Lauran O'Toole

Flash floods and severe thunderstorms struck Chiavari and wider Liguria on Italy’s northwest coast, where 126mm of rain fell and roads became inundated. Weather warnings were escalated from yellow to orange and red, while Genoa recorded 20,000 lightning strikes. The storms closed the Aurelia motorway, prompted evacuations at a campsite in Lombardy and elsewhere in northern Italy, and caused widespread power outages, including in Pistoia.

Ethel Caterham, the world’s oldest living person, is celebrating her 117th birthday with family and friends at her care home in Lightwater, Surrey. She described the past year as one of many firsts, including meeting King Charles III and holding his hand. Born in Hampshire in 1909, Caterham worked as an au pair in India, lived with her husband in several locations including Gibraltar and Hong Kong, established a nursery school, raised two daughters, drove until age 97, played contract bridge and survived COVID-19 at 110. She became the world’s oldest living person in April 2025 after the death of Inah Canabarro Lucas; Jeanne Calment remains the oldest person ever recorded at 122 years and 164 days.

More than 100 people were killed when an artisanal gold mine collapsed in Zamboye village in the Central African Republic’s Nana-Mambéré prefecture, near the Cameroon border. Rescue teams are searching for people believed to remain trapped, but the death toll is expected to rise. The miners included citizens of both the Central African Republic and Cameroon, with at least three Cameroonian victims identified. Authorities are investigating the cause of the collapse and whether criminal liability lies with those operating the site.

Former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called for a legal and safe mechanism to resume democratic elections during the continuing war, arguing that democracy should not be held hostage by Russia. His comments directly challenge President Volodymyr Zelensky’s position that elections should wait until a ceasefire and security guarantees are secured. Fedorov’s dismissal, reportedly linked to tensions with army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, has sparked protests, while Ukraine’s parliament has confirmed Yevhen Khmara as acting defence minister. Analysts question whether elections can safely take place amid ongoing Russian missile and drone attacks and martial law.

Mount Etna continued intense explosive activity from its Voragine crater, releasing ash over Sicily and disrupting air travel at Catania Airport. Incoming flights were restricted to 10 aircraft per hour, with numerous delays, cancellations and diversions, although departures remained unrestricted. The eruption also prompted a yellow alert and a 200-metre exclusion zone around lava flows. A 29-year-old American tourist who entered a restricted area was struck by volcanic lightning during a thunderstorm and later died in hospital.

West Yorkshire Police have been granted more time to question a 55-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder and of being the owner of a dangerously out-of-control dog. A 55-year-old man died in hospital after reportedly being bitten by a German shepherd during an altercation on a footpath off Blacker Lane in Wakefield. Police have identified two people who stopped to help, seized the dog, and urged witnesses to avoid online speculation while the investigation continues.

The Met Office forecasts rain and thunderstorms across 27 UK areas on Tuesday as temperatures become cooler after weeks of extreme heat. Northern England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales, Devon and Cornwall are expected to see the heaviest or most widespread rainfall, while much of southeast England, London, the Midlands and East Anglia are likely to remain dry. A yellow heat health alert remains in place until 9am for London, the South East and the South West.

A large fire broke out at an industrial building on Chew Valley Road in Greenfield, Saddleworth, shortly before 7:45am on August 16, 2026. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service deployed 10 fire engines and specialist appliances, advised residents to keep windows and doors closed, and urged people to avoid the area. Toxic fumes prompted the precautionary evacuation of about 45 homes, while nearby Tesco temporarily closed before reopening later in the day. The cause of the fire remained unknown. The live coverage also reported separate wildfire emergencies in South Wales and warned of scams targeting people seeking to donate to fire victims.

Hurricane Lala brought torrential rain and winds of up to 80 mph to Hawaii, leaving about 89,000 homes without power, damaging buildings, closing roads and causing at least one weather-related death. Nearly 20 buildings lost their roofs on the Big Island, three hospitals switched to backup generators, and widespread flight cancellations disrupted travel. Officials warned of life-threatening flooding, mudslides and further damaging weather across the islands, while the storm was expected to weaken and move northwest.

