https://www.sott.net/topic/7-Storms 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. Sun, 19 Apr 2026 11:29:32 +0000 https://www.sott.net/images/sottlogo_rss.jpg SOTT.net https://www.sott.net https://www.sott.net/article/505813-Storm-chaos-in-La-Pampa-Argentina-Massive-flooding-submerged-Santa-Rosa-cars-stranded Extreme weather has struck Santa Rosa, La Pampa, turning the capital city into a flood zone. On Friday, April 17, 2026, a massive storm dumped over 90mm of rain in just hours, overwhelming drainage systems and leaving several neighborhoods underwater. In this video, we cover the dramatic impact of the Santa Rosa flash floods. With wind gusts reaching 78 km/h, the storm toppled power lines and trees, causing widespread blackouts. From the flooding on Avenida Uruguay to the submerged classrooms at the National University of La Pampa (UNLPam), we look at the chaos that has gripped the city. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Thumbnail images are generated by AI. They are for illustration purposes only. https://www.sott.net/article/505813-Storm-chaos-in-La-Pampa-Argentina-Massive-flooding-submerged-Santa-Rosa-cars-stranded Sun, 19 Apr 2026 11:11:25 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505797-Lightning-strike-kills-two-children-at-school-yard-in-Turkiye Two children were killed and one person was seriously injured after lightning struck a tree in the yard of a primary school in the Ergani district of Türkiye's Diyarbakir province, Habertürk reported. The incident occurred in the morning. According to reports, lightning struck a tree located in the school yard. At that moment, 13-year-old Serkan Yıldırım, 14-year-old Kasım Yıldırım and another child who were under the tree were injured. Emergency medical teams dispatched to the scene transported the injured to hospital. Despite doctors' efforts, Serkan Yıldırım and Kasım Yıldırım died. It was reported that the condition of the other injured child, who is receiving treatment at Diyarbakir Gazi Yaşargil Training and Research Hospital, remains serious. It was noted that the children who lost their lives were cousins. An investigation into the incident is underway. https://www.sott.net/article/505797-Lightning-strike-kills-two-children-at-school-yard-in-Turkiye Sat, 18 Apr 2026 13:39:12 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505785-Lightning-strike-kills-11-cattle-in-Assam-India A lightning strike resulted in the deaths of 11 cattle in Dipuchara village in Harinagar area of Cachar district in Assam on Thursday. This incident caused severe distress for the farmers who worked in that area. Reports indicate that the incident took place during a sudden period of heavy rain which accompanied thunderstorms in the region. As the weather worsened, a group of cattle took shelter under a tree to escape the downpour. A lightning bolt struck the tree which resulted in the instant death of 11 cattle while one animal suffered severe injuries. The cattle that died in the incident belonged to multiple farmers who belong to the economically disadvantaged group which depends on farming and animal husbandry for their primary income. The loss has become a major financial blow to the affected families because it has taken away their essential income source. Meanwhile, the affected families have requested the district authorities to deliver instant compensation and disaster... https://www.sott.net/article/505785-Lightning-strike-kills-11-cattle-in-Assam-India Fri, 17 Apr 2026 19:31:51 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505778-2-feet-of-snow-falls-on-Mt-Bachelor-Oregon-in-48-hours As of Thursday morning, Mt. Bachelor ski area had received 17 inches of snow in 24 hours and a total of 48 inches over a two-day period. This mid-April storm brought 11 inches of snow overnight causing snow immersion suffocation and tree well risk at the ski area for what seems like the first time this season. It must've been quite the powder day, hopefully all who partook stayed safe. The ski area announced last week that this would be its final weekend, culminating on its end of season celebration, RendezVan. As for this weekend, the weather looks like it will clear up on the mountain. The mid-mountain forecast on Snow-forecast.com predicts that to be the last of the snow this season. Temperatures could reach into the mid-40s Saturday and Sunday. Winds are expected to die down and the sun could break through the clouds. The ski area has seen a total of 206 inches of snow this season, according to its mountain report. Its snow base was up to 43 inches Thursday. https://www.sott.net/article/505778-2-feet-of-snow-falls-on-Mt-Bachelor-Oregon-in-48-hours Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:53:18 