https://www.sott.net/category/4-Earth-Changes Signs of the Times: The World for People who Think. Featuring independent, unbiased, alternative news and commentary on world events. en-us Original content Copyright 2026 by Signs of the Times/Sott.net. For other content, see our Fair Use Policy at www.sott.net. Wed, 04 Nov 2026 23:04:41 +0000 https://www.sott.net/images/sottlogo_rss.jpg SOTT.net https://www.sott.net https://www.sott.net/article/509295-SOTT-Earth-Changes-Summary-October-2026-Extreme-Weather-Planetary-Upheaval-Meteor-Fireballs October gave the Sun one more burst before it settled back down. Active region AR4549 fired an M1.4 flare on the 6th, then an M6.7 on the 8th, the strongest of the month, which threw off a partial halo CME. A powerful coronal mass ejection hit Earth on the 10th and drove the geomagnetic field to G3, lighting up skies over the UK and northern Europe. The large sunspot region AR4551 managed only an M1.6 on the 19th, and a coronal hole stream pushed conditions to G1 late on the 21st. After that, the Sun went quiet... at least for now. While the Sun eased off, the Pacific kept discharging. NOAA's Climate Prediction Center reported on October 8 that sea surface temperature anomalies had topped +4.0°C in parts of the eastern equatorial Pacific. CPC now puts an 83 percent chance on October-December exceeding every El Niño on record since 1950, and the International Research Institute's mid-October outlook gives El Niño a 100 percent probability from October-December through March-May... https://www.sott.net/article/509295-SOTT-Earth-Changes-Summary-October-2026-Extreme-Weather-Planetary-Upheaval-Meteor-Fireballs Wed, 04 Nov 2026 23:03:15 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509287-Freezing-France-November-opens-snowy-across-Europe-Siberian-snowpack-surges-past-5-feet-Global-grain-output-up-257-Cold-Pacific-PDO-tempers-strong-El-Nino Freezing France Widespread frost has swept France. On Nov 2, Arbent fell to -4.9C (23.2F), breaking its old Nov 2 record of -4.3C (24.3F), set in 2007, according to local reporting. The freeze persisted into Nov 3, with -4C (24.8F) reported at Die, -2C (28.4F) at Montluçon, -1C (30.2F) at Villefranche-de-Rouergue and −0.5C (31.1F) at Dax. Auch recorded its first frost of the season at -0.6C (30.9F), almost two weeks ahead of schedule. Further north, Nevers has now registered six consecutive freezing nights. An easterly to northeasterly airflow is maintaining the chill, which is set to persist. After a summer of fire-and-brimstone heat coverage from the MSM, France's early freeze has attracted rather less attention. https://www.sott.net/article/509287-Freezing-France-November-opens-snowy-across-Europe-Siberian-snowpack-surges-past-5-feet-Global-grain-output-up-257-Cold-Pacific-PDO-tempers-strong-El-Nino Wed, 04 Nov 2026 13:08:24 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509285-One-dead-one-missing-in-suspected-grizzly-bear-attack-near-Bella-Coola-British-Columbia The British Columbia Conservation Officer Service says one person is dead and another is missing after a suspected grizzly bear attack in the Bella Coola area. The service says one person was found dead in the Snooka West Trail area on Monday, and a search effort continues for the second person. Family members had reported the pair missing on Sunday. The service says it was called in after evidence at the scene suggested an animal may have been involved, and people are urged to stay away from the trail system "for their own safety" and to allow officers to conduct their work. It says efforts are underway to locate, trap and assess any bears involved. Bella Coola was the site of an attack by a grizzly on a group of about 20 elementary school students and teachers, leaving an adult and three children badly injured last November. The Canadian Press https://www.sott.net/article/509285-One-dead-one-missing-in-suspected-grizzly-bear-attack-near-Bella-Coola-British-Columbia Wed, 04 Nov 2026 10:38:40 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509284-Lightning-strike-kills-3-injures-3-in-the-Philippines Three people were killed and three others injured after lightning struck an open-sided nipa hut in Hacienda Manolo, Barangay DSB, Pontevedra, Negros Occidental, on Oct. 31, 2026. Police said the fatalities were aged 44, 35 and 60 and were residents of San Enrique and Pontevedra. Initial investigation showed that the six victims had just finished harvesting palay, or unmilled rice, and were taking shelter inside the hut when lightning struck. Authorities responded to the incident and rushed the victims to a hospital for medical treatment. The three fatalities were declared dead at the hospital. https://www.sott.net/article/509284-Lightning-strike-kills-3-injures-3-in-the-Philippines Wed, 04 Nov 2026 10:20:39 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509266-Mayon-volcano-in-the-Philippines-belches-1600-meter-ash-column-days-after-earlier-eruption Mayon Volcano in Albay province on Tuesday fired another column of ash, just days after its eruption triggered evacuation of areas near the crater. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said the volcano belched a 1,600-meter plume of ash at 8:22 a.m., which drifted southwest. https://www.sott.net/article/509266-Mayon-volcano-in-the-Philippines-belches-1600-meter-ash-column-days-after-earlier-eruption Tue, 03 Nov 2026 12:52:31 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509265-Giant-waterspout-formed-at-sea-in-Mugla-Turkiye In the Milas district of Muğla, a giant waterspout that formed at sea after heavy rain and a storm approached as far as Ören Beach. The waterspout, which advanced along the coast and reached the open waters off the harbor, caused fearful moments for nearby citizens, and those moments were recorded with cell phone cameras. Following the heavy rain and storm that were effective in the Milas district of Muğla, a giant waterspout formed at sea approached Ören Beach. The waterspout advanced along the coast and reached the harbor, causing moments of fear for the citizens nearby. https://www.sott.net/article/509265-Giant-waterspout-formed-at-sea-in-Mugla-Turkiye Tue, 03 Nov 2026 12:40:17 