A shooting during a concert at Charles Young Park in Lexington, Kentucky, left one person dead and four others injured, including children aged four and 14. Police responded shortly before 7 p.m.; the injured were hospitalized, no arrests had been announced, and authorities said there was no continuing threat to the public. Governor Andy Beshear addressed the incident at a nearby Kentucky Democratic Party dinner, while community activist Divine Carama described witnessing the violence at the East End Day event.

A magnitude 5 earthquake struck near Alhendín in the Granada metropolitan area shortly after 1am, with dozens of tremors recorded across the region. Falling debris damaged buildings, cars and roads, while residents fled homes and hotels in fear. More than 300 calls were reportedly made to emergency services, but no deaths or serious injuries were immediately reported. Andalusian authorities activated a level-one emergency plan, urged residents to remain calm and warned of possible aftershocks and falling architectural elements. Tremors were also felt in Málaga, Seville, Morocco and Algeria, while experts described Granada as one of the Iberian Peninsula’s areas at highest seismic risk.

Met Office forecasts heavy rain across 21 areas of northern England, Scotland and Northern Ireland on Monday, while Wales and southern England are expected to remain dry, warm and humid. Rain is expected to spread eastward and intensify through the day, affecting areas including the Scottish Highlands, Scottish Borders, Cumbria, Lancashire, Cheshire and several Northern Irish counties. The forecast comes amid unusually dry conditions, with much of England and all of Wales experiencing drought.

Community Transport for Nottingham (CT4N), which has operated in the East Midlands for almost 50 years, is taking steps to cease trading immediately and enter administration after facing significant financial difficulties despite an approved Company Voluntary Arrangement and efforts to stabilize the business. Most of its 76 employees are being made redundant. Nottingham City Transport will replace CT4N’s service 18 from August 17, expanding to the full 18, 18A, 18B and 18X timetable from September 1, while authorities and other operators assess replacement options for the remaining affected services across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward said the loss of services would significantly affect communities and indicated that EMCCA would help affected workers access employment and skills programs.

A major incident was declared after a fire broke out at a bathroom showroom on Selbourne Road in Luton, prompting the deployment of 10 fire engines and three aerial platforms. Nearby properties were evacuated, residents were told to keep doors and windows closed because of heavy smoke, and road closures remained in place. Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service later said the blaze had been contained, all people were accounted for, and the major incident had been stood down, although crews continued working at the scene. The cause was not yet known and a full investigation was due after the fire was extinguished. The incident occurred amid multiple fires, heat alerts and drought conditions across England and Wales.

Rain is forecast across parts of the UK on Sunday, bringing a change after high temperatures and unusually dry conditions in August. Early rainfall is expected in north Wales, northern England and much of Scotland, with later showers in Dorset and Norfolk. The Met Office says rain will largely clear by late morning, while another front could bring further rain to northern areas on Monday and Tuesday.

A Southern Railway train derailed near Lewes railway station in East Sussex, leaving two people seriously injured and nine with less serious injuries. Emergency services treated passengers at the scene, while some were taken to hospital and others moved to a community centre. The cause of the derailment remained unclear, and rail services between Brighton, Lewes, Haywards Heath, Seaford and Eastbourne were suspended for the rest of the day. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander and Lewes MP James MacCleary said they were assisting passengers and monitoring the developing incident.

A major fire broke out in an industrial unit on Brunel Way near Slough railway station on August 12, 2026. Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service and London Fire Brigade attended, while residents were advised to avoid the area and keep doors and windows closed. The fire blocked the railway between Slough and Windsor & Eton Central, causing cancellations and disruption that was initially expected to last until 6:30pm and later until 8pm. GWR offered passengers alternative local bus routes and flexible ticket arrangements. The railway lines eventually reopened, although disruption continued until around 8pm.