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505777-Natural-disaster-in-Saudi-Arabia-Large-hailstones-wipes-out-livestock-in-seconds Witness the shocking and heartbreaking aftermath of the historic hailstorm that recently struck large areas of Saudi Arabia. Unprecedentedly large hailstones (Giant Hail) fell with devastating force, causing a catastrophe for livestock farmers and resulting in the deaths of large numbers of animals in a truly breathtaking scene. In this video, we document the extent of the devastation and the sheer power of this unprecedented natural phenomenon. We share the suffering of the farmers and images of the livestock that perished as a result of the hailstorm. We pray that God will compensate those affected. Nature's Fury: Massive and devastating hailstorm hits Saudi Arabia, causing a tragic die-off of livestock. This is truly apocalyptic weather. (Translated by Google) https://www.sott.net/article/505777-Natural-disaster-in-Saudi-Arabia-Large-hailstones-wipes-out-livestock-in-seconds Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:10:58 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505775-Hail-covers-parts-of-Tunisia-and-Algeria-like-snow Severe thunderstorms have affected the Mediterranean this week. On Monday, a surface low-pressure system in the Mediterranean in conjunction with an upper air cut-off low, led to thunderstorms over north Africa. Their intensity was aided by the hot precursor conditions. Algeria and Tunisia were notably affected by the thunderstorms, with some hail accumulation layers as a result. When so much hail forms, it starts to lay down sheets of hail, covering the ground like snow. Hail accumulations of up to 3cm were reported in Oum Ladjoul and Hammam Sokhna in Algeria, and there were hailstones of up to 3cm in diameter in Makthar, Tunisia. Thunderstorms continued in the region through the following day, with further hail accumulations, notably in Ouled Bousmir, Tunisia, where there was a layer about 2cm deep. Later in the week, another surface low developed, this time over Sicily. Thunderstorms broke out across parts of central Italy on Wednesday morning. These led to some severe... https://www.sott.net/article/505775-Hail-covers-parts-of-Tunisia-and-Algeria-like-snow Fri, 17 Apr 2026 13:43:30 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505774-Large-hail-of-7cms-diameter-batters-northern-Vietnam In the early morning of April 16th, a powerful hailstorm unexpectedly struck Bac Ha commune, Lao Cai province, lasting approximately 15-30 minutes and causing significant damage to both people and property. Initial reports indicate that large hailstones, with diameters ranging from 5-7 cm, fell densely, injuring four people, damaging many roofs, destroying vehicles, and ruining crops. Many local residents stated that this was a rare hailstorm, with a higher intensity than in recent years, even exceeding the level of the hailstorm that occurred in Lao Cai in 2013. https://www.sott.net/article/505774-Large-hail-of-7cms-diameter-batters-northern-Vietnam Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:45:02 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505763-Heavy-spring-snowstorm-blankets-Calgary-and-southern-Alberta Snowfall warnings in effect for much of southern Alberta Calgarians were in for another slippery commute Thursday after a spring snowstorm plunged the city back into winter driving conditions. Heavy snow is expected to continue to fall throughout the day, with total accumulations of 15 to 30 centimetres, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada. "Poor visibility due to blowing snow is occurring in some areas and will continue until mid-morning," the agency said in its yellow-level snowfall warning for the city. Yellow-level snowfall warnings are also in effect for much of southwestern Alberta. Calgary Transit has put all of its snow detour routes into effect and is asking riders to check if their route is affected while planning their trips. "We are working hard to get you to your destination safely, so please be patient and give yourself extra travel time," Calgary Transit said on its website. https://www.sott.net/article/505763-Heavy-spring-snowstorm-blankets-Calgary-and-southern-Alberta Thu, 16 Apr 2026 19:10:33 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505762-Drone-captures-flooding-in-Northern-Michigan Heavy rains and storms are staying in the forecast as floodwaters swamped areas across Northern Michigan on April 14, 2026. The dangerously rising waters have prompted evacuations in some residential areas, triggered the failure of small