5.2 earthquake hits the Hindu Kush, Afghanistan.

5.1 earthquake hits the Carlsberg ridge.

5.0 earthquake hits southern Sumatra, Indonesia.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical Storm 26w (Fengshen), located approximately 141 nm east-southeast of Alamagan, is tracking westward at 15 knots.

Tropical depression 27w (Kalmaegi), located approximately 320 nm east of Manila, Philippines, is tracking northwestward at 09 knots.

NewsBytes:

Cameroon - Flooding caused by heavy rainfall has claimed the life of a person in Loum city in Cameroon. Flooding has also affected Permence, Mpondi, PMI and Carrefour Macabo.

Environment

Locust Infestation - Ethiopia

A Desert Locust infestation has been ravaging crop and pasture-land, as well as trees and other vegetation since June 2019 in parts of Afar, Amhara, Somali and Tigray regions. The swarms have produced hopper bands that have covered more than 174 square kilometers and are consuming approximately 8,700 metric tons of green vegetation every day.

Rift Valley Fever - Sudan

On 10 October 2019, the National IHR Focal Point for Sudan notified WHO of 47 suspected cases of Rift Valley Fever (RVF), including two deaths in Arb’aat Area, Towashan Village, in El Qaneb locality, Red Sea State.

Wildfires

Wildfires - Australia

Official weather forecasts for Australia out on Thursday showed no substantial rains for at least three months, providing grim news as firefighters battle to get more than 100 bushfires raging across the east coast under control.

Wildfires in New South Wales and Queensland states have killed four people, destroyed hundreds of homes and wiped out 2.5 million acres (1 million hectares) of farmland and bush over the past week. Firefighters have said the blazes will burn for weeks without significant rainfall.

Volcanos

Global Volcanic Activity - New Activity for the week of 6 November - 12 November 2019

Cleveland | Chuginadak Island (USA) : Highly elevated surface temperatures identified in satellite data indicated that slow lava effusion in Cleveland’s summit crater may have begun during 7-8 November. AVO raised the Volcano Alert Level to Watch and the Aviation colour Code to Orange. Robust steaming was visible in satellite and webcam images on 7 November.

Klyuchevskoy | Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a weak thermal anomaly over Klyuchevskoy was identified in satellite images on 6 November. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange.

Manam | Papua New Guinea : RVO reported that at 1330 on 2 November a single large explosion at Manam generated a dense dark ash plume that rose 1 km above the summit and drifted NW. A shock wave was felt at the Bogia Government station (about 40 km SE) about 1 minute later. RSAM values on 6 November fluctuated between 250 and 360 units but began to increase around 1430 and triggered alerts around 1445. Values continued to increase and reached 400-500 units, heralding an eruption which began during 1600-1630. A gray ash plume rose 1 km and drifted NW. Incandescent material ejecting from the vent was visible at the start of the eruption and became more visible as the evening grew darker. The eruption peaked in intensity around 1930, then declined and ceased during 2100-2200.

Popocatepetl | Mexico : During an overflight of Popocatépetl on 5 November CENAPRED scientists, researchers from Instituto de Geofísica de UNAM, and members of the Coordinación Nacional de Protección Civil observed lava dome number 85 in the bottom of the inner summit crater. The dome was 210 m in diameter, 80 m thick, and had an irregular surface. The inner crater remained 350 m in diameter and was 90 m deep. CENAPRED reported that each day during 6-12 November there were 58-148 steam-and-gas emissions, some of which contained ash. Explosions at 0300 and 0501 on 6 November and at 0023 and 0655 on 7 November ejected incandescent tephra onto the upper flanks. Five more explosions were detected on 6 November. Eruptive events at 0858 and 0941 on 9 November generated ash plumes that rose 2 km above the crater rim and drifted NW; between those two ash emissions explosions were recorded at 0923 and 2055. Explosions on 10 November were recorded at 0648 and 1636. An explosion at 2203 on 11 November ejected incandescent tephra as far down the E flank as 1.5 km and generated an ash plume that rose 2 km and drifted NE. The Alert Level remained at Yellow, Phase Two (middle level on a three-colour scale).