A crash and resulting spillage on the M6 northbound between Junctions 18 and 19 in Cheshire caused two of four lanes to close, with traffic at a standstill and congestion reaching up to six miles. National Highways reported delays of up to 60 minutes before recovery work and spillage treatment reduced delays to around 30 minutes. The live coverage ended while recovery operations were still ongoing.

The UK is on course to record its hottest summer, with only near-average conditions needed for the remainder of August to surpass the 2025 record. A new heatwave could bring temperatures of 37–38°C to parts of England, while drought affects nearly three quarters of England and all of Wales following an exceptionally dry July and early August. Southern Water has applied for a rare non-essential water-use ban covering parts of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, potentially affecting 165,000 people, with Environment Secretary Angela Eagle expected to decide on the request. The Met Office has also issued amber extreme-heat warnings and health alerts across parts of England.

The Met Office has warned that heat-sensitive systems and equipment could fail, potentially causing power cuts across 37 areas of the UK during an amber extreme heat warning on Thursday. Temperatures could reach 38C, particularly across southern and eastern England and the Midlands, with risks including heat exhaustion, dehydration and other heat-related illnesses. The UK Health Security Agency has issued amber heat-health alerts across almost all of England, while the public is advised to avoid the strongest midday sun, stay hydrated and keep homes cool.

The UK will experience a partial solar eclipse on August 12, 2026, lasting from approximately 6:17pm to 8pm, with peak coverage ranging from about 88% to 96% depending on location. Devon and Cornwall are expected to have the best views, while Scotland and other parts of the UK will see slightly lower coverage. London and Cardiff will reach peak eclipse at around 7:13pm. A total eclipse will be visible in parts of Iceland and Spain, while the article warns viewers never to look directly at the Sun and recommends certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses or specialist solar filters.

The UK will experience a partial solar eclipse on August 12, 2026, lasting from approximately 6:17pm to 8pm, with peak coverage ranging from about 88% to 96%. Devon and Cornwall are expected to have the best views, while London, Cardiff, Belfast and major UK cities will see the eclipse at slightly different times and coverage levels. Parts of Europe will experience a total eclipse. Viewers are warned not to look directly at the Sun and to use certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses or suitable solar filters.

A heatwave is expected to bring temperatures of up to 38C to parts of East Anglia, southeast England and the Midlands, with the Met Office issuing amber extreme heat alerts for 37 areas. Within just over a week, heavy rain is forecast across 27 areas, particularly in northern and western parts of the UK, while temperatures could fall to as low as 5C in the Scottish Highlands. London and southwest England are expected to see less rain and milder overnight temperatures.

London-based barbecue restaurant group Bodean’s has closed its three remaining restaurants in Soho, Tower Hill and Camden after more than 20 years in business. The company’s website says it is currently closed, apologizes to customers and expresses hope of welcoming them back, without explaining whether the shutdown is temporary or permanent. Founded by Andre Blais in 2002, Bodean’s once operated eight London locations and was known for Kansas City-style smoked meats, bourbon and beer. The closure follows leadership changes involving chef director Richard Turner and managing director Gemma Hampton-Stone. The news comes shortly after Bar + Block announced the permanent closure of all 20 of its UK and Northern Ireland sites.

A partial solar eclipse is expected to be visible across the UK on Wednesday, with the Moon covering about 90% to 96% of the Sun at peak coverage. Met Office maps indicate that cloud could obscure the event in much of Scotland and North Wales, while southern and eastern England—especially the South West—are forecast to have clearer skies. The eclipse will begin shortly after 6pm, with timings varying by location; in London it is expected to run from about 6:17pm to 8:06pm, reaching maximum coverage around 7:12pm. Viewers will need an unobstructed western horizon because the Sun will be low in the sky.

A sub-Saharan migrant reportedly died after attempting to paraglide from the mountains near Benzú into Ceuta, apparently falling into the sea. The incident followed a mass influx in which tens of thousands of migrants entered the Spanish enclave, prompting heightened concern over further crossings. Ceuta President Juan Jesús Vivas said thousands of migrants may still be in the territory and criticized the Spanish government's response as late and under-resourced, while many others had been returned to Morocco.