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509256-Florida-flooding-photos-show-kayaks-in-streets-roads-resembling-rivers-6-INCHES-of-rain-in-just-an-HOUR National Weather Service officials issued urgent warnings for Brevard residents of "extremely dangerous and life-threatening conditions," as flash floodwaters sent water into homes, stalled out cars, flooded roads and left beachside canals swollen and schools closed. The heavy, persistent rains fell across Brevard overnight from Sunday into Monday, Nov. 2, leaving residents rattled from the south of the county to the north. Weather officials continuously extended flood warnings Nov. 2. Several inches of rain came down in some parts of south Brevard, weather officials reported. Multiple vehicles were stranded due to flooding along U.S. 192 in West Melbourne, Florida. https://www.sott.net/article/509256-Florida-flooding-photos-show-kayaks-in-streets-roads-resembling-rivers-6-INCHES-of-rain-in-just-an-HOUR Mon, 02 Nov 2026 19:55:40 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509255-Mandatory-evacuations-in-southwestern-Colorado-as-storms-bring-another-round-of-historic-flooding This is a developing story. Evacuations are underway in several southwestern Colorado counties where another wave of intense storms is expected to bring historic levels of flooding late Sunday through Monday morning, just a week after the last round of high water. The National Weather Service issued a Flood Watch that started at 5 a.m. Sunday morning for much of the Four Corners region, including Durango, Cortez, Ignacio, Silverton and Pagosa Springs. The watch will remain in effect until at least 11 a.m. Monday morning, with one to three inches of rain possible. Parts of the San Juan Mountains above 10,000 feet could see 12 to 18 inches of new snow. The San Luis Valley is under a flood watch beginning Sunday evening and stretching into late Tuesday. https://www.sott.net/article/509255-Mandatory-evacuations-in-southwestern-Colorado-as-storms-bring-another-round-of-historic-flooding Mon, 02 Nov 2026 19:36:34 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509251-Thai-golfer-Aeya-15-dies-after-tournament-lightning-strike Thai junior golfer Aeyavarin "Aeya" Pradubyart, 15, died on November 2, 2026, a day after being struck by lightning during a youth tournament in Chachoengsao. The incident occurred at about 4pm at a golf course on Ongkharak - Bang Nam Priao Road, Moo 8, in Don Ko Ka subdistrict, Bang Nam Priao district. A female caddie, Saithan, 31, was also injured and remained under close medical supervision. Aeya's family raised concerns about why the competition had continued despite earlier lightning strikes and alleged that the absence of an ambulance at the course delayed her transfer to hospital. Rescuers restored heartbeat at course Rescue workers found Aeya unconscious and without vital signs. They performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) at the scene and restored her heartbeat before taking her to Bang Nam Priao Hospital. She was subsequently transferred to Buddhasothorn Hospital for further treatment. According to her family, her heart had stopped for nearly an hour before a pulse... https://www.sott.net/article/509251-Thai-golfer-Aeya-15-dies-after-tournament-lightning-strike Mon, 02 Nov 2026 14:25:57 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509250-At-least-60-vehicles-swept-away-in-Rhodes-Greece-after-17-hours-of-heavy-rainfall The damage caused by severe weather in the Archangelos area on the island of Rhodes is extensive, according to initial estimates, after torrents of floodwater swept away vehicles and inundated dozens of homes and businesses early on Monday. According to information obtained by the Athens-Macedonian News Agency (ANA-MPA), at least 60 vehicles were swept away and damaged, while dozens of homes and commercial premises were flooded. The full extent of the damage has yet to be assessed, with initial estimates pointing to a particularly serious situation in the area. Rainfall continues on Rhodes, although with less intensity. The Fire Service, Civil Protection authorities and volunteers remain on alert across the island, as problems and hazardous conditions persist on the road network. For safety reasons, traffic has been suspended on sections of the road network in the areas of Kolymbia, Kalathos and Archangelos, on the eastern side of Rhodes. Civil Protection has advised the public to... https://www.sott.net/article/509250-At-least-60-vehicles-swept-away-in-Rhodes-Greece-after-17-hours-of-heavy-rainfall Mon, 02 Nov 2026 13:30:18 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509249-Arizona-flooding-triggers-evacuations-highway-closures Heavy rain and flooding triggered evacuations, road closures and emergency responses across parts of Arizona on Nov. 1. Residents were ordered to leave homes in Sedona as rising water threatened communities. Flash flooding in Oak Creek Canyon prompted evacuation orders and rescue operations as water surrounded vehicles and approached homes. More south and east, residents near waterways in Camp Verde and parts of Gila County were also told to evacuate. Flooding also forced the closure of several state highways as authorities warned drivers to avoid flooded roads, washes and low-water crossings. Flash flooding triggers evacuations in Sedona On Oct. 31, the National Weather Service office in Flagstaff announced on social media that overnight flood risks could be a possibility heading into Nov. 1. At 5:37 a.m. on Nov. 1, residents in northern Arizona received a flood warning due to the excessive rainfall that was expected. https://www.sott.net/article/509249-Arizona-flooding-triggers-evacuations-highway-closures Mon, 02 Nov 2026 13:14:42 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509235-Shallow-6-magnitude-earthquake-off-Vanuatu-8th-of-such-intensity-in-13-days 6.0 Magnitude Earthquake 0.0 km from Port-Olry, Sanma, Vanuatu UTC time: Sunday, November 01, 2026 11:47 AM Your time: Sunday, 1 November 2026 at 11:47 GMT Depth: 10.0 km No tsunami statement issued Magnitude Type: mww USGS page: M 6.0 - 165 km NW of Port-Olry, Vanuatu USGS status: Reviewed by a seismologist Reports from the public: 0 