Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.0 earthquake hits Easter Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits eastern Honshu, Japan.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Tropical Depression 05e (Enrique), located approximately 629nm southeast of San Diego, is tracking northwestward at 06 knots.

Newsbytes:

USA – Two people have died in western Texas as a result of heavy rain and flooding in the region that began 27 June 2021. Flooding was also reported in neighbouring Chihuahua state of Mexico, where at least 5 people had to be rescued.

USA – Flash floods struck parts of the state of New Mexico after more than 5 inches of rain (127 mm) fell in 24 hours. Levels of the Pecos River and Dark Canyon jumped, causing flooding in areas around Carlsbad and Eddy County on 29 June 2021. Almost 30 roadways were closed as a result. Eddy County officials said residents living near the Tansill Dam and Reservoir were evacuating. The Carlsbad Caverns National Park has been closed due to flooding.

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Global Warming

Enormous Antarctic lake vanishes in 3 days

An enormous, ice-covered lake in Antarctica vanished suddenly, and scientists are worried it could happen again.

In this disappearing act, which researchers say occurred during the 2019-2020 winter on the Amery Ice Shelf in East Antarctica, an estimated 21 billion to 26 billion cubic feet (600 million to 750 million cubic meters) of water — roughly twice the volume of San Diego Bay — drained into the ocean.

The scientists who used satellite observations to capture the shocking vanishing act say the lake drained in roughly three days after the ice shelf beneath it gave way.

“We believe the weight of water accumulated in this deep lake opened a fissure in the ice shelf beneath the lake, a process known as hydrofracture, causing the water to drain away to the ocean below,” Roland Warner, a glaciologist at the University of Tasmania.

Hydrofracturing leaves behind a gigantic fissure which compromises the structural integrity of the sheet as a whole. As meltwater lakes and streams multiply across the surface of Antarctica, researchers are concerned that growing volumes of surface meltwater could cause more hydrofracturing events, thus elevating sea levels above current projections.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

Visceral Leishmaniasis – Chad

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) is endemic in some areas of Chad. Sporadic cases of leishmaniasis have been reported in Chad since 2018. Since 1 January 2018 to 31 May 2021, a total 122 cases of VL and six fatalities have been reported by three provinces.

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.8 earthquake hits Vanuatu.

5.2 earthquake hits Kepulauan Sangihe, Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits Kyushu, Japan.

5.0 earthquake hits Vanuatu.

5.0 earthquake hits the southern mid-Atlantic ridge.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Hurricane 05e (Enrique), located approximately 849 nm southeast of San Diego, is tracking northwestward at 05 knots.

In the Atlantic Ocean: Post-Tropical term Danny is located about 95 mi…150 km ese of Atlanta Georgia with maximum sustained winds…25 mph…35 km/h. Present movement…wnw or 295 degrees at 17 mph…28 km/h.

Newsbytes:

China – Almost 20,000 people have evacuated their homes after flooding in Heilongjiang Province in northern China. Thousands of people are also affected by flooding in nearby parts of Inner Mongolia.

Mexico – Hurricane ‘Enrique’ brought strong winds, high surf and heavy rain to parts of western Mexico on 28 June 2021. Dozens of homes have been destroyed and 2 fatalities reported. Heavy rain and strong winds in the state damaged or destroyed as many as 207 homes and several sections of road. The municipalities of Coahuayutla and Copalillo are the worst affected areas. In Michoacán, severe flooding and wind damage was reported in the municipality of Lázaro Cárdenas. Heavy rainfall and flooding in Colima state damaged roads and caused the collapse of a bridge on the Manzanillo-Minatitlán highway.

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Global Warming

Unprecedented Heat Wave in Pacific Northwest Driven by Climate Change

A blistering heat wave obliterated high temperature records in Oregon and Washington over the weekend, ratcheting up risks for deaths and fires, and underscoring the dangers of climate change.

Portland, Oregon’s biggest city, hit a sweltering all-time high of 112 degrees Fahrenheit yesterday at its international airport, the National Weather Service said. That broke a record of 108 F set just a day earlier. Both days topped the previous record of 107 F, reached in 1981 and 1965.

The temperature in Salem, Oregon’s capital, soared to 113 F yesterday, smashing a record of 108 F hit in 1941 and 1927.

Farther north, the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport hit 104 F yesterday a new all-time high that edged out the area’s previous record of 103 F, set in 2009.

Even beaches baked. Hoquiam, Wash., on the state’s west coast, reached 102 F. That shattered the previous record of 95 F set in 2016.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever – Baja California

23 cases of rickettsiosis have been diagnosed, of which eight died so far in 2021. The eight fatalities were reported in children and adolescents. Children are more vulnerable and that the children and adolescents who were affected had a greater coexistence with their dogs, which carried the infected ticks.

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.6 earthquake hits Java, Indonesia.

5.3 earthquake hits the Bonin Islands off Japan.

5.2 earthquake hits Timor, Indonesia.

5.2 earthquake hits the southern east Pacific rise.

5.0 earthquake hits Kepulauan Metawai, Indonesia.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Hurricane 05e (Enrique), located approximately 970 nm southeast of San Diego, is tracking northwestward at 05 knots.

Newsbytes:

Russia – Over 2,500 people have evacuated their homes in response to rising river levels in Amur Oblast in the Far East Region of Russia. As of 28 June, 764 homes were flooded across 8 municipalities of Amur Oblast, according to the Emergency Ministry, EMERCOM. in addition, over 1,800 yards and gardens were also flooded. Roads have been completely blocked to transport in 12 locations across Magdagachinsky, Shimanovsky, Blagoveshchensky and Svobodnensky Districts. Eight bridges have also been damaged. As a result, eleven communities are isolated.

Bulgaria – Dozens of homes were damaged after a torrential downpour in Sliven Province, Bulgaria, 26 June 2021. Officials say as much as 60 mm of rain fell in the space of just 1 hour in the municipality of Kotel. The ensuing floods damaged property and vehicles. Officials reported damage to homes and businesses, with flood water up to 1 metre deep. Local media reported more than 200 houses were damaged, 50 of them severely. A museum and a power substation were also damaged.

Venezuela – Flooding in Caracas, capital of Venezuela, and surrounding areas damaged homes and roads, prompting evacuations and leaving vehicles stranded. Flooding came after heavy rainfall on 24 June, 2021. Streets in the capital were inundated and trafic disrupted.

USA – Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall over the weekend 25 to 27 June caused flash flooding across parts of Missouri, USA. Roads were swamped and vehicles stranded. Some homes and businesses were damaged, prompting evacuations. One person died and two were rescued after a vehicle went into flood waters in Clinton County.

USA – The governor of Michigan declared a state of emergency in response to “extraordinary flooding” in southeast Michigan. Police said flooded metro Detroit freeways were “littered with abandoned vehicles.” Heavy rain began on 25 June 2021. Officials reported flooded roadways, stranded motorists, damaged homes and displaced residents. The hardest hit were areas of Detroit and surrounding Wayne County. Flooded roadways were also reported in Oakland and Macomb counties. Wind damage caused power outages for around 40,000 homes and businesses in the region.