Around 50 firefighters tackled an ongoing blaze at Middlewick Ranges off Mersea Road in Colchester, with residents urged to avoid the area and keep doors and windows closed because of heavy smoke. Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said the fire had been surrounded and crews were applying water to bring it under control, supported by local farmers supplying water bowsers. The live blog also reported on a separate major wildfire at Dunwich Heath in Suffolk, where roads and footpaths remained closed and the National Trust said the coastal heathland landscape had been left largely unrecognisable, with significant potential impacts on wildlife and RSPB Minsmere.

Sainsbury’s has agreed to sell Argos to newly formed Swift Partners for at least £120 million, far below the £1.4 billion it paid for the retailer in 2016. The deal includes Argos’s standalone and in-store locations, logistics network, Habitat brand, sourcing offices, distribution centre, pet insurance and warranty operations. About 1,400 Argos employees will transfer to Swift, while stores, collection points and Nectar benefits are expected to continue operating as normal. Sainsbury’s says the sale will allow it to concentrate on food and grocery operations, with completion expected in February and £70 million payable upfront.

Seven areas of central, eastern and southern England have officially entered drought conditions after July rainfall fell to 7% of expected levels, and to just 1% in southern England. North Wales and the Upper Severn river basin have also entered drought conditions. The declarations come amid the UK’s fourth heatwave of the year, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C in southeast England and heat health alerts issued across several regions. Cooler, wetter conditions are forecast for much of the country later in the week, although southeastern England is expected to remain hot for longer.

Passenger Ljubisa Karovic says he was partially pulled through a shattered window on Ryanair flight FR1879 while it was climbing from Thessaloniki to Memmingen. He reportedly lost consciousness several times and suffered facial and hand burns, neck pain and other injuries. His wife says fellow passengers helped bring him back inside, while Karovic claims Ryanair contacted only his son about rebooking and did not reach out to him directly. The aircraft made an emergency landing in Thessaloniki; Ryanair executive Neil Sorahan said the customer-care team had contacted the family and praised the cabin crew and pilots.

A magnitude 3.7 earthquake struck near Granada, Spain, at 3:46pm local time, with the epicentre identified near Ogíjares at a depth of about six kilometres. Residents reported intense shaking, loud explosive noises and moving objects, while around 50 calls were made to Andalucía’s emergency service. A magnitude 1.7 aftershock was later felt in Armilla, and a separate smaller quake occurred near Loja. The coverage explains that Granada is particularly earthquake-prone because it lies on several active fault lines.

Four passengers—a baby girl, two women aged 18 and 30, and a 36-year-old man—died after a red Hyundai carrying five people left the A38 near Derby and crashed into trees. The 33-year-old driver, who suffered serious injuries, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. All those involved were from Leeds, and Derbyshire Police are seeking witnesses and dashcam footage.

Abdul Ballout, a 21-year-old German citizen of Lebanese background, was reportedly found by police in a garden complex in Berlin’s Spandau district after allegedly driving a rented van into people near the Tiergarten and attacking others with a bladed weapon. Police said Ballout moved toward officers with a stabbing weapon and was shot during the ensuing operation; he later died despite resuscitation efforts. The attack left one woman dead and at least 29 people injured. German authorities described it as an alleged Islamist terrorist attack, citing Ballout’s criminal history, radicalisation, previous Islamic State propaganda activity and reported desire to join ISIS.

Police arrested an individual after three suspicious packages were found at locations across Reading town centre, including outside The Botanist, McDonald’s and The Hope Tap Wetherspoon. Bomb disposal experts safely removed the objects, affected areas were cordoned off and later reopened, and Thames Valley Police said the incidents may be linked. Officers continued their investigation and increased patrols to reassure residents.

The UK’s newly introduced Powerball draw offered a £322 million jackpot, with tickets costing £4 and draws held three times weekly. Players select five numbers from 1 to 69 and one Powerball number from 1 to 26. The winning numbers for the July 25 draw were 47, 3, 36, 4 and 24, with Powerball 17; the jackpot would roll over if no player matched all six numbers.