persons https://www.sott.net/article/509235-Shallow-6-magnitude-earthquake-off-Vanuatu-8th-of-such-intensity-in-13-days Sun, 01 Nov 2026 19:29:15 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509231-Waterspout-spotted-off-Cyprus-in-spectacular-footage A waterspout formed over the sea near Paphos harbour on Saturday afternoon, creating a striking spectacle captured on video and shared across social media. The weather phenomenon drew attention as a funnel-shaped column appeared above the water. Videos posted online show the waterspout forming over the sea, offering dramatic views of the phenomenon off the Paphos coast. https://www.sott.net/article/509231-Waterspout-spotted-off-Cyprus-in-spectacular-footage Sun, 01 Nov 2026 12:07:06 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509229-6-0-magnitude-earthquake-strikes-off-southern-coast-of-Japans-Honshu-Island An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.0 on the Richter scale struck off the southern coast of Japan's Honshu island Sunday. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) stated that the earthquake occurred approximately 58 kilometers southeast of the city of Shima, at a depth of 352.4 kilometers. There have been no immediate reports of casualties or material damage, and no tsunami warnings have been issued. On August 22, a 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck an area off the eastern coast of Honshu. Japan is frequently affected by earthquakes and tremors, as it is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region characterized by intense seismic and volcanic activity. https://www.sott.net/article/509229-6-0-magnitude-earthquake-strikes-off-southern-coast-of-Japans-Honshu-Island Sun, 01 Nov 2026 10:35:46 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509217-Flooding-sweeps-away-vehicles-in-Guaymas-and-Empalme-Mexico-4-7-inches-of-rain-in-JUST-45-minutes Heavy rains recorded since early Friday caused flooding in Guaymas and Empalme, Sonora, where currents covered roads and swept away dozens of vehicles. El Universal reported preliminarily the death of one person who was apparently swept away along with a car by the current of a creek in the Misión del Sol neighborhood of Guaymas. It was also reported that a woman was swept away by the current on Abelardo L. Rodríguez Avenue; so far, her condition had not been officially disclosed. In various areas, accumulated water left streets and zones practically submerged. In Guaymas, water reached parts of the Tourist Boardwalk and streets in the downtown area. In response to the emergency, the Navy Secretariat activated the Marina Plan's Assistance Phase through the Second Naval Region. The Emergency Operations Committee was also established to coordinate damage assessments and support efforts among federal, state and municipal authorities. https://www.sott.net/article/509217-Flooding-sweeps-away-vehicles-in-Guaymas-and-Empalme-Mexico-4-7-inches-of-rain-in-JUST-45-minutes Sat, 31 Oct 2026 20:04:16 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509216-Lightning-strike-kills-two-sugarcane-loaders-in-Uganda Two casual labourers have been killed by lightning at Namagera Central sugarcane weighbridge in Jinja district, where they worked as loaders. The victims, Abdul Muwereza, 34, and Hassan Mubiru, 35, were reportedly taking shelter under a jackfruit tree during a rainstorm when lightning struck. Aloysious Wakabi, one of the loaders, said about 15 workers had sought shelter under the tree as rain threatened. However, their supervisor later called some of them to offload sugarcane from a truck. Wakabi said 10 workers responded to the assignment, while four remained behind. Shortly afterwards, they heard a loud blast about five metres from the truck. https://www.sott.net/article/509216-Lightning-strike-kills-two-sugarcane-loaders-in-Uganda Sat, 31 Oct 2026 19:28:50 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509211-Army-soldier-killed-in-Indian-bison-attack-while-playing-football-in-Madhya-Pradesh-India A 26-year-old Army jawan was killed after an Indian bison suddenly attacked him on the parade ground of the Army Education Corps (AEC) Training College and Centre in Narmadapuram on Thursday evening. The deceased, identified as Aakash Chouhan, a resident of Dehradun, was playing football when the animal attacked him with its horns, according to Satpura Tiger Reserve officials. During the game, two Army jawans took a brief rest and sat on the nearby stairs. All of a sudden, an Indian bison emerged and attacked Chouhan with its horns. The animal flung him away and ran back into the forest. The other Army jawans rushed to Chouhan's help and took him to the nearest military hospital. He was declared dead. Speaking to Free Press, Satpura Tiger Reserve field director Rakhi Nanda said that Indian bison often attack humans. Talking about the incident, she said that the animal returned to the forest after the attack. Asked whether the Indian bison would be captured, she said wild animals... https://www.sott.net/article/509211-Army-soldier-killed-in-Indian-bison-attack-while-playing-football-in-Madhya-Pradesh-India Sat, 31 Oct 2026 10:18:02 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509210-Fire-pollution-killed-3560-people-in-Indonesia-in-September-report Pollution from smoke emitted by months of wildfires across Indonesia caused an estimated 3,560 deaths in the vast Southeast Asian archipelago in September, according to a new study. The same month, about 57.8 million people in Indonesia were inhaling unhealthy to hazardous air, said the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), a Helsinki-based think tank. "Worsening air quality due to forest and land fires in Indonesia pushed the estimated death toll to 3,560 cases in September 2026, a twofold increase from the August estimate," said a CREA statement on Thursday. The CREA study estimated the number of deaths brought about by PM2.5 pollution in the short-term, meaning a matter of days. PM2.5 particles are small enough to penetrate the lungs or bloodstream and the World Health Organization has linked exposure to a higher risk for illness and premature death. Most estimated deaths occurred on