dams, and has state and local officials closely monitoring larger dams near populated areas as high water threatens to overtop them and flood areas downstream. The Little Traverse Conservancy flew a drone over some of its preservation areas to monitor flooding in Petoskey, Conway, Alanson, Indian River and Pigeon River. (Video provided by Charles Dawley and Little Traverse Conservancy) Read more: https://www.mlive.com/environment/202... https://www.sott.net/article/505762-Drone-captures-flooding-in-Northern-Michigan Thu, 16 Apr 2026 18:35:12 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505759-Man-killed-by-lightning-in-Waukesha-Wisconsin A man was killed by lightning on Wednesday night, according to the Waukesha police. Police said the man, who was in his 40s, was believed to have been struck when he was walking through a parking lot during last night's storms. It happened at about 7:40 p.m. outside a business in the 2000 block of Golf Road. Police said a caller reported a man down on the ground during heavy rain with thunder and lightning. https://www.sott.net/article/505759-Man-killed-by-lightning-in-Waukesha-Wisconsin Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:50:42 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505756-Floods-in-Dominican-Republic-and-Haiti-kill-at-least-19 Heavy rains and flooding in the Dominican Republic and Haiti have killed at least 19 people and displaced thousands more, according to the latest toll by officials and the Red Cross. Powerful storms that began April 7 have continued dumping rain on the neigboring Caribbean nations -- which share the island of Hispaniola -- with authorities staying vigilant despite ebbing intensity of rainfall in recent hours. Haiti's civil protection agency on Tuesday reported 12 deaths across several departments. Dominican authorities on Wednesday put the death toll in the country at seven. "Five bodies have been recovered," civil defense director Juan Salas told AFP, adding to two deaths confirmed last week. https://www.sott.net/article/505756-Floods-in-Dominican-Republic-and-Haiti-kill-at-least-19 Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:37:14 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505732-Severe-storms-produce-tornadoes-baseball-sized-hail-in-southern-Minnesota-National-Weather-Service-says Severe storms that produced several tornadoes and widespread hail rolled through southern Minnesota on Monday afternoon and evening. The National Weather Service said there were at least three confirmed tornadoes that swept through the region. A viewer captured photos of what the WCCO Next Weather team said was a confirmed tornado near Amboy, Minnesota, in Blue Earth County around 6:30 p.m. Several southern and southeast Minnesota counties were under a tornado warning at different times throughout the evening. A resident near Northfield saw golfball-sized hail on Monday while others saw various sizes of hail falling in Dennison and Faribault. https://www.sott.net/article/505732-Severe-storms-produce-tornadoes-baseball-sized-hail-in-southern-Minnesota-National-Weather-Service-says Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:44:08 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505720-Monster-typhoon-bears-down-on-US-controlled-islands-in-the-western-Pacific-Ocean-185-mph-sustained-winds-reported A dangerous typhoon bore down on two U.S. territories in the western Pacific Ocean on Tuesday, bringing strong winds and life-threatening flooding. Typhoon Sinlaku was downgraded from a super typhoon early Wednesday local time as it battered the Northern Mariana Islands, according to the latest advisory from the National Weather Service (NWS) in Guam. The center of the powerful storm was pulling away from Tinian and Saipan, moving northwest at 5 mph. Forecasters said it is expected to pass just west of the islands of Almagan, Pagan and Agrihan in the latter half of the week. As of the latest advisory, maximum sustained winds had decreased to 145 mph, with typhoon-force winds extending up to 75 miles from the center and tropical storm force winds extending outward up to 265 miles. https://www.sott.net/article/505720-Monster-typhoon-bears-down-on-US-controlled-islands-in-the-western-Pacific-Ocean-185-mph-sustained-winds-reported Tue, 14 Apr 2026 18:44:59 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505712-Palisades-Tahoe-California-snow-report-22-inches-in-24-hours-and-43-inch-3-day-storm-total The latest Palisades Tahoe, California, snow report tells a story of remarkable late-season resurgence. A sustained storm cycle has transformed conditions on the upper mountain, logging a foot of new snow overnight and