The July 25 National Lottery draw offered a £3.6 million Lotto jackpot. The winning Lotto numbers were 36, 55, 6, 29, 2 and 59, with bonus ball 50 in one round, and 49, 22, 9, 53, 26 and 56, with bonus ball 34 in the other. The Thunderball numbers were 15, 17, 23, 13 and 21, with Thunderball 14. The draw is closed, and the next Lotto draw will take place on Wednesday.

Spain recorded its first wildfire death after a man was found in a car in a ravine near Manises, Valencia. Fires across Spain and France forced about 270,000 people to flee, with nearly 60,000 evacuated from Bordeaux’s western suburbs and authorities considering evacuating Bordeaux itself. Three fires west of Madrid merged into a blaze that officials said was beyond firefighters’ capacity to contain directly. France mobilised 1,500 personnel and deployed an Airbus A400M aircraft, while several European countries provided additional support.

More than 30 vehicles and caravans have returned to Ludwell Valley Park in Exeter, only weeks after a previous unauthorised encampment left. Residents have raised concerns about repeated access, alleged damage to the park, public safety and the lack of a long-term solution. Measures including concrete blocks and a metal gate failed to prevent entry, while an earlier camp reportedly left large amounts of rubbish. Exeter City Council owns the park, which is managed by Devon Wildlife Trust.

Two teenage boys have been further arrested on suspicion of murdering a 17-year-old boy who died from multiple stab wounds after reports of disorder and teenagers carrying large knives at Kingsway Recreation Ground in Luton. One suspect is in hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Bedfordshire Police have increased high-visibility patrols and appealed for information, while urging the public not to share distressing footage or images.

Tesco is trialling a 6ft 5in autonomous Tally robot that uses AI and sensors to scan shelves, detect stock gaps, identify pricing and placement errors, and send prioritised reports to staff. The pilot, first observed by industry expert Toby Pickard, marks Tesco’s initial use of autonomous shelf‑scanning technology and the second such trial by a major UK supermarket, following Morrisons. The system is designed to improve inventory accuracy, increase product availability, and free staff to focus on customer service. Morrisons has also begun testing AI‑powered shopping trolleys equipped with screens, sensors and automated product identification.

Zelensky warns that Putin may attempt further invasions and escalate the conflict if Russia fails to achieve its goals in Ukraine. He says Russia shows no genuine interest in a ceasefire and reports heavy Russian troop losses and stalled advances. Ukraine continues drone strikes deep into Russia, contributing to fuel shortages and worsening economic conditions for Russian citizens.

The EuroMillions draw offered a £32 million jackpot, with the winning numbers announced alongside the corresponding Thunderball results. Guidance was provided for players on checking tickets and claiming prizes, and updates covered draw timing, entry deadlines, and where to watch the live results.

Donald Trump warned that Iran made a “big mistake” by initiating attacks amid escalating US–Iran tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. He stated that the US military had severely degraded Iran’s capabilities and confirmed continued American airstrikes on Iranian targets after a broken ceasefire. Iran reported its own retaliatory strikes on US facilities in Bahrain and Jordan. Trump withdrew a proposed 20% charge on Gulf shipping, instead announcing a blockade on vessels connected to Iranian ports or cargo, citing Iran’s leadership as driving the country toward destruction.

Tesco will close its Express stores in England at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday if the national team reaches the World Cup final, allowing staff to be home before the 8 p.m. kickoff. Larger stores are already closed on Sundays, while online orders and Whoosh deliveries will continue as normal. Stores in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will follow regular hours. England faces Argentina in the semi-final, with the final set for the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Hot weather across England and Wales is set to intensify midweek, with temperatures reaching up to 32C as high pressure maintains largely dry and sunny conditions. The Met Office expects only sporadic showers or isolated thunderstorms in southern England on Wednesday and Thursday, with most areas remaining rain‑free. High pressure rebuilding over the weekend will further reduce shower risk and keep conditions settled and warm. Heat health alerts have been issued for several English regions as elevated temperatures pose risks to vulnerable groups. Fire crews continue to battle wildfires in England and Wales, including a major incident in Conwy, where dry and windy conditions are sustaining extreme fire risk.