Indonesia's part of Borneo island as well as on Java and Sumatra islands and in... https://www.sott.net/article/509210-Fire-pollution-killed-3560-people-in-Indonesia-in-September-report Sat, 31 Oct 2026 10:01:25 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509197-Fishing-trip-ends-in-tragedy-as-lightning-strike-kills-6-in-Pabna-Bangladesh At least six people were killed and two others injured in lightning strikes at Sonapatil Beel area under Pabna Sadar upazila this evening. The deceased were identified as Shaon, 22; Robbel, 22; Mizan, 12; Sazid, 10; Abdullah, 18; and Emon, 14, said police. All of them were residents of villages under Malanchi union of Pabna Sadar upazila, said Md Tariqul Islam, officer-in-charge (OC) of Pabna Sadar Police Station. Police recovered the six bodies from near Sonapatil Beel and took them to the 250-Bed Pabna General Hospital for autopsy, said Monir, assistant sub-inspector of Pabna Sadar Police Station. After autopsy, three of the bodies were handed over to their families and the others were kept at the hospital morgue, he added. Quoting locals, Malanchi Union Parishad Chairman Kabir Ahmed said a group of young men and boys had gone fishing at Sonapatil Beel this afternoon. They were sitting on the bank of the beel when lightning struck, killing them, he said. https://www.sott.net/article/509197-Fishing-trip-ends-in-tragedy-as-lightning-strike-kills-6-in-Pabna-Bangladesh Fri, 30 Oct 2026 19:48:04 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509193-Bhutan-glacial-lake-outburst-triggers-flood-no-injuries-reported A flood caused by the Shintaphu glacial lake bursting its banks has washed ​away infrastructure at the Gasa Tshachu natural hot ‌springs in the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, media reports said on Friday. No injuries or loss of life have been reported, state ​broadcaster BBS said. The hot springs at Gasa ​Tshachu are a major tourist attraction in the ⁠northern part of the country that is nestled between ​India and China. BBS reported the extent of damage from ​the late night flash flood was not known because of "darkness and the strong flow" of floodwaters. Two bailey bridges — bridges built ​in portable, pre-fabricated sections — may have been washed away, ​the broadcaster reported. https://www.sott.net/article/509193-Bhutan-glacial-lake-outburst-triggers-flood-no-injuries-reported Fri, 30 Oct 2026 11:34:47 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509192-Japans-Sakurajima-volcano-erupts-twice-sending-ash-1200-meters-above-crater Japan's Sakurajima volcano erupted twice today at its Minamidake summit crater, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. The eruptions sent ash plumes 1,000 metres and 1,200 metres above the crater. Both drifted northeast. The volcanic alert level remains at 3. https://www.sott.net/article/509192-Japans-Sakurajima-volcano-erupts-twice-sending-ash-1200-meters-above-crater Fri, 30 Oct 2026 11:01:52 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509191-Philippines-Mayon-volcano-erupts-sends-3000-meter-ash-column-into-sky One of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines, Mayon, fired a dark column of ash over thousands of metres into the sky in a "moderately explosive eruption" on Friday (October 30). The eruption lasted nearly six minutes, sending alert status up to Level 3 in Albay, according to the state seismology office. Following the eruption, there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage in towns and in the vicinity of Mount Mayon. In response, the country's volcano institute raised the alert level from 2 to 3 on its 0-5 scale, calling for evacuations within six kilometres (3.7 miles) of the crater. https://www.sott.net/article/509191-Philippines-Mayon-volcano-erupts-sends-3000-meter-ash-column-into-sky Fri, 30 Oct 2026 10:41:04 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509190-Rock-spire-collapse-triggered-by-heavy-rain-kills-3-in-Turkeys-Cappadocia A landslide triggered by heavy rain brought down a rock spire in Turkey's UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cappadocia region on Thursday, killing three people and injuring five, officials said. "According to initial findings, two people were killed and five others injured in the incident," Justice Minister Akin Gurlek said on X. Rescue teams later pulled another body from the rubble, bringing the death toll to three, Nevsehir Governor Huseyin Kok said. The nationalities of the dead were not immediately known. The collapse happened at 3:15 pm local time (1215 GMT), when a landslide caused a rockfall in the town of Goreme near the open-air museum, Kok said. Witnesses described hearing a loud noise as the spire near a car park collapsed, sending up a huge cloud of dust. Excavators and rescue workers worked into the night under floodlights to search for anyone trapped under the debris, and the area was closed to the public, according to reports. https://www.sott.net/article/509190-Rock-spire-collapse-triggered-by-heavy-rain-kills-3-in-Turkeys-Cappadocia Fri, 30 Oct 2026 10:21:58 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509189-6-2-magnitude-earthquake-off-Sanma-Vanuatu-7th-of-such-intensity-in-10-days 6.2 Magnitude Earthquake 0.0 km from Hog Harbour, Sanma, Vanuatu UTC time: Thursday, October 29, 2026 21:46 PM Your time: Thursday, 29 October 2026 at 21:46 GMT Depth: 142.0 km No tsunami statement issued Magnitude Type: mww USGS page: M 6.2 - 43 km ESE of Port-Olry, Vanuatu USGS status: Reviewed by a seismologist Reports from the public: 4 persons https://www.sott.net/article/509189-6-2-magnitude-earthquake-off-Sanma-Vanuatu-7th-of-such-intensity-in-10-days Fri, 30 Oct 2026 09:10:18 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509185-Parts-of-Tibetan-Plateaus-frozen-ground-are-gaining-ice-despite-warming High on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, the ground stays frozen, with only the top few meters melting each summer. Although the region is warming about twice as fast as the global average, a new study finds that more than a third of its permafrost, mainly in the central plateau, has gained ice since 2000. Stronger westerly winds bring more rain and snow, which