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Global Warming

European Union countries approve landmark climate change law

European Union countries on Monday gave the final seal of approval to a law to make the bloc’s greenhouse gas emissions targets legally binding, as EU policymakers prepare a huge new package of policies to fight climate change which sets targets to reduce net EU emissions by 55% by 2030, from 1990 levels, and eliminate them by 2050.

The climate law also requires Brussels to launch an independent expert body to advise on climate policies, and a budget-like mechanism to calculate the total emissions the EU can produce from 2030-2050, under its climate targets.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

Measles – Pakistan

In the past month and a half, the city of Jacobabad, in northern Sindh province, has seen a surge of measles deaths in children. An additional child, a 3-year-old boy, died from measles, bringing the total death toll of children by measles to 50.

Malaria – Angola

Angola has seen at least 5,573 deaths from malaria through the end of May. The minister noted that some 2 million malaria cases have been reported primarily in Luanda, Lunda Norte, Malanje, Huambo, Uige, Benguela, Bie and Huila provinces.

Food Poisoning – Ukraine

On June 21, 2021, a case of botulism – food poisoning was registered in Melitopol- a city in Zaporizhzhia Oblast of southeastern Ukraine, according to the city health department.

In a separate incident, 89 people, including 19 children, have been hospitalized for food poisoning in the Kharkiv region. Two patients, registered on June 22, are residents of Lugansk, who were on a business trip in the city of Kharkov and ate sushi in the Yakitoria restaurant.

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.5 earthquake hits the northern mid-Atlantic ridge.

5.3 earthquake hits Mindanao in the Philippines.

5.1 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical Storm 06w (Champi), located approximately 247 nm southeast of Yokosuka, Japan, is tracking north-northeastward at 22 knots.

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Hurricane 05e (Enrique), located approximately 1100 nm southeast of San Diego, is tracking northward at 03 knots.

Newsbytes:

Ghana – Days of heavy rainfall triggered deadly flash flooding in parts of the Ashanti Region of Ghana. At least four people have died in the floods. Areas of Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana’s second-largest city, and surrounding districts were among the hardest hit. Images shared on Social Media showed city streets and the New Kejetia Market inundated.

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Wildfires

Wildfires – Oregon, USA

Three wildfires which had gown to over 900 acres prompted the closures of westbound lanes of Highway 30 and Interstate 84 temporarily in the Columbia River Gorge west of The Dalles on Friday and Oregon State Police troopers ordered an evacuation notice for residents in the Rowena area.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

Lassa fever – Nigeria

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reported an additional six confirmed Lassa fever during the week ending June 20, bringing the country total to 302 this year. The new cases were reported from Edo and Ondo States. Two additional deaths were reported among the confirmed cases, which put the total fatalities

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.4 Earthquake hits the Solomon Islands.

5.3 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

5.1 earthquake hits southeast of Easter Island.

5.1 earthquake hits eastern Turkey.

5.0 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 06w (Champi), located approximately 101 nm northwest of Iwo To, is tracking north-northeastward at 12 knots.

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Hurricane 05e (Enrique), located approximately 1188 nm southeast of San Diego, is tracking west-northwestward at 07 knots.

Newsbytes:

Romania – Authorities in Romania report that floods, heavy rain and strong winds have affected wide areas of the country since 18 June 2021. As of 23 June as many as 16 counties were affected. Firefighters were called on to remove flood water from houses, yards and streets or responded to incidents of wind damage including downed trees and power lines.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

Dengue Fever – Reunion

From June 7 to 13, 1,474 cases of dengue fever were confirmed. Although the epidemic continues to decline, the various indicators still indicate an intense circulation of the virus and remain largely higher than those observed in previous years at the same period.

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.1 earthquake hits the Bougainville region, Papua New Guinea.

5.1 earthquake hits south of the Kermedec Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits the Hindu Kush, Afghanistan.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Typhoon 06w (Champi), located approximately 199 nm southwest of Iwo To, is tracking northward at 09 knots.

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Global Warming

Warming Arctic

EU satellites recorded ground temperatures above 118 degrees Fahrenheit in Arctic Siberia on June 20 — the 2021 summer solstice and summer is just heating up.

The heat wave baking Siberia on June 20 saw ground temperatures reach 118 degrees Fahrenheit in an area that often records the world’s coldest temperatures during winter.

The reading near Verkhoyansk was measured by Europe’s Copernicus Sentinel satellite system.

While the air temperature recorded in Verkhoyansk was only 86 degrees that day, many Siberian temperature records were broken. The scorching ground heat was also observed across a wide area of Siberia in a development that does not bode well for Russia’s rapidly melting permafrost and the potent greenhouse gases the melt is releasing.

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Wildlife

Conservation Backfires

Conservationists in Tasmania may be ruing the decision to introduce endangered Tasmanian devils to a small island, after a new survey revealed that the alien invaders have wiped out the entire colony of little penguins living there.

Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii), the world’s largest carnivorous marsupials, were introduced to Maria Island — a 45-square-mile (116 square kilometers) island east of Tasmania in 2012. The government hoped to create a new devil population to prevent the species from being wiped out by a deadly disease that has decimated their numbers in Tasmania.

However, the introduction of one species has meant the end of another: The new DPIPWE survey showed that the introduction of devils to the island wiped out 3,000 breeding pairs of little penguins (Eudyptula minor) living on the island.

Mice Overrun Prison

The vast mouse plague that has ravaged Australian agriculture and wildlife for more than a year has also infested a New South Wales prison so badly that the entire prison population and staff had to be evacuated to other facilities.

The rodents gnawed through wiring and ceiling panels, and littered the prison with their dead carcasses. “The mice start decaying, and then the next problem is mites, and we just don’t want to expose staff and prisoners to anything that could cause harm to their health,” said Peter Severin, commissioner of the state’s corrective services department.

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Environment

Global Temperature Extremes

The week’s hottest temperature was 125 degrees Fahrenheit (51.7 degrees Celsius) in Death Valley, California.

The week’s coldest temperature was minus 107.0 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 77.2 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.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – Ongoing Activity for the Week 16 June – 22 June 2021

Aira – Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported that during 14-21 June incandescence from Minamidake Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) was visible nightly. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was elevated at 1,400 tons per day on 15 June. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a 5-level scale), and residents were warned to stay 2 km away from the crater.

Ebeko – Paramushir Island (Russia) : According to volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island), about 7 km E of Ebeko, explosions during 11-18 June produced ash plumes that rose as high as 3.5 km (11,500 ft) a.s.l. and drifted in multiple directions. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Etna – Sicily (Italy) : INGV reported that there were several episodes of lava fountaining at Etna’s Southeast Crater (SEC) during 14-23 June, and additional periods of Strombolian activity and ash emissions. The lava fountaining episodes were recorded during 1332-1450 on 16 June, 2220 on 18 June to 0210 on 19 June, 2040-2215 on 19 June, 1131 on 20 June to 0214 on 21 June, overnight during 21-22 June, and in the early hours of 22 and 23 June. Each episode began with Strombolian activity which was followed by lava fountaining and crater overflows sending lava down the flanks. Ash plumes that rose as high as 4.7 km above the summit and sometimes caused ashfall in areas downwind. Lava flows on 16 June descended the SW and SE flanks, and those produced on 21 June traveled about 1 km SW, towards Monte Frumento Supino, and stopped at 2,900 m elevation. The lava fountains on 21 June were notably tall.