A warning from Czech President Petr Pavel suggests Russia may announce a major mobilisation after its September parliamentary elections, as mounting Ukrainian strikes, high Russian casualty rates and worsening domestic economic conditions increase pressure on Vladimir Putin. Pavel argues that intensified Ukrainian actions could push Moscow toward negotiations within a narrowing window for peace talks.

A prison administrative worker, Courtney Harrison, was sentenced to 21 months in prison for accessing and sharing confidential prisoner records, including those of Lucy Letby, Harold Shipman, Rose West and others. The court determined she breached the trust placed in prison staff, particularly by sending information about inmate George Tunney, which was later found in his cell. Although no direct harm resulted, the judge described her actions as a serious violation, emphasising the need for accountability and deterrence.

Heat-driven shutdowns were implemented at France’s Golfech nuclear plant as river temperatures approached the legal limit, following earlier heatwave-related reactor suspensions at other sites. The shutdown coincided with record-high June temperatures across Western Europe and unusually warm global ocean conditions. Copernicus climate data highlighted intensifying heatwaves and rising risks to people and infrastructure.

Cambridge Water introduced its first hosepipe ban since 1995 as hot, dry weather and record water demand place pressure on supplies across Cambridgeshire. The temporary restrictions, effective from July 17, affect around 350,000 households, with fines up to £1,000 for violations. The company cites exceptionally low rainfall, rising temperatures, and a sharp increase in daily water usage as key drivers, aiming to protect local water resources and chalk streams.

Two players each won £1 million in Wednesday’s Lotto draw under the new two-round format after matching five numbers plus the bonus. No one claimed the jackpot, raising Saturday’s prize to £6.6 million. The updated format has produced 29 millionaires in under a month. Allwyn’s Andy Carter highlighted both the winnings and the funds raised for UK community projects. HotPicks and Thunderball produced no top‑tier winners.

UK airports have lowered the minimum age for eGate use to eight, allowing around 1.5 million more children to pass through border checks more quickly provided they meet height requirements and travel with an adult. The change, also applicable in Brussels and Paris for UK return checks, aims to ease summer travel pressure and free Border Force staff for security tasks. Ministers highlight benefits for families and tourism, while travellers heading to Europe are reminded of the EU’s recently implemented Entry/Exit System requiring biometric data for UK passport holders.

Provides live updates on the National Lottery’s July 8 draws, highlighting the £5 million Lotto jackpot, ticket cut‑off times, and the schedule for the Thunderball draw. Includes context on previous record wins and introduces the host guiding the coverage.

Emergency crews responded to a reported gas explosion at the AC Marriott hotel in Belfast, where two staff members were injured and taken to Royal Victoria Hospital. Firefighters, paramedics and police attended the scene, and the hotel confirmed the incident occurred in the kitchen and that an investigation is underway.

Princess Kate congratulated British tennis player Arthur Fery on social media after he became the first British wildcard to reach the Wimbledon Gentlemen’s Singles semi‑finals in the Open Era. Fery’s victory over Flavio Cobolli earned widespread support, including from Queen Camilla, who attended the match. Fery expressed disbelief at his achievement and said he would continue his current approach as he prepares to face Alexander Zverev. His father highlighted Fery’s strong connection to Great Britain and pride in representing the country.

A woman and two children were discovered dead inside a home in Great Denham, prompting a murder investigation led by the regional major crime unit. Police identified a suspect known to the victims who is believed to have left the country. Authorities increased local patrols and appealed for information while stressing that there is no wider risk to the public.