seeps into the ground in summer and freezes again in winter. The work was led by Li Dongfeng at Peking University's College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, with colleagues from the Alfred Wegener Institute in Germany, Nanjing Normal University and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, among others. It was published in Science Advances. https://www.sott.net/article/509185-Parts-of-Tibetan-Plateaus-frozen-ground-are-gaining-ice-despite-warming Thu, 29 Oct 2026 21:35:29 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509178-Heavy-early-snowfall-in-the-highlands-of-central-Greece-7-8-inches-deep Heavy snowfall in the highlands of central Greece Wednesday led authorities to instruct car drivers to use snow chains on several mountain roads. A police statement said that chains would be necessary in many parts of the Evritania and Fthiotida regions, mostly on local roads around the town of Karpenissi and on the national road from Lamia to Karpenissi. Snow ploughs were also enlisted to clear the roads where necessary. Local media reported up to 20 centimeters of snow in the mountains of southwestern Thessaly. https://www.sott.net/article/509178-Heavy-early-snowfall-in-the-highlands-of-central-Greece-7-8-inches-deep Thu, 29 Oct 2026 15:53:50 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509177-Early-snow-blankets-Japan-as-Winter-arrives-ahead-of-November-up-to-7-4-inches-deep Japan's first significant snowfall of the season has brought winter conditions to Hokkaido and northern Honshu, with snow depths exceeding 10 centimeters in several mountain and inland locations on October 28, while a fresh wave of cold air is expected to bring further snowfall over the weekend of October 31 and November 1. As of 11 a.m. on October 29, the Japan Meteorological Agency had confirmed the season's first snow cover on numerous mountains extending from Hokkaido through Tohoku and into the Japanese Alps, marking a significant advance of winter weather across the country. Hokkaido experienced some of the heaviest snowfall on October 28 as a strong winter pressure pattern carried cold air southward from the Asian continent. Snow was recorded in Sapporo, Hakodate, Muroran, Obihiro, Kushiro and Abashiri, with several cities experiencing their first snowfall earlier than the seasonal average. Sapporo's first snow arrived on October 28, matching the average date but five days... https://www.sott.net/article/509177-Early-snow-blankets-Japan-as-Winter-arrives-ahead-of-November-up-to-7-4-inches-deep Thu, 29 Oct 2026 15:43:27 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509176-Baby-survives-as-lightning-kills-mother-and-four-year-old-child-in-Zimbabwe The incident happened at approximately 1.30 pm as the group left Headman Macebo's homestead in Ward Eight. The young mother had reportedly been working at a nearby homestead before the group prepared to leave. She was carrying her two-year-old child on her back when lightning struck. Local councillor Mqondisi Zikhali confirmed the incident, describing the tragedy as a shocking development for residents. "The incident happened as they left Headman Macebo's homestead. The lightning bolt killed two people on the spot, while a two-year-old child who was on her mother's back survived. Another four-year-old was rushed to hospital after surviving the strike," he said. Zikhali said the incident had stunned residents, particularly because the area had experienced little rainfall. https://www.sott.net/article/509176-Baby-survives-as-lightning-kills-mother-and-four-year-old-child-in-Zimbabwe Thu, 29 Oct 2026 15:14:44 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509174-Heavy-rain-triggers-flood-alert-in-Sharjah-United-Arab-Emirates The UAE National Centre of Meteorology issued a flash flood alert on Wednesday after heavy downpours lashed Shees and Wadi Al Helo in Sharjah. Valid from 3 pm to 8 pm on October 28, the warning urged residents and drivers to avoid flood-prone mountainous spots where water accumulates rapidly in valleys. Footage shared by Storm Centre on X revealed heavy rain in Fujairah. Meanwhile, video clips from Shees displayed wet roads, moving vehicles, and reduced visibility against mountains and palm trees. https://www.sott.net/article/509174-Heavy-rain-triggers-flood-alert-in-Sharjah-United-Arab-Emirates Thu, 29 Oct 2026 13:08:23 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509173-One-man-dead-another-missing-as-flash-floods-sweep-away-cement-mixer-truck-in-Egypt One person was killed, another went missing and a third was injured after flash floods swept away a cement mixer truck carrying three people in Egypt's South Sinai governorate, authorities said. The incident occurred in Wadi Watir, near the coastal city of Nuweiba, after heavy rainfall triggered powerful torrents through the mountainous valley on Tuesday evening. South Sinai Governor Ismail Kamal said search and rescue teams were continuing efforts to locate the missing person, while the injured victim was receiving treatment in hospital. The flooding disrupted traffic and forced authorities to close affected roads as emergency teams worked to clear mud, rocks and debris deposited by the torrents. https://www.sott.net/article/509173-One-man-dead-another-missing-as-flash-floods-sweep-away-cement-mixer-truck-in-Egypt Thu, 29 Oct 2026 12:42:29 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509172-Woman-and-niece-killed-as-flash-floods-sweep-away-car-in-Jordan A 37-year-old woman and her 27-year-old niece died after flash floods swept their vehicle off a bridge in Jordan's Madaba governorate, carrying it more than 100 metres into a valley, local media reported. The tragedy occurred near the Sayagha Bridge as the vehicle was travelling towards Madaba when torrents of water surged from higher ground following rainfall. According to local media reports, the rain had initially been light around sunset before floodwaters intensified rapidly, trapping the vehicle and sweeping it off the bridge into the valley below. The driver, who was the woman's brother and the younger victim's uncle, managed to escape by jumping from the vehicle and reaching a nearby rock. Civil Defence teams and