driving the three-day storm total to 43 inches. The resort is now among the last Tahoe areas still operating. Most ski areas across the western U.S. have endured one of their worst seasons in recent memory, with dry and mild conditions since November, leaving many resorts struggling to open meaningful terrain. Palisades has been an exception to that late-season trend this week. Sunny breaks are emerging across the mountain on Monday, though forecasters have not ruled out additional snow showers that could add another inch to the upper elevations before conditions settle. Long-range models continue to show troughing over the region through the third week of April, with additional storm systems possible and a cooler-than-normal pattern expected to persist. The weekend... https://www.sott.net/article/505712-Palisades-Tahoe-California-snow-report-22-inches-in-24-hours-and-43-inch-3-day-storm-total Mon, 13 Apr 2026 20:53:48 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505691-Unseasonal-rain-snow-hit-north-India-in-April-Crops-suffer-damage April in North India is defying expectations this year, with unseasonal rain, snowfall, and a sharp dip in temperatures replacing the usual summer heat. States like Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi are witnessing winter-like conditions, driven by persistent Western Disturbances. These moisture-laden systems, typically active in winter, have lingered into spring, bringing storms, hail, and cloudy skies. The unusual weather has disrupted daily life and raised concerns among farmers, with significant crop damage reported. Experts warn this could signal increasing climate variability, where shifting patterns blur seasonal boundaries and make weather more unpredictable and potentially more damaging. https://www.sott.net/article/505691-Unseasonal-rain-snow-hit-north-India-in-April-Crops-suffer-damage Sun, 12 Apr 2026 18:41:50 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505690-Saudi-Arabia-suspends-in-person-classes-after-torrential-rains-floods-hit-Riyadh Saudi Arabia suspended in-person classes at several schools and universities Sunday after torrential rains and flooding swept through Riyadh and other parts of the kingdom. Footage shared on US social media company X showed torrents of water rushing through streets in the Saudi capital after intense rainfall late Saturday. The National Center for Meteorology said heavy rain affecting Riyadh would continue until early Sunday, though its intensity was expected to gradually ease. The Saudi Civil Defense urged residents in Riyadh and the Eastern Province to exercise caution and follow official safety instructions. Saudi state-run Alekhbariah said in-person classes were suspended Sunday at several universities and schools, including Al-Baha University, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences and King Khalid University. The weather center had warned Thursday that most regions of the country would experience moderate to heavy rainfall through Tuesday. https://www.sott.net/article/505690-Saudi-Arabia-suspends-in-person-classes-after-torrential-rains-floods-hit-Riyadh Sun, 12 Apr 2026 18:26:14 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505655-Rivers-surge-in-China-as-extreme-weather-brings-hail-and-floods-streets On the afternoon of April 7, 2026, Chaozhou city was suddenly affected by a new round of severe convective weather. Against the backdrop of intensified warm and humid airflow and accumulated atmospheric instability, convective cloud clusters rapidly developed over the urban area, bringing a complex combination of strong winds, frequent thunder, and heavy rainfall. https://www.sott.net/article/505655-Rivers-surge-in-China-as-extreme-weather-brings-hail-and-floods-streets Fri, 10 Apr 2026 13:59:30 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505643-April-snowfall-batters-Shimla-apple-belt-in-Himachal-Pradesh-India-growers-stare-at-heavy-losses Shimla district witnessed unexpected snowfall on Wednesday, hitting apple orchards at a crucial stage of flowering and fruit setting. Growers across Upper Shimla, including Narkanda and Kotkhai, reported extensive damage, raising concerns over a sharp decline in this season's apple production. The sudden spell of snowfall and hailstorm has damaged apple trees that had just entered the setting phase. Many orchards saw anti-hail nets collapsing under the weight of accumulated snow, while branches of trees broke in several areas. The tender blossoms, essential for fruit formation, were hit hard, and growers fear that the cold conditions will further disrupt pollination. Apple growers say the losses could be significant this year. "The snowfall