Fuego – Guatemala, : INSIVUMEH reported that on 15 June lahars descended the Las Lajas and El Jute drainages on Fuego’s SE flank, carrying tree branches and blocks as large as 1.5 m in diameter. During 16-22 June there were 4-15 explosions per hour, generating ash plumes as high as 1.1 km above the crater rim. Daily shock waves rattled buildings in towns around the volcano, and within 15 km of the S and SW flanks during 20-21 June. Ashfall was reported almost daily in several areas downwind, including Panimaché I and II (8 km SW), Santa Sofía (12 km SW), Sangre de Cristo (8 km WSW), and San Pedro Yepocapa (8 km NW). Block avalanches descended the Ceniza (SSW), Seca (W), Trinidad (S), Taniluyá (SW), Las Lajas (SE), and Honda drainages, often reaching vegetated areas. Explosions ejected incandescent material 100-350 m above the summit each day.

Ibu – Halmahera (Indonesia) PVMBG reported that during 15-21 June gray-and-white ash plumes from Ibu rose 200-800 m above the summit and drifted N, E, and S. As many as 63 eruptive events per day were recorded during 18-20 June. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay at least 2 km away from the active crater and 3.5 km away on the N side.

Kadovar – Papua New Guinea : Based on satellite and wind model data, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 19 June ash plumes from Kadovar rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W.

Karymsky – Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Karymsky was visible in satellite images during 10-11, 14, and 17 June. Ash plumes drifted 70 km NE on 15 and 17 June. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Lewotolok – Lembata Island (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that white-and-gray plumes from Lewotolok rose as high as 1 km and drifted W and NW daily during 16-22 June. Incandescent material was ejected as high as 500 m above the summit and 300-500 m away from the vent in multiple directions almost daily. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the summit crater.

Merapi – Central Java (Indonesia) : BPPTKG reported that the lava dome just below Merapi’s SW rim and the lava dome in the summit crater both continued to be active during 11-17 June. The SW rim lava-dome volume was an estimated 1.39 million cubic meters by 17 June, with a growth rate of 11,300 cubic meters per day, and continued to shed material down the flank. A total of 19 pyroclastic flows traveled a maximum of 2 km down the SW flank and 1 km SE. Incandescent avalanches, recorded 100 times, traveled as far as 2 km down the SW flank and eight times went 1 km SE. The summit lava dome grew taller by 1 m. At 0350 on 20 June a pyroclastic flow traveled 2.5 km down the SW flank. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 5 km away from the summit.

Pacaya – Guatemala : INSIVUMEH reported that during 15-22 June white gas plumes rose as high as 600 m above Pacaya’s Mackenney Crater and drifted as far as 5 km NW, W, and SW. Some weak explosions were recorded by the seismic network during 17-18 June.

Sabancaya – Peru : Instituto Geofísico del Perú (IGP) reported a daily average of 80 explosions at Sabancaya during 14-20 June. Gas-and-ash plumes rose as high as 2.3 km above the summit and drifted S, SE, E, and NE. Seven thermal anomalies originating from the lava dome in the summit crater were identified in satellite data. Minor inflation continued to be detected near Hualca Hualca (4 km N). 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.

Sangay – Ecuador IG reported a high level of activity at Sangay during 15-22 June. Weather clouds and rain often prevented visual and webcam observations of the volcano; almost daily lahars were detected by the seismic network. Ash plumes were identified in satellite images by the Washington VAAC ash plumes almost daily, rising as high as 1.2 km above the volcano and drifting W and SW. Thermal anomalies continued to be often visible in satellite data.

Semeru – Eastern Java (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that Semeru continued to erupt during 16-22 June. Inclement weather often prevented visual observations, through gray-and-white plumes were visible on 17 and 20 June rising 400-600 m above the summit and drifting S and N. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), with a general exclusion zone of 1 km and extensions to 5 km in the SSE sector.

Semisopochnoi – Aleutian Islands (USA) : AVO lowered Semisopochnoi’s Aviation colour Code to Yellow and the Volcano Alert Level to Advisory on 16 June, reporting that no explosions or ash emissions had been detected since 30 May and seismicity was relatively low. The report noted that elevated surface temperatures and sulfur dioxide emissions were recorded on several occasions during the previous few weeks, indicating continued volcanic unrest.

Sheveluch – Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 10-18 June. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Suwanosejima – Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that 15 explosions at Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater produced eruption plumes that rose as high as 1.8 km above the crater rim during 11-18 June. Large volcanic bombs were ejected 500 m from the crater. Ashfall was reported in Toshima village (4 km SSW). Crater incandescence was visible nightly. The Alert Level remained at 2 and the public was warned to stay 1 km away from the crater.

Taal – Luzon (Philippines) : PHIVOLCS reported that unrest at Taal continued during 15-22 June. Low-level background tremor that had begun at 0905 on 8 April continued. One volcanic earthquake was recorded during 15-16 June, and 92 were recorded during 18-19 June along with 10 low-frequency volcanic earthquakes. Between two and 82 episodes of volcanic tremor were detected during 18-19, 19-20, and 21-22 June, with periods lasting as short as one minute to as long as four hours. Almost daily upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in the crater lake produced steam plumes that rose as high as 1.2 km and drifted in multiple directions. Sulfur dioxide emissions averaged 3,007-5,604 tonnes/day. PHIVOLCS noted the continuing state of elevated unrest, reminding the public that the Alert Level for Taal remained at 2 (on a scale of 0-5). PHIVOLCS strongly recommended no entry onto the island, and access to the Main Crater, Daang Kastila fissure (along the walking trail), and boating on Taal Lake was strictly prohibited.

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.8 earthquake hits the Banda Sea.

5.4 earthquake hits Western Australia.

5.3 earthquake hits the Ceram Sea, Indonesia.

5.1 earthquake hits the Mariana Islands.

5.1 earthquake hits the Pacific-Antarctic ridge.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 06w (Champi), located approximately 313 nm south-southwest of Iwo To, is tracking north-northwestward at 06 knots.

Newsbytes:

Colombia – Civil Defence in Colombia recently reported that over 20,000 people have been affected by heavy rain, floods and landslides across the country over the last 2 weeks. Almost 2,800 homes have been damaged and over 200 destroyed. At least 1 fatality was reported in Meta Department and one person reported missing in Antioquia.

Switzerland – Damaging flash floods swept though villages of Neuchâtel Canton in Switzerland late on 22 June 2021. Roads were ripped up and cars upturned. Fortunately no injuries or fatalities were reported. Local rivers overflowed sending torrents of water, debris and sludge into the streets of the Cressier and Frochaux during the evening of 22 June. Landslides were also reported in the area.

Virginia, USA – Heavy rainfall from 21 to 22 June caused flooding in Cameron and surrounding areas of Marshall County, West Virginia. The county reported damages to businesses, homes, municipal buildings, educational facilities and recreational facilities. Reports soon after the flooding struck suggest around 30 homes and buildings have been damaged. Flood water in parts of the city was up to 5 feet / 1.5 metres deep in places.

Europe – A series of storms brought flash flooding to parts of Poland, Czechia, Germany and Italy from 20 to 22 June 2021. The city of Poznan in western Poland was among the hardest hit areas, where buildings including a hospital were damaged.