local residents subsequently rescued him. https://www.sott.net/article/509172-Woman-and-niece-killed-as-flash-floods-sweep-away-car-in-Jordan Thu, 29 Oct 2026 12:27:56 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509171-Floods-in-Syria-kill-2-people-put-7-bridges-roads-out-of-service At least two people have died as heavy rains and floods swept across large parts of Syria, with search operations continuing for missing people. Seven bridges, culverts and dirt roads have collapsed or been put out of service, cutting major routes between governorates, including Aleppo - Raqqa, Raqqa - Deir ez-Zor and Homs - Farqlus, while displaced families have also suffered damage to their shelters. https://www.sott.net/article/509171-Floods-in-Syria-kill-2-people-put-7-bridges-roads-out-of-service Thu, 29 Oct 2026 11:56:20 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509170-Floods-maroon-300-villages-in-Odisha-India-after-Cyclone-Arnab-dumps-up-to-21-4-inches-of-rain-in-24-hours The Odisha government is coordinating with the Union Home Ministry to airlift people stranded in Ganjam district, where heavy rain and flash floods triggered by Cyclone Arnab have marooned around 300 villages, Chief Secretary Anu Garg said on Thursday, reported PTI. Tthe state has deployed 54 teams from various disaster response agencies for rescue operations as washed-out highways and disrupted train services hamper connectivity. However, low cloud cover and continued rainfall could delay air evacuations, Garg said. According to PTI, the rescue teams comprise three units of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), 27 of the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and 24 Fire Service teams. The state government plans to airlift 120 people in the first phase, Garg said, adding that the Indian Coast Guard would provide a helicopter and make the necessary arrangements. "The state government is in contact with the Ministry of Home Affairs, and arrangements are being made to... https://www.sott.net/article/509170-Floods-maroon-300-villages-in-Odisha-India-after-Cyclone-Arnab-dumps-up-to-21-4-inches-of-rain-in-24-hours Thu, 29 Oct 2026 11:35:28 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509169-Shallow-6-4-magnitude-earthquake-hits-southeast-of-Easter-Island-USGS An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.4 jolted southeast of Easter Island at 0749 GMT on Thursday, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) said. The epicenter, with a depth of 10.0 km, was initially determined to be at 36.41 degrees south latitude and 98.05 degrees west longitude. https://www.sott.net/article/509169-Shallow-6-4-magnitude-earthquake-hits-southeast-of-Easter-Island-USGS Thu, 29 Oct 2026 10:34:35 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509125-Heavy-rains-trigger-massive-flooding-in-Ecuadors-largest-city-Guayaquil-2-5-inches-of-rain-falls-in-just-an-hour-UPDATE Parts of Ecuador's largest city are underwater after severe rains battered the coast. It's the latest storm to hit the country amid a strengthening El Nino. https://www.sott.net/article/509125-Heavy-rains-trigger-massive-flooding-in-Ecuadors-largest-city-Guayaquil-2-5-inches-of-rain-falls-in-just-an-hour-UPDATE Wed, 28 Oct 2026 12:04:36 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509146-Airbus-A320-severely-damaged-by-hailstorm-on-flight-from-Yemen-to-Jordan-on-October-26-with-nose-and-cockpit-windshield-destroyed An Airbus A320 operated by Yemenia Airways has sustained severe damage after encountering a heavy hailstorm during a flight from Yemen to Jordan. The incident occurred on Monday, 26 October, while the aircraft was travelling from Aden International Airport to Queen Alia International Airport in Amman. Images show that the cockpit windshield sustained significant damage from the impact of the hailstones, while visible damage can also be seen to the nose of the Airbus A320. Despite the severity of the incident, no injuries have been reported among passengers or crew members. https://www.sott.net/article/509146-Airbus-A320-severely-damaged-by-hailstorm-on-flight-from-Yemen-to-Jordan-on-October-26-with-nose-and-cockpit-windshield-destroyed Wed, 28 Oct 2026 11:39:30 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509145-Stray-dogs-maul-toddler-to-death-in-Egypt-sparking-outrage-and-investigation A 15-month-old girl was mauled to death by a pack of seven stray dogs outside her family home in Egypt's October Gardens city, sparking public outrage and prompting a criminal investigation. The toddler, identified as Salsabil, was playing outside her home when the dogs attacked her, inflicting fatal injuries, according to local media reports. Her mother rushed to rescue her and took her to hospital, but the child died from her injuries. Prosecutors in October Gardens, west of Cairo, have launched an investigation, summoning the girl's mother for questioning and ordering police to examine CCTV footage of the attack. Authorities also released the child's father, Mohamed Othman, pending further investigation into allegations that he buried his daughter without an official burial permit. https://www.sott.net/article/509145-Stray-dogs-maul-toddler-to-death-in-Egypt-sparking-outrage-and-investigation Wed, 28 Oct 2026 11:25:00 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509144-Yet-another-major-earthquake-hits-Vanuatu-a-shallow-magnitude-6-sixth-in-9-days A 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Vanuatu island in the South Pacific on Wednesday. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) stated that the earthquake occurred 214 kilometers north-west of the town of Port-Olry, at a depth of 10 kilometers. A 6.2-magnitude earthquake had also struck the coast of Vanuatu last Sunday. Vanuatu, a volcanic archipelago in the South Pacific, lies along the "Ring of Fire", where tectonic plates meet and friction between them causes seismic activity. (QNA) https://www.sott.net/article/509144-Yet-another-major-earthquake-hits-Vanuatu-a-shallow-magnitude-6-sixth-in-9-days Wed, 28 Oct 2026 09:50:21 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509136-Earth-is-tearing-apart-beneath-the-Pacific-Northwest Scientists have captured a subduction zone off Vancouver Island in the process of tearing itself apart, revealing that these massive tectonic systems may die piece by piece rather than all at once. The discovery could help explain ancient plate fragments, volcanic activity, and how hidden breaks beneath Cascadia may influence future earthquakes. Scientists have captured an unusually detailed view of a major tectonic system beneath the Pacific Northwest beginning to come apart. The discovery, reported in Science Advances, shows a subduction zone actively breaking into pieces. Subduction zones form where one tectonic plate is forced beneath another and pushed deep into Earth. They are responsible for some of the planet's largest earthquakes, powerful volcanic eruptions, and long term changes to continents and ocean basins. Until now, however, scientists have had few opportunities to see clearly how one of these enormous systems reaches the end of its life. https://www.sott.net/article/509136-Earth-is-tearing-apart-beneath-the-Pacific-Northwest Tue, 27 Oct 2026 20:06:16 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509127-Record-King-Tides-swamp-California-and-Southeast-with-parts-of-South-Florida-reaching-hurricane-level-flooding Record King Tides swamp California and Southeast, with parts of South Florida reaching hurricane-level flooding The ongoing king tide event has broken several flooding records across some places in South Florida, even surpassing records set by several hurricanes. Peak flooding is expected to continue through Wednesday. Meanwhile, king tides also set a flood record in Los Angeles, with coastal flooding expected to continue across much of California through Thursday. https://www.sott.net/article/509127-Record-King-Tides-swamp-California-and-Southeast-with-parts-of-South-Florida-reaching-hurricane-level-flooding Tue, 27 Oct 2026 14:54:37 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509123-An-impressive-tornado-causes-significant-property-damage-between-Requinoa-and-Rengo-Chile Footage of a violent tornado passing through the O'Higgins Region, Chile. The vortex generated intense wind gusts and sent debris flying through inhabited areas. https://www.sott.net/article/509123-An-impressive-tornado-causes-significant-property-damage-between-Requinoa-and-Rengo-Chile Tue, 27 Oct 2026 10:21:56 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509122-Santa-Fe-New-Mexico-rocked-by-first-tornado-in-50-years-as-rare-twister-leaves-behind-widespread-damage A rare EF-1 tornado tore through Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Saturday, marking the first tornado recorded in the city in more than 50 years. The tornado developed at 7 p.m. in the Via Caballo neighborhood, south of Santa Fe, with peak winds of 110 mph, according to the National Weather Service's (NWS) damage survey. The storm then traveled north for approximately 1.5 miles, leaving a path of destruction before eventually dissipating near the College of Santa Fe. "Saturday night and Sunday morning, parts of our city looked like a disaster zone," Santa Fe Mayor Michael Garcia said in a press release. "The tornado that moved through our community left a path of destruction." Much of the damage occurred along Ranch Springs and Camino Chuco roads, where power poles were broken, trees were uprooted or damaged, and fences were torn down. Drone video posted by the Santa Fe Police Department shows significant damage to the roofs of numerous homes in the area. https://www.sott.net/article/509122-Santa-Fe-New-Mexico-rocked-by-first-tornado-in-50-years-as-rare-twister-leaves-behind-widespread-damage Tue, 27 Oct 2026 10:12:00 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509113-Disappearing-hurricanes-leave-disappointed-scientists-without-fuel-for-climate-alarm Hurricanes in the North Atlantic have largely disappeared this year, leaving bitterly disappointed scientists without fuel for their climate alarm and having to admit the role of natural variation, says Chris Morrison. Emergency explanations have had to be rushed to the climate catastrophising front following the shocking news that hurricanes in the North Atlantic have largely disappeared this year. Until recently the area was heading for a double bagel - zero hurricanes with zero major hurricanes, although a late storm has upset a score line never before seen in the historical record. As with all 'extreme' outlier weather events, humans must be responsible, at least that has been the mainstream reaction for around 30 years (we have the computer models to prove it). But wait, not on this occasion. Simon King from the BBC states that a natural occurring El Niño is the "biggest reason". https://www.sott.net/article/509113-Disappearing-hurricanes-leave-disappointed-scientists-without-fuel-for-climate-alarm Mon, 26 Oct 2026 20:40:43 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509111-Sudden-stratospheric-warming-powerful-El-Nino-combination-may-lead-to-extreme-Europe-cold-energy-crisis Extreme cold threatens Europe, energy crisis... When two of the planet's most powerful climate phenomena align in an unprecedented surge, atmospheric scientists pay close attention. Meteorologists like Joe Bastardi are closely monitoring a dramatic interplay high above the Northern Hemisphere - namely an exceptionally strong El Niño in the tropical Pacific coinciding with a massive Sudden Stratospheric Warming event. Their simultaneous occurrence creates an unusual atmospheric setup that could fundamentally reshape Europe's coming winter. Polar wind reversal To understand what this atmospheric doubleheader means for the continent, we need to look miles above the Arctic Circle. Under normal winter conditions, a tight ring of high-speed westerly winds known as the stratospheric polar vortex traps bitter Arctic cold safely within the high latitudes. During a Sudden Stratospheric Warming event, temperatures high in the stratosphere rise dramatically over the course of just a few days,... https://www.sott.net/article/509111-Sudden-stratospheric-warming-powerful-El-Nino-combination-may-lead-to-extreme-Europe-cold-energy-crisis Mon, 26 Oct 2026 17:57:39 