Shishaldin | Fox Islands (USA) : AVO reported that the eruption at Shishaldin continued at variable levels during 5-12 November. Periods of high-amplitude tremor during 5-6 November were likely related to increased lava effusion and fountaining, though weather clouds prevented visual confirmation. Intermittent advancement of active lava flows and lahars on the N flank were confirmed in RADAR data, and by 7 November the lava flow was 1.3 km long and the debris flow runout was 5 km. Seismic tremor was low during 8-9 November suggesting lava effusion was less likely; weather cloud cover continued to obscure views, though elevated surface temperatures were sometimes detected during brief periods of clear weather. Activity significantly increased during 10-11 November with lava fountaining visible in webcam views throughout the evening and night. Strongly elevated surface temperatures at the summit and along the flanks were visible in satellite data. Ash emissions reported by pilots and visible on webcam images rose as high as 3.7 km (12,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted N. Activity decreased during 11-12 November. Strongly elevated surface temperatures were consistent with cooling lava flows. Seismicity decreased during the evening of 11 November and remained low. Minor steam-and-ash emissions were visible in webcam images. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Watch.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits the Saipan region, North Mariana Islands.

5.2 earthquake hits Seram, Indonesia.

5.1 earthquake hits offshore El Salvador.

5.1 earthquake hits southern Peru.

5.0 earthquake hits Vanuatu.

5.0 earthquake hits near the east coast of Honshu, Japan.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 26w (Fengshen), located approximately 620 nm east-northeast of WFO, Guam, is tracking westward at 12 knots.

Tropical depression 27w (Kalmaegi), located approximately 447 nm east of Manila, Philippines, is tracking west-northwestward at 08 knots.

NewsBytes:

South Africa - The extent of severe storms and a tornado that hit parts of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) between Richmond and Pietermaritzburg on Tuesday is yet to be determined, but two human casualties and 20 injuries had been reported by Wednesday morning. Many animals were reported to have been injured or killed in the area and power lines are also down. Numerous houses and public infrastructure were also damaged.

Italy - Heavy rain, hail, thunderstorms, and winds of more than 100 kilometres per hour hit many parts of southern Italy on Tuesday. Schools across many parts of the southern regions announced closures for Tuesday, and the Civil Protection Department warned drivers of the risk of falling trees and swollen rivers. While no injuries have been reported so far, there are widespread reports of damage to homes, businesses, electricity supplies and farmers' crops across all four regions. A tornado was reported off the coast of Siracuse, Sicily. In Basilicata, the coastal town of Metaponto was also reportedly hit by a tornado while nearby Matera suffered serious flooding.

Venice, Italy - Venice, Italy’s famous city of canals, is as much on the front line of climate change as anywhere else, and now that line is under water. On Tuesday, rains helped bring the seasonal high tides known as acqua alta to near record levels, just seven centimeters short of what was seen during the historic floods of 1966. Flooding in Venice during the northern autumn season is a normal and expected occurrence, but high tide data from recent years shows the fingerprints of rising sea levels. St. Mark’s Square at the city center has gone from flooding four times a year in 1900 to over 60 times annually in recent years. The famous Basilica of the same name also flooded Tuesday for just the sixth time in twelve centuries - the fifth time was in 2018.

Global Warming

Climate change triggers a chain reaction that threatens the heart of the Pacific

The salmon catch is collapsing off Japan's northern coast, plummeting by about 70 percent in the past 15 years. The disappearance of the fish coincides with another striking development: the loss of a unique blanket of sea ice that dips far below the Arctic to reach this shore.

The twin impacts - less ice, fewer salmon - are the products of rapid warming in the Sea of Okhotsk, wedged between Siberia and Japan. The area has warmed in some places by as much as 3 degrees Celsius (5.4 degrees Fahrenheit) since preindustrial times, making it one of the fastest-warming spots in the world, according to a Washington Post analysis of data from the nonprofit organization Berkeley Earth.

The rising temperatures are starting to shut down the single most dynamic sea ice factory on Earth. The intensity of ice generation in the northwestern Sea of Okhotsk exceeds that of any single place in the Arctic Ocean or Antarctica, and the sea ice reaches a lower latitude than anywhere else on the planet. Its decline has a cascade of consequences well beyond Japan as climate dominoes begin to fall.

When sea ice forms here, it expels huge amounts of salt into the frigid water below the surface, creating some of the densest ocean water on Earth. That water then sinks and travels east, carrying oxygen, iron and other key nutrients out into the northern Pacific Ocean, where marine life depends on it.

As the ice retreats, that nutrient-rich current is weakening, endangering the biological health of the vast northern Pacific - one of the most startling, and least discussed, effects of climate change so far observed.