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Global Warming

Climate Change Brings Starvation to Madagascar

Climate change is the driving force of a developing food crisis in southern Madagascar, the UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) has warned. The African island has been plagued with back-to-back droughts — its worst in four decades — which have pushed 1.14 million people right to the very edge of starvatio.

Families are suffering and people are already dying from severe hunger. This is not because of war or conflict, this is because of climate change. This is an area of the world that has contributed nothing to climate change, but now, they’re the ones paying the highest price. An estimated 14,000 people are already in catastrophic conditions, according to the WFP, a number that is predicted to double to 28,000 by October. Thousands in southern Madagascar have left their homes in search of food, while those who remain are resorting to extreme measures such as foraging for wild food to survive.

The warning came a day after the WFP said 41 million people in 43 countries were now teetering on the edge of starvation, with 584,000 already experiencing famine-like conditions across Madagascar, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Nigeria, Burkina Faso and Yemen. This number has increased from 27 million in 2019.

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Wildfires

Wildfires – Colorado, USA

Multiple wildfires, including six that the National Interagency Fire Center considers “large,” are burning in Colorado as hot and dry conditions persist around the state.

Oil Springs Fire in White River National Forest: 11,933 acres, 0% contained

Sylvan Fire in White River National Forest: 3,583 acres, 0% contained

West Fire in Moffat County: 3,107 acres, 30% contained

Trail Canyon Fire in Ute Tribal lands in Montezuma County: 881 acres, 90% contained

Wild Cow Fire in Grand Junction: 553 acres, 0% contained

Collom Fire in Moffat County: 640 acres, 95% contained

The Muddy Slide Fire, which is now 4,000 acres about 18 miles west of Kremmling, is expected to be added to the above list.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – New Activity for the Week 16 June – 22 June 2021

No new Global Volcanic Activity was reported this week.

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.5 earthquake hits near the coast of Central Peru.

5.3 earthquake hits the Drake Passage.

5.3 earthquake hits Coquimbo, Chile.

5.1 earthquake hits southeast of the Loyalty Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits Oaxaca, Mexico.

5.0 earthquake hits the southwest Indian ridge.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 06w (Champi), located approximately 397 nm south of Iwo To, is tracking northward at 11 knots.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

Cholera – Nigeria

Since the beginning of the year, 10,833 suspected cholera cases have been reported with 112 confirmed cases and 289 deaths in 2021.

African Swine Fever – Bhutan

An outbreak was reported in the country of Bhutan, the landlocked country bordering China and India in South Asia. On 13 May, the first ASF outbreak was confirmed in Phentshogling town, Chhukha district, Bhutan, causing deaths of more than 30 stray pigs. The infected area is bordering with West Bengal State of India. It is also reported that these pigs uncontrollably move across Bhutan-India border. Bhutan is the 16th country in Asia to report an ASF outbreak.

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.1 earthquake hits the Dodecanese Islands – Turkish Border.

5.4 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

5.1 earthquake hits the southern east Pacific rise.

5.0 earthquake hits Chiapas, Mexico.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 06w (Six), located approximately 201 nm west of Andersen AFB, Guam, is tracking west-northwestward at 10 knots.

Newsbytes:

France – Thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rains caused flooding in Marne, Somme and Oise departments of northern and eastern France, 21 to 21 June 2021. One person was reported missing after flash floods in the city of Beauvais and surrounding areas in Oise Department. Search operations are continuing for a man after he was swept away by flood water of the Thérain River. The government of Oise Department said 35 to 60 mm of rain fell in Beauvais in just 1 hour late on 21 June.

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Global Warming

Drought, Climate Change Helping to Kill Off Plants

UC Irvine scientists concluded in a study released Monday that climate change is contributing to the dying-off of plant species. The researchers, who focused on 5,000 square miles surrounding Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, found that from 1984 through 2017, vegetation in the deserts declined by about 35% and 13% in the mountains.

Plants are dying and nothing’s replacing them. The drought conditions and rising temperatures appear to be contributing to the decline in vegetation cover in the deserts, the researchers found.

Conditions in the mountains for pines and oaks are better due to more rain.

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Wildfires

Wildfires – Oregon, USA

A wildfire southeast of Mount Hood has grown to about 6,200 acres since Friday night, and as of Monday morning crews had not been able to achieve any containment, according to fire officials.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

Unknown Disease Linked to Camels – Ethiopia

The World Health Organization (WHO) was recently notified of an outbreak of human infections linked to camels in the Oromia and Somali areas of Ethiopia that has affected nearly 200 people.

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

6.3 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

5.5 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

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

5.3 earthquake hits Hokkaido, Japan.

5.1 earthquake hits the southern Atlantic Ocean.

5.1 earthquake hits the Pagan region, North Mariana Islands.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Atlantic Ocean: Tropical Storm Claudette is located about about 65 mi…100 km ese of Raleigh North Carolina and about 120 mi…190 km n of Cape Fear North Carolina with maximum sustained winds…40 mph…65 km/h. Present movement…ene or 65 degrees at 25 mph…41 km/h.

In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 06w (Six), located approximately 139 nm southeast of Andersen afb, Japan, is tracking west-northwestward at 11 knots.

Newsbytes:

USA – A severe thunderstorm caused damage and brought heavy rainfall and flash flooding in Bloomington, Indiana, USA, late on 18 June 2021. One person was reported missing and later found dead.

USA – Tropical Storm Claudette formed along the US Gulf Coast early 19 June, 2021 bringing heavy rains and some flooding to coastal areas of Mississippi and Louisiana. Flooding also affected parts of Alabama, where one person was reported missing. As of 20 June, several storm-related fatalities were reported, including 12 people who died in a road accident in Butler County, Alabama reportedly caused by flood waters. One person died in flood water in DeKalb County, Alabama and 2 fatalities were caused by a falling tree in the Tuscaloosa area.

India – Thousands of people have been affected by flooding after days of heavy rainfall in northern and eastern India and neighbouring countries caused rivers to rise above the danger mark in the states of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Meanwhile India’s Ministry of Home Affairs reported on 20 June that at least 9 people have died in rain and severe weather-related incidents across the country over the last few days.

New Zealand – Another spell of torrential rain has caused flooding in New Zealand, closing roads and promoting evacuations on the East Coast of North Island. Severe flooding last month caused widespread damage in the South Island region of Canterbury. At least 9 locations across the district saw more than 100mm of rain fall in 24 hours to 20 June. Waikura Valley recorded 185.50 mm during this period.

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Wildfires

Wildfires – Utah, USA

Sunday afternoon saw 11 active wildfires burning across Utah, with the largest continuing to be the Flatt Fire in Iron County. That blaze had burned 14,443 acres and was 15% contained as of Sunday morning, although that containment figure was an improvement over Saturday, when the fire was 0% contained.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.4 earthquake hits Chiapas, Mexico.

5.3 earthquake hits southern Sumatra, Indonesia.

5.3 earthquake hits Fiji.

5.1 earthquake hits Fiji.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Atlantic Ocean: Tropical Depression Claudette is located about 85 mi…135 km wsw of Atlanta Georgia and about 450 mi…725 km w of Cape Fear North Carolina with maximum sustained winds…30 mph…45 km/h. Present movement…ene or 60 degrees at 13 mph…20 km/h.