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509109-Upland-sandpiper-from-North-America-turns-up-in-Turkey-recorded-there-for-the-first-time The upland sandpiper, which lives in North America and Alaska, was recorded for the first time in Turkey in the Ulualan area of the Manavgat district of Antalya. A Dutch observer first noticed the bird. With the new record, the number of bird species seen in Turkey rose to 506, while the number in Antalya rose to 361, and observers from different parts of the country began coming to Manavgat. The number of bird species recorded in Turkey to date has risen to 506 with the upland sandpiper seen in the Manavgat district of Antalya. The upland sandpiper, which lives in North America and Alaska, was recorded by birdwatchers with photos and videos in the Ulualan area of Manavgat. The species became the 361st bird species recorded in Antalya. The upland sandpiper, seen in the morning hours in the Ulualan area where the Manavgat River flows into the Mediterranean, attracted the attention of birdwatchers. After the species was recorded for the first time in Turkey, observers from different... https://www.sott.net/article/509109-Upland-sandpiper-from-North-America-turns-up-in-Turkey-recorded-there-for-the-first-time Mon, 26 Oct 2026 13:40:52 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509068-Champi-one-of-2026s-strongest-storms-kills-1-and-injures-171-as-Taiwan-shuts-down-2-feet-of-rain-in-48-hours-UPDATE One person has died and 171 others have been injured as Typhoon Champi lashes Taiwan. The person died on Thursday after being swept by waves in Liuqiu, a small island off the southeastern coast of Taiwan's main island, according to the fire department, the country's Central Emergency Operations Center reported. The casualty figures, also from the fire department, were as of Friday morning. All of Taiwan's 262 domestic flights were canceled along with 669 international flights, according to the transport ministry. Schools and offices across Taiwan's main island were closed Friday. https://www.sott.net/article/509068-Champi-one-of-2026s-strongest-storms-kills-1-and-injures-171-as-Taiwan-shuts-down-2-feet-of-rain-in-48-hours-UPDATE Mon, 26 Oct 2026 12:15:33 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509108-About-200-otter-bite-injuries-reported-in-Kerala-India-as-residents-say-attacks-extend-onto-land Residents of Mukkom in Kerala, India's Kozhikode district, say fear of otter attacks has driven people away from the Iruvazhinji River, where about 200 bite injuries have been reported. Here's what to know Onmanorama reported that in Kozhikode district, people living around Iruvazhinji say the attacks have become so disruptive that the river can no longer be used for everyday needs. Among the victims were four residents from Kodiyathoor and Chendamangallur. Two of them — Raouf, a resident of Karakkutty, and a migrant worker — were each bitten in three places on their legs. Residents described serious otter attacks in Kodiyathoor, Kottamoozhi, Edavazhikkadavu, Pudiyottil Kadavu, Karaat, Puthanveettil, and Chalakkal, Onmanorama reported. They said the danger now includes groups of otters reaching the banks, not just the river itself. https://www.sott.net/article/509108-About-200-otter-bite-injuries-reported-in-Kerala-India-as-residents-say-attacks-extend-onto-land Mon, 26 Oct 2026 11:15:38 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509107-Streets-turned-into-rivers-in-Ciudad-Juarez-Mexico Flash floods slammed Ciudad Juárez, Mexico on Oct 23-24, sweeping cars away and flooding homes. The western side of the city got hit hardest. No deaths reported. https://www.sott.net/article/509107-Streets-turned-into-rivers-in-Ciudad-Juarez-Mexico Mon, 26 Oct 2026 10:43:29 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509106-Thailands-Phuket-hit-by-flash-flooding-and-landslides-after-4-6-inches-of-rain-in-24-hours Heavy rain has triggered flash floods and landslides on the Thai island of Phuket, with the weather authority forecasting more bad weather ahead of the end of the rainy season in the south-east Asian country. The town of Patong, a popular tourist destination, was among the worst hit. Floodwaters carried rocks, mud and debris into residential areas and shopping streets, damaging houses, shops and vehicles, the Bangkok Post reported on Monday, citing authorities. After persistent rain, water and debris flowed down the hillsides into lower-lying areas overnight. The Kathu district, which includes Patong, was badly affected. Mud and boulders blocked sections of road, shop windows shattered and cars were flooded. In some areas, a driving ban was imposed. Emergency crews moved in with bulldozers and other heavy equipment to clear debris and open drainage channels, and the city administration of Patong set up emergency shelters. https://www.sott.net/article/509106-Thailands-Phuket-hit-by-flash-flooding-and-landslides-after-4-6-inches-of-rain-in-24-hours Mon, 26 Oct 2026 10:26:50 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/509101-Scientists-find-an-earthquake-gate-as-California-fault-stress-hits-a-1000-year-high Summary: Researchers say stress on Southern California's San Andreas and San Jacinto faults has reached some of the highest levels seen in a 1,000-year simulation. Because both faults are highly stressed at the same time, the Cajon Pass junction may be increasingly primed for a rupture that could cross both systems, although the study does not predict when an earthquake will happen. Present-day (2025) modeled Coulomb stress accumulation of the southern San Andreas fault system in regional context. Overlaid fault traces can be seen in gray. The white circle marks the location of the Cajon Pass and the three adjacent fault segments. The colors show the Coulomb stress, which indicates whether an earthquake is more or less likely to occur there. Southern California sits on one of the most active and closely watched fault networks in the United States. Earthquakes typically happen where sections of Earth's crust move against one another, become stuck, and slowly accumulate stress. When... https://www.sott.net/article/509101-Scientists-find-an-earthquake-gate-as-California-fault-stress-hits-a-1000-year-high Sun, 25 Oct 2026 20:41:48 +0000