Disease

Syphilis - Brazil

Health authorities in Brazil are reporting 158,000 cases of primary and secondary (P&S) syphilis syphilis this year, or 75.8 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. This is the highest number of cases since 2010.

Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever - Pakistan

The Pakistan Observer reports the 20th fatality due to Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in Karachi Monday. Health officials issued a health alert due to CCHF this past July.

Plague - China

Two people in China are being treated for plague, authorities said Tuesday. It's the second time the disease, the same one that caused the Black Death, one of the deadliest pandemics in human history, has been detected in the region -- in May, a Mongolian couple died from bubonic plague after eating the raw kidney of a marmot, a local folk health remedy.

Florida, USA Citrus in Danger

Bacteria is killing the second leading industry in Florida agriculture, specifically, our oranges. Florida’s orange production has been on decline for many years, in fact there are only a handful of citrus farms left in the state. Hurricanes and storms affect orange production, but a small insect, a psyllid, plays a part as well.

The insect originated in Asia and was spotted in South Florida around 2005. Although the insect does not produce the bacteria, it does spread it with ease, starting in the tree’s root and making its way up the leaves. Once infected the oranges are not orange, they are green, hence the name citrus greening. This disease is considered one of the most critical plant diseases in the planet, and there is no turning back once a tree is infected. “Ghost” orange groves in Florida are becoming more numerous as growers simply abandon their trees.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.1 earthquake hits Tonga.

5.4 earthquake hits Tonga.

5.3 earthquake hits Halmahera, Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits the Batan Islands in the Philippines.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 26w (Fengshen), located approximately 924 nm east of Andersen AFB, is tracking west-northwestward at 16 knots.

NewsBytes:

South Africa - Torrential rain has claimed two lives in Durban overnight, after most of KwaZulu-Natal was battered by adverse weather conditions on Monday evening and into the early hours of Tuesday morning. The relentless rainfall has shutdown major highways and caused traffic nightmares for the earnest commuters on the East Coast. The M4 highway has proved to be the most high-profile casualty, with a stretch between Umhlanga and Sibaya being shut down on Tuesday.

Ireland - Police have advised motorists to reduce their speed and take care as surface water is affecting a number of roads after heavy rains. A number of streets in Belfast have been closed because of flooding.

Disease

Measles - DR Congo

The largest measles outbreak on the globe continues to increase in cases and deaths. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) measles outbreak saw at least 10,000 additional cases since the last report last Monday. According to the latest WHO data, from 1 January to 27 October 2019, a cumulative total of 233,337 suspected measles cases with 4,723 deaths (CFR 2%) have been reported.

Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.2 earthquake hits the Scotia Sea.

5.2 earthquake hits off the east coast of Honshu, Japan.

5.1 earthquake hits northern Peru.

5.0 earthquake hits France.

5.0 earthquake hits Kepulauan Tanimbar, Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits Atacama, Chile.

Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms - Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Western Pacific Ocean: Tropical Storm 25w (Nakri), located approximately 193 nm northeast of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is tracking westward 07 knots.

NewsBytes:

UK - An entire village in South Yorkshire has been evacuated amid record flooding and seven "danger to life" warnings along the same river. About 700 people in Fishlake, north of Doncaster, were told to leave their homes for their own safety after the River Don burst its banks and hit its highest level ever recorded. By then homes were already under 400ft of water and stranded residents were being rescued by firefighters in boats.

Global Warming

Melting Arctic Ice Spreading Deadly Virus to Marine Mammals

A deadly virus is rapidly spreading among marine mammals in the Arctic. In a new study published Wednesday in the journal Nature, scientists have found a link between the disease and melting sea ice due to climate change.

Phocine distemper virus (PDV) has been a known pathogen in certain seal populations for decades, resulting in several mass mortality events involving tens of thousands of animals since 1988.

Researchers studied 15 years of data that tracked 2,500 marine mammals in a variety of locations via satellite.

Scientists also found a record amount of sea ice melt in August 2002 was followed by a widespread outbreak of PDV in North Pacific Steller sea lions in 2003 and 2004. During those years, over 30% of the animals tested positive for the virus.

Researchers concluded that melting Arctic sea ice caused by human-driven climate change paved the way for PDV to spread to new regions and infect new populations of marine mammals, especially along the northern Russian coast and along the coast of northern Canada.

Scientists believe the spread of pathogens could become more common as ice continues to melt, with the increased opportunity to affect more species.