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 04e (Dolores), located approximately 913 nm southeast of San Diego, is tracking northward at 10 knots.

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Environment

Sargassum Explosion

Beaches in Florida, the Caribbean and tropical Atlantic are being overwhelmed by masses of sargassum, a seaweed now growing explosively because of fertilizer runoff.

While the seaweed is key to the marine environment, excessive nitrogen and phosphorus in coastal waters from the fertilizers have caused the proliferation.

This poses a health risk as rotting sargassum creates toxic hydrogen sulfide gas that can be dangerous for people with asthma and other respiratory problems. Florida Atlantic University professor Brian Lapointe says levels of fecal bacteria can also be high around the decaying blooms. He adds that runoff from the Mississippi River and others from the Amazon to the Congo are responsible for the new great “Atlantic Sargassum Belt.”

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

Ebola – Guinea

Guinean health authorities today declared the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak over today. The outbreak in Guinea was declared on February 14 this year. Cumulatively 23 cases, 12 deaths (CFR: 52%), and 10 recoveries of EVD have been reported. This includes five health workers.

Hantavirus – Panama

So far in 2021, 11 cases of hantavirus have been registered in Panama, of which 6 cases have been classified as Cardiopulmonary Syndrome due to Hantavirus (SCPH) and 5 cases as hantavirus fever (FH).

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits the Panama-Costa Rica border.

5.0 earthquake hits northern Algeria.

5.0 earthquake hits south of Fiji.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Tropical Storm 04e (Dolores), located approximately 1235 nm southeast of San Diego, is tracking north-northwestward at 09 knots.

Newsbytes:

Crimea – Heavy rain and flooding has affected Ukraine and Russian annexed Crimea over the last few days. Authorities said parts of the city of Kerch in Crimea were under 1.6 metres of water on 17 June 2021. 1,700 people have been affected by the flooding in Crimea, mostly in the city of Kerch and surrounding areas of Lenins’kyi district. Minor flooding was also reported in Kirovske and Sovietskyi districts. Power and water supply was interrupted for thousands of people in Kerch and Lenins’kyi district. The heavy rainfall and overflowing Melek-Chesme river flooded wide areas of the city of Kerch, including the City Hospital.

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Global Warming

The Earth is Trapping Twice the Heat of Only 15 years Ago

The planet is trapping roughly double the amount of heat in the atmosphere than it did nearly 15 years ago, according to an alarming new analysis from NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The study, published this week in the journal Geophysical Research Letters, found that what’s known as the Earth’s energy imbalance — the difference between how much of the sun’s energy the planet absorbs and how much energy is radiated back into space — approximately doubled from 2005 to 2019. The result was “striking,” the research team wrote.

Life on Earth couldn’t exist without the sun’s energy, but it matters how much of that energy is radiated back into space. It’s a delicate balance that determines the planet’s climate.

In addition to higher global temperatures, the most obvious effect of a positive imbalance is that we’re going to be seeing shifts in atmospheric circulations including more extreme events like droughts and severe storms.

Climate Change is Killing the Pacific Island Nation of Kiribati

Kiribati is an independent island nation in Oceania with a population of 117,606 people living among its twenty inhabitable islands. Kiribati has few natural resources and relies heavily on imports from other countries. It is one of the world’s poorest nations with a GDP of around $195 million.

The greatest risk Kiribati faces is rising sea and water levels. The people of Kiribati have migrated inland but this has not prevented large-scale devastation every time a flood occurs. While Kiribati is responsible for only 0.0002% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, it is paying the highest price for the effects of climate change. Two of the nation’s islands have already been destroyed by the ocean.

As ocean walls are continually destroyed and rebuilt, the people of the island are forced to make difficult decisions daily, whether it is rebuilding a school, hospital, or the sea wall. In most cases, rebuilding the sea wall takes precedence. Crops are continuously destroyed, and barren forests stripped of lush greenery and crops remain graveyards, awaiting the next flood. The flat island atolls indicate that people’s only option to escape is to migrate further inland, and they will continue to do so until there is no land left.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

Naegleria fowleri – Pakistan

Pakistan has been a hotspot for infections with the “brain-eating amoeba”, Naegleria fowleri in recent years and now officials are reporting two more cases/deaths in the city of Karachi.

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.5 earthquake hits south of Alaska.

5.2 earthquake hits Pakistan.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 04e (Four), located approximately 1401 nm southeast of San Diego, is tracking westward at 09 knots.

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Environment

Wind Power Over-population

The expansion of wind farms to generate power could reach a point of diminishing returns if too many are placed near each other, new research finds. This is a real threat for coastal areas of Northern Europe, where limited space is seeing the turbines being built in clusters.

Writing in the journal Scientific Reports, researchers say wind speeds up to 60 miles downwind of the farms are significantly slowed down by them under some weather conditions.

This means output from neighbouring wind farms could be reduced up to 25% if they are placed too close together.

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Wildlife

Travelling Elephants

A herd of wayward elephants that has mysteriously trekked about 300 miles across southern China this spring took a break to rest and to wait for an errant youngster to catch up.

State broadcaster CCTV reports that despite repeated calls from the impatient adults, the 10-year-old doesn’t appear to be in any hurry to reunite with the main group. Before the pachyderms’ respite, hundreds of trucks were dispatched to keep the 15 ambling migrants out of populated areas. Officials say they are planning to use food bait and roadblocks to help guide the herd to a new suitable habitat once it is moving again.

The elephants take a snooze during their journey.

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Environment

Global Temperature Extremes

The week’s hottest temperature was 119 degrees Fahrenheit (48.3 degrees Celsius) in Non Kundi, Pakistan.

The week’s coldest temperature was minus 104.0 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 75.6 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.

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Wildfires

Wildfires – Colorado, USA

The Collom wildfire burning southwest of Craig in the northwestern part of Colorado was five percent contained but had consumed nearly 650 acres as of Wednesday afternoon.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – Ongoing Activity for the Week 9 June – 15 June 2021

Aira – Kyushu (Japan) : JMA reported that during 7-14 June incandescence from Minamidake Crater (at Aira Caldera’s Sakurajima volcano) was visible nightly. The sulfur dioxide emission rate was low at 900 tons per day on 9 June. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a 5-level scale), and residents were warned to stay 2 km away from the crater.

Asosan – Kyushu (Japan) : Volcanic tremor amplitude had increased at Asoson on 2 May, prompting JMA to raise the Alert Level to 2 (on a scale of 1-5). The amplitude remained high through 10 May, and then gradually decreased. On 9 June the Alert Level was lowered to 1 and the public was warned of an increased risk within 1 km of Nakadake Crater.

Bulusan – Luzon (Philippines) : At 2300 on 12 June PHIVOLCS stated that unrest at Bulusan had again increased, with a total of 95 weak volcanic earthquakes occurring during the previous 17 hours. Diffuse white steam plumes rose from the SW vents. Inflation of the upper flanks first recorded on 6 March in tilt data was sustained. GPS data indicated short-term inflation starting in May, though the long-term pattern since May 2019 showed overall deflation. The seismic unrest was likely due to shallow hydrothermal activity; the Alert Level remained at 1 and the public was reminded not to enter the 4-km-radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ).