A 20‑year‑old from Salford is in a coma after suffering severe head injuries in a quad bike crash during a holiday in Zante. He was transferred from the island to a hospital in Athens as his condition worsened, and attempts to wake him resulted in seizures. His family has traveled to Greece and is awaiting MRI results while they try to confirm whether his travel insurance is valid. Local friends and community members have begun fundraising to help cover medical costs.

Large spherical objects washed up on Forrest Beach in Queensland, prompting fire crews to establish a 50‑metre exclusion zone and advise the public not to touch them. Scientific teams secured the debris, which the Australian Space Agency said appears to be pressure vessels from a recently re‑entered foreign rocket. Authorities continue working with international partners to confirm the launch source as locals express curiosity about the unusual discovery.

A convicted sex offender, Mansoor Ahmed, was jailed for six months after threatening to stab and throw acid at British Transport Police officers during a 14‑minute phone call. He launched abusive and violent threats in response to his crimes and photo being made public, prompting a police manhunt that led to his arrest two days later. Ahmed admitted multiple offences including threatening communications, possession of cannabis and a public order offence. Police highlighted his history of previous convictions and the need to apprehend him quickly to protect officers and the public.

A 13-year-old boy, Coby Keogh, died in hospital following a house fire in Blackpool that also left 19-year-old Joey Gregory in serious condition. Police believe the blaze was likely caused by an e-bike and say there is no evidence of third-party involvement. Joey’s mother shared an emotional message expressing hope for her son’s recovery. An investigation continues between police and fire services, and authorities are appealing for information.

A third UK heatwave has begun in southeast England with temperatures forecast to peak between 33C and 35C later in the week. The Met Office says conditions will be less intense than June’s heatwave due to lower humidity, making nights more comfortable. Heat will intensify and spread north mid‑week, bringing higher temperatures to eastern Scotland and northern England, while the northwest remains cooler with rain. Amber heat health alerts have been issued for several English regions from July 9 to 12. Southeastern England is already officially in a heatwave after exceeding 28C for three consecutive days.

Forecasts indicate a new heatwave will raise temperatures to around 30–31C across ten areas in southern and eastern England on Monday, following record-breaking June heat. Meteorologists expect lower humidity and milder conditions compared with the previous extreme, while northern England and Scotland will remain significantly cooler. The temperature contrast is attributed to high pressure building near the Azores, bringing hotter conditions to the south and unsettled weather to Scotland.

Dubai International Airport will close permanently in 2035 as operations transition to the expanding Al Maktoum International Airport, which is undergoing a £28 billion development to become the world’s largest air hub with a capacity of up to 260 million passengers annually. Officials cite proximity of the two airports and the end of DXB’s operational lifespan as key reasons for consolidation. All services, including those of Emirates and flydubai, will move to the new facility in a phased relocation beginning around 2032.

A school teacher, Jamie Varley, received a whole-life prison sentence for murdering his adopted 13‑month‑old son, Preston Davey, following months of severe physical and sexual abuse. His partner, John McGowan‑Fazakerley, was sentenced to 25 years for allowing and participating in the abuse. Evidence included photos and videos documenting the child’s injuries and distress. A post‑mortem revealed around 40 non‑accidental injuries. Lancashire Police described the case as one of extreme cruelty that shocked investigators and the public.

Forecast models suggest the UK could experience its hottest day on record on July 17, with predicted temperatures reaching 41C. Recent heatwaves have already broken multiple June temperature records, and maps indicate Yorkshire, the Midlands and parts of southern England could see extreme heat. Wales and parts of Scotland are also expected to experience unusually high temperatures, though less severe. The Met Office long‑range forecast highlights dominant high‑pressure conditions bringing warm, dry weather across much of the UK through mid‑July.

NASA’s X‑59 experimental aircraft surpassed Mach 1.4 in June test flights, achieving supersonic speeds while avoiding the traditional sonic boom through advanced aerodynamic design. These developments advance the agency’s goal of enabling quiet supersonic travel, potentially reducing flight times between major cities such as London and New York to under four hours. Ongoing tests will gather public feedback as NASA works toward reshaping future commercial aviation.