Dukono – Halmahera (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that during 8-10 and 14 June ash plumes from Dukono rose 100-600 m above the summit and drifted NW, NE, E, and SW. Weather conditions prevented visual observations during 10-13 and 15 June. 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) : According to volcanologists in Severo-Kurilsk (Paramushir Island), about 7 km E of Ebeko, explosions during 4-6 and 9-10 June produced ash plumes that rose as high as 2.6 km (8,500 ft) a.s.l. and drifted in different directions. A thermal anomaly was identified in satellite images on 10 June. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Ibu – Halmahera (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that during 9-15 June gray-and-white ash plumes from Ibu rose 200-800 m above the summit and drifted mainly N and E. Rock avalanches were recorded during 11-13 June, though they were not visually confirmed. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay at least 2 km away from the active crater and 3.5 km away on the N side.

Kadovar – Papua New Guinea : Based on satellite and wind model data, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 12 June ash plumes from Kadovar rose to an altitude of 1.2 km (4,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W.

Karymsky – Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Karymsky was visible in satellite images during 3 and 8-10 June. Ash plumes drifted 40 km NE during 6-8 June. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Kerinci – Indonesia : PVMBG reported that at 1730 on 13 June an ash plume from Kerinci rose 700 m above the summit and drifted W. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to remain outside of the 3-km exclusion zone.

Krysuvik-Trolladyngja – Iceland : The fissure eruption in the W part of the Krýsuvík-Trölladyngja volcanic system, close to Fagradalsfjall on the Reykjanes Peninsula, continued during 9-15 June. Lava fountaining from the fifth vent was periodically visible, and lava from the crater flowed in tubes as well as on the surface. Sections of the cone’s rim periodically collapsed, sending lava cascading down the flanks. A notable event on 10 June began with lava rising in the crater and vigorously splashing above the rim; an overflow began with several streams of lava that quickly merged into a wide, fast-moving “lava fall” that broke parts of the crater rim. On 13 June lava overflowed the southern area of Geldingadalur valley and flowed over hiking trail “A”, causing authorities to restrict access to the eruption site that day due to safety reasons. The narrow lava flow then turned E and entered the Nátthaga valley from the W wall and joined the larger advancing flow. Lava in Nátthaga continued to get closer to Highway 427 (Suðurstrandarvegur) to the S, and buried fiber optic communication cables. The leading edge of the flow ignited the vegetation, causing small fires. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange due to the lack of ash and tephra emissions, though IMO warned of the potential for lapilli and scoria fallout within a 650 m radius of the active vent. Authorities warned of increased gas emissions hazards.

Langila – New Britain (Papua New Guinea) : Based on analyses of satellite imagery and wind model data, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 13-14 June ash plumes from Langila rose 2.1-3 km (7,000-10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W and WNW.

Lewotolok – Lembata Island (Indonesia) : PVMBG reported that white-and-gray plumes from Lewotolok rose as high as 800 m and drifted W and E almost daily during 9-15 June. Incandescent material was ejected 200-500 m SE during 8-10 June. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the summit crater.

Merapi – Central Java (Indonesia) : BPPTKG reported that the lava domes just below Merapi’s SW rim and in the summit crater remained active during 4-10 June. The SW rim lava-dome volume was an estimated 1.3 million cubic meters on 8 June, and continued to shed material down the flank. A total of 12 pyroclastic flows traveled a maximum of 1.6 km down the SW flank and 1 km SE. Incandescent avalanches, recorded 52 times, traveled as far as 2 km down the SW flank and three times went 600 m SE. The volume of the summit lava dome was 2.1 million cubic meters on 8 June. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 5 km away from the summit.

Semisopochnoi – Aleutian Islands (USA) : AVO reported that seismic activity at Semisopochnoi was low during 9-15 June and no eruptive activity was detected in infrasound or satellite data. Elevated surface temperatures and steaming from the active vent were occasionally identified in satellite images. Sulfur dioxide emissions were visible in satellite data during 11-13 June. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange and the Volcano Alert Level remained at Watch.

Sheveluch – Central Kamchatka (Russia) : KVERT reported that a thermal anomaly over Sheveluch was identified in satellite images during 3, 6, and 8-10 June. The Aviation colour Code remained at Orange (the second highest level on a four-colour scale).

Sinabung – Indonesia : PVMBG reported that avalanches of material from Sinabung’s summit lava dome were occasionally recorded during 11-13 June but not visually observed due to weather conditions. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), with a general exclusion zone of 3 km and extensions to 5 km in the SE sector and 4 km in the NE sector.

Soufriere St. Vincent – St. Vincent : University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI-SRC) reported that seismicity at Soufrière St. Vincent (often simply referred to as “La Soufriere”) had remained low since the last episode of ash venting on 22 April. Some daily earthquakes were recorded during 7-15 June. Steam-and-gas plumes rose from a few areas inside the crater and thermal anomalies persisted. The crater was observed and photographed during 11-12 June; observers saw no signs of lava domes. The Alert Level remained at Orange.

Suwanosejima – Ryukyu Islands (Japan) : JMA reported that 28 explosions at Suwanosejima’s Ontake Crater produced eruption plumes that rose as high as 2.4 km above the crater rim during 4-11 June. Large volcanic bombs were ejected 500 m from the crater. Ashfall was reported in Toshima village (4 km SSW). Crater incandescence was visible nightly. The Alert Level remained at 2 and the public was warned to stay 1 km away from the crater.

Taal – Luzon (Philippines) : PHIVOLCS reported that unrest at Taal continued during 9-15 June. Sulfur dioxide emissions reached the highest levels ever detected at the volcano, averaging 9,911 tonnes/day on 10 June. Peak measurements coincided with periods of vigorous upwelling at the Main Crater Lake; the upwelling was continuous from 1800 on 9 June to 1000 on 10 June, producing steam plumes that rose 1.5 km and drifted mainly NW. Residents of barangays Banyaga, Bilibinwang, and Subic Ilaya (Municipality of Agoncillo, Batangas Province) reported throat irritations and observed sudden drying or die off of crops, plants, and trees after a period of rain. Averages on the other days were also elevated at 1,725-5,837 tonnes/day, and steam plumes from periods of lake upwelling rose 1-1.5 km and drifted NE, NW, and SW. Low-level background tremor that had begun at 0905 on 8 April continued. During 13-14 June the seismic network recorded 13 periods of volcanic tremor with durations from 1 to 270 minutes. During 14-15 June the network recorded 221 volcanic earthquakes, 29 low-frequency earthquakes, and 192 periods of volcanic tremor with durations from 1 to 135 minutes. PHIVOLCS noted the continuing state of elevated unrest, reminding the public that the Alert Level for Taal remained at 2 (on a scale of 0-5). PHIVOLCS strongly recommended no entry onto the island, and access to the Main Crater, Daang Kastila fissure (along the walking trail), and boating on Taal Lake was strictly prohibited.

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits Tonga.

5.0 earthquake hits New Britain, Papua New Guinea.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 03e (Carlos), located approximately 1340 nm east-southeast of Hilo, Hawaii, is tracking west-southwestward at 07 knots.

Newsbytes:

Mexico – Heavy rainfall brought by an area of ​​low pressure has caused flooding and landslides in the state of Oaxaca, southern Mexico . Thunderstorms and lightning were also reported and 2 people died in lightning strikes in Ocotlán de Morelos municipality. Mexico’s National Meteorological Service reported that over 440 mm of rain fell in Jacatepec, Oaxaca in a 48 hour period to 16 June 2021. Several rivers have broken their banks, including the Mala river in the municipality of San Juan Guichicovi, and the Los Perros river in the city of Ixtepec. Levels of the the Los Perros river jumped over 3 meters in the space of a few hours, reaching 6.8 meters on 16 June, well above the danger mark of 3.5 meters. At least 50 families have evacuated their homes as a result. Landslide and flooding has blocked numerous roads in the state. Local media reported that as many as 30 communities were cut off in different areas of the state.

Nepal Update – Five fatalities have now been confirmed, with a further 19 people reported missing after heavy monsoon rainfall in Nepal triggered floods and landslides. Disaster authorities in Nepal have reported over 70 incidents of rain damage, flooding and landslides since 15 June 2021. As many as 26 of Nepal’s 77 districts have been affected.

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Wildlife

Sea of Spider Silk

Many residents of Victoria, Australia, evacuated their homes to avoid disastrous floods last week — and upon their return, they found the land, trees and road signs coated in thick veils of shimmering spider silk.

As the residents of Gippsland evacuated their homes, local arachnids also fled for higher ground. Using a behavior called “ballooning,” spiders clambered atop vegetation and flung fine silk threads into the wind; as the threads caught air, the spiders got plucked from their perches and lifted to safety leaving the remarkable carpet of silk, called gossamer, covering shrubs or fields behind.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

Dengue Fever – Reunion

Health officials in Reunion Island say despite the arrival of the southern winter, the dengue epidemic continues at a high level and above the epidemic peak of previous years. To date, 20,800 confirmed cases, including 12 deaths have been reported.

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Volcanos

Roundup of Global Volcanic Activity – New Activity for the Week 9 June – 15 June 2021

Bagana – Bougainville (Papua New Guinea) : Based on satellite and wind model data, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 14 June an ash plume from Bagana rose to 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted W.

Turrialba – Costa Rica : OVSICORI-UNA reported that an eruption at Turrialba at 1800 on 31 June produced an ash plume that rose 300 m above the crater and drifted SW. Residents in several areas reported volcanic gas odors and rumbling, and minor ashfall was reported in Monte Calas and La Central.

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.9 earthquake hits Seram, Indonesia.

5.5 earthquake hits the mid-Indian ridge.

5.4 earthquake hits northern Qinghai, China.

5.2 earthquake hits southern Sumatra, Indonesia.

5.1 earthquake hits the Kermedec Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits offshore O’Higgins, Chile.

5.0 earthquake hits near the coast of Ecuador.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 03e (Carlos), located approximately 1337 nm east-southeast of Hilo, Hawaii, is tracking westward at 06 knots.

Newsbytes:

Nepal and Bhutan – At least 10 people have died in Bhutan after heavy monsoon rainfall triggered flash flooding in a remote mountain camp in Laya. Meanwhile rain has also triggered flash floods and landslides in parts of nearby Nepal, where officials say several people are reported missing.

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Wildfires

Wildfires – Arizona, USA

The Telegraph Fire continues to flare up south of Globe and has grown to become the sixth-largest wildfire in Arizona history.

After burning through about 20,000 acres overnight and another 16,537 acres during the day, the blaze was measured at 139,615 acres Tuesday evening, moving up three spots on the all-time list. It is the largest fire burning nationally.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

Rift Valley Fever – Madagascar

From April 26 to May 20, 109 total, confirmed and suspected human Rift Valley fever (RVF) cases were reported in four regions of Madagascar (Vatovavy Fitovinany, Haute Matsiatra, Alaotra Mangoro and Analamanga), according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits Mindanao in the Philippines.

5.1 earthquake hits Mindanao in the Philippines.

5.0 earthquake hits the southern Pacific Ocean.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 03e (Carlos), located approximately 1490 nm east-southeast of Hilo, Hawaii, is tracking west-southwestward at 10 knots.

Newsbytes:

Panama – Heavy rain in Panamá has caused floods and landslides in several parts of the country since 12 June 2021. The heavy rain caused rivers to overflow, landslides and flash flooding in urban areas. In 24 hours to 14 June 2021, Panama City recorded 114.5 mm of rain and Pacora in Panamá District recorded 92.5 mm. At least 400 homes have been damaged across Panama, Panamá Oeste and Chiriquí Provinces.

Spain – Rioja reported 54 weather-related incidents in a 3 hour period during the evening of 14 June, mostly in areas between Haro and Logroño. One person was rescued from flood waters in Navarrete. Flooding blocked roads in Briones and Uruñuela.

Guatemala – Three people died in flash floods in Sololá Department, Guatemala, according to disaster authorities in the country. The disaster struck after heavy rainfall caused the Quibá river to overflow in the village of Guineales, municipality of Santa Catarina Ixtahuacán in Sololá department. Three people, including 2 children, were swept away by the force of the flooding. Around 30 houses were severely damaged and 85 people have moved to shelters.

Guyana – The government of Guyana has declared a disaster in the country in response to the flooding that had affected all regions since mid-May 2021. Meanwhile weeks of flooding continues in neighbouring Suriname, where over 10,000 people have been affected.

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Wildfires

High-elevation forests in the Rockies are burning more

Following a devastating wildfire season in 2020, new research shows that high-elevation forests in the Rocky Mountains are burning more now than any time in the past 2,000 years amid extreme, climate change-induced drought.

The study concluded that fire activity in subalpine forests of northern Colorado and southern Wyoming is unprecedented in the last several millennia — a clear signal that the climate crisis is increasing the severity and extent of wildfires in the West.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits the Mona Passage, Dominican Republic.

5.2 earthquake hits the Gulf of Aden.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm 03e (Carlos), located approximately 1395 nm south-southwest of San Diego, is tracking westward at 06 knots.

Newsbytes:

Vietnam – Tropical Storm Koguma made landfall in Thai Binh Province in northern Vietnam early on 13 June 2021. According to disaster authorities in Vietnam, the storm weakened into a tropical depression as it move inland, dumping as much as 30cm of rain and flooding wide areas of farmland. Two fishermen were reported missing at sea off the coast of Thai Binh Province. As of 13 June, damage from flooding was mostly limited to farmland and crops. VDMA said a total of 19,733 hectares of farmland was flooded, including 15,400 hectares in Ha Tinh Province and 3,463 hectares in Nghe An Province. Severe flooding was also reported in several provinces of neighbouring Laos from 13 June, 2021.

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Wildfires

Wildfires – Siberia

Russian emergency workers fought wildfires burning Sunday on more than 550 square kilometers (212 square miles) of territory mostly in Siberia and the Far East.

The state agency responsible for fighting forest fires, Avialesookhrana, said the largest blaze was in the far northeast’s Sakha Republic, where 34,000 hectares (74,000 acres) were on fire. The Irkutsk region in Siberia had fires encompassing about 20,000 hectares (49,500 acres), the agency said.

There were no immediate reports of deaths or residential damage in the sparsely populated regions.

Wildfires – Canada

Alberta has deployed 81 firefighters to help battle wildfires in northern Ontario. There are 31 active fires in the province’s northwest region, which is where the Alberta firefighters have been deployed, seven of which are not under control. One fire, which has grown to 2,410 hectares, is located just 45 kilometres from the town of Nipigon.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

Typhoid – DR Congo

Health authorities in the DRC have released the followung statement: “Since the start of this quarter, this disease, which has taken on an epidemic character, has killed 17 out of more than 360 cases recorded in the health zone of Popokabaka in the territory that bears the same name.”

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.4 earthquake hits Minahasa, Sulawesi, Indonesia.

5.1 earthquake hits Guatemala.

5.1 earthquake hits southern Peru.

5.1 earthquake hits the Solomon Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits the Ceram Sea. Indonesia.

5.0 earthquake hits the South Sandwich Islands.

5.0 earthquake hits the Chagos Archipelago.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 05w (Koguma), located approximately 45 nm southeast of Hanoi, Vietnam, is tracking northwestward at 09 knots.

In the Eastern Pacific Ocean: Tropical storm 03e (Carlos), located approximately 1322 nm south-southwest of San Diego, is tracking westward at 08 knots.

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Global Warming

Satellite Observations Show Marine Clouds Amplify Global Warming

A new analysis of satellite cloud observations finds that global warming causes low-level clouds over the oceans to decrease, leading to further warming.

These clouds, such as the stratocumulus clouds responsible for the often gloomy conditions, are widespread over the global oceans and strongly cool the planet by shading the surface from sunlight. The new study finds that, overall, this cooling effect will be modestly reduced as the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere increases. The warming initially caused by increasing CO2 gets an extra push from reductions in clouds — an amplifying feedback.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.3 earthquake hits Taiwan.

5.2 earthquake hits offshore Valparaiso, Chile.

5.1 earthquake its Sucre, Venezuela.

5.0 earthquake hits northern Sumatra, Indonesia.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

In the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Tropical depression 05w (five), located approximately 203 nm southeast of Hanoi, Vietnam, is tracking northwestward at 14 knots.

Newsbytes:

Brazil – The government of the state of Roraima in northern Brazil has declared an emergency situation due to ongoing heavy rainfall and rising rivers. Long-term heavy rainfall in Roraima, particularly in northern areas, along with high levels of rivers in the Amazon basin upstream, have caused rivers to rise above flood stage in the state. As of 11 June, 2021, the Branco river (Rio Branco) at Boa Vista stood at 8.53 metres, with flood stage at 8.5 metres. Likewise the Branco is also above flood stage at Caracaraí, standing at 9.46 metres as of 11 June. Flood stage here is 9 metres.

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Wildfires

Wildfires – Arizona, USA

The Telegraph Fire near Superior started June 4 and has grown to burn 85,901, according to fire officials. It is 40% contained.

Nearby, the Mescal Fire southeast of Globe has burned more than 72,250 acres and firefighters reached a 36% containment.

The Slate Fire, located 23 miles northwest of Flagstaff along U.S. 180, has burned 4,900 acres of land. The fire, which started on Monday, has not yet been contained.

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Disease

Covid-19

The countries with the 10 greatest number of Covid-19 cases:

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Earthquakes

Magnitude 5+ Earthquakes – Global

5.5 earthquake hits the Molucca Sea.

5.4 earthquake hits off the coast of Costa Rica.

5.1 earthquake hits Yunnan, China.

5.1 earthquake hits eastern New Guinea, Papua New Guinea.

Two 5.0 earthquakes hit Taiwan.

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Storms and Floods

Tropical Storms – Roundup of Tropical Storms:

There are no current tropical storms.

Newsbytes:

Brazil – Torrential rain caused flooding and landslides in the state of Santa Catarina in southern Brazil from 08 June 2021. The municipality and city of Canelinha was one of the hardest hit, where dozens of homes were flooded and 146 people evacuated to temporary shelter. In total at least 16 municipalities have reported incidents of flooding and severe weather impacts, with further heavy rain fall forecast.

India – The Southwest Monsoon arrived in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, with dramatic effect on 09 June, 2021. More than 200mm of rain falling in less than 12 hours. Roads were inundated with flood water up to 50cm deep, causing widespread traffic disruption. Train services were also interrupted. building collapsed in Malvani, Malad West. At least 11 people have died in the incident, with 17 injured and 15 rescued. More are feared buried in the rubble and firefighters are conducting rescue operations. Three other buildings nearby are in “dangerous condition” and the residents have been evacuated.

Australia – Severe weather including heavy rain and strong winds affected the state of Victoria, Australia, from 09 June 2021. Wind gusts of over 100 km/h were reported. More than 200mm of rain fell in 24 hours in several locations. Police said one person died in a vehicle caught in flood water. The heavy rainfall caused rivers to rise, in particular the Traralgon Creek in Traralgon where State Emergency Services (SES) issued an evacuation notice for more than 200 homes.

Turkey – Flash floods swamped areas around the city of Ankara, Turkey, on 09 June 2021. Worst affected was the metropolitan district of Mamak, Ankara Province. Media reported dozens of buildings and roads damaged.

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Global Warming

New CO2 Record

The concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has reached a level 50% higher than at the dawn of the industrial age.

The U.S. agency NOAA says the average CO2 level during May was 419.13 parts per million (ppm). That’s 1.82 ppm higher than last May. The level is also 120 ppm higher than back when the greenhouse gas was relatively stable without the impact of the polluting fuels that have driven the global economy since the 1700s.

“We are adding roughly 40 billion metric tons of CO2 pollution to the atmosphere per year,” said Pieter Tans of NOAA’s Global Monitoring Laboratory. “That is a mountain of carbon that we dig up out of the Earth, burn and release into the atmosphere as CO2 — year after year.”

Tropical Mediterranean

Global heating is said to be turning the Mediterranean into a tropical sea, with native species driven out by some of the 1,000 more exotic ones that have adapted to the warmer waters.

The Italian branch of the World Wildlife Fund says the trend will have damaging consequences for fisheries, tourism and what seafood is on the menu.

Maritime director of the branch Giulia Prato said in a report: “Climate change is not a problem of the future; it is a reality that scientists, fishermen, divers, coastal communities and tourists are already experiencing today.”

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Wildlife

Secret population of blue whales discovered in Indian Ocean

Scientists have discovered an entirely new population of pygmy blue whales in the Indian Ocean, near the Chagos Islands which have managed to evade detection for decades despite their enormous size.

Researchers uncovered the secretive cetaceans by analyzing acoustic data collected by an underwater nuclear bomb detection array, which revealed a unique song scientists had never heard before.

Hero Retires

A giant African pouched rat named Magawa is retiring after five years of detecting 71 landmines and 38 other unexploded ordnance. The Belgian charity APOPO says Magawa is “beginning to slow down” after a very successful assignment in Cambodia.

The organization trains the rodents in their native Tanzania to detect the chemicals in explosives. The rats are light enough to scurry across minefields without detonating the explosives, doing in just 30 minutes what a metal detector would accomplish in four days.

APOPO gave Magawa a hero’s medal and says he will retire eating his favorite treats of bananas and peanuts.

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