has come at the worst possible time. The flowers have been damaged, and fruit setting will be affected," said a grower from Kotkhai. With temperatures dropping sharply, the conditions are not favourable for normal crop development. https://www.sott.net/article/505643-April-snowfall-batters-Shimla-apple-belt-in-Himachal-Pradesh-India-growers-stare-at-heavy-losses Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:50:09 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505642-Thats-the-worst-I-ve-ever-seen-it-Spring-snow-storm-slams-Saskatchewan-Canada-14-5-inches-dumped Some communities in Saskatchewan are digging out after an Alberta clipper blasted through the province on Tuesday, leaving an abundance of snow in its wake. "Meadow Lake had the most significant report so far at 37 centimeters," said Danielle Desjardin, who is a meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada. Prince Albert saw about 18 centimeters of snow, while Saskatoon had 16 centimetres and Nipawin had 15 centimeters, she said. Travel was not recommended on several highways around these communities on Wednesday morning, according to Saskatchewan's Highway Hotline. "On Highway 41 from Melfort going towards Saskatoon ... the snow is probably about two to three feet deep," said Landon Placsko, a psychology student at the University of Saskatchewan, on Wednesday morning. He faced grueling, snow-covered roads while traveling to Saskatoon for classes from his acreage just outside Melfort. https://www.sott.net/article/505642-Thats-the-worst-I-ve-ever-seen-it-Spring-snow-storm-slams-Saskatchewan-Canada-14-5-inches-dumped Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:43:15 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505641-Heavy-rain-triggers-deadly-floods-across-Turkiye Severe rainfall across Türkiye has led to at least two fatalities and caused extensive damage to infrastructure in multiple regions. In Osmaniye Province, flooding and mudslides hit the Kadirli district after rivers overflowed, leaving several vehicles submerged, The Caspian Post reports, citing Turkish media. In the Düzici district, a bridge spanning the Delici River collapsed, severing the road that connects the Karajaoglan neighborhood with the village of Göllüler. Negative impacts have also been reported in Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa, where streets have been inundated and traffic flow has been significantly disrupted. Local authorities have called on residents to remain cautious due to the continuing threats of flooding, mudslides, and landslides. According to Haber Global, heavy rainfall is forecast to affect 44 provinces, with some areas also expected to see snowfall as cold air masses move in from the Balkans. The Turkish Meteorological Service has issued warnings about severe... https://www.sott.net/article/505641-Heavy-rain-triggers-deadly-floods-across-Turkiye Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:31:52 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505633-Heavy-rains-floods-in-the-Dominican-Republic-damage-over-1000-homes-foot-of-rainfall-in-under-24-hours Heavy rains in the Dominican Republic killed a toddler, damaged more than 1,000 homes and caused power and water outages on Wednesday, forcing officials to suspend classes at some public and private schools. Forecasters noted that 12 inches (30 centimeters) of rain fell in some areas in less than 24 hours, forcing crews to evacuate more than 5,000 people. "There is no storm drainage system that can withstand that anywhere in the world," President Luis Abinader said. A press official with the Civil Defense agency, Jayssi Capellán, told The Associated Press that a nearly 2-year-old girl died after a wall at her home collapsed in the capital of Santo Domingo. The government ordered nonessential employees to work remotely as authorities warned of flooding and possible landslides, with more than a dozen provinces under alert, including Santo Domingo, which is the hardest hit area. https://www.sott.net/article/505633-Heavy-rains-floods-in-the-Dominican-Republic-damage-over-1000-homes-foot-of-rainfall-in-under-24-hours Thu, 09 Apr 2026 13:20:07 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505393-Russia-declares-emergency-in-Dagestans-capital-as-floods-cut-power-to-more-than-327000-people-6-killed-UPDATE Authorities in the capital of the southern Russian region of Dagestan declared a ​state of emergency on Saturday after heavy ‌rainfall led to widespread flooding and power cuts in the region. "Emergency services have been placed on high alert, ​efforts are under way to deal with ​the aftermath, and assistance will be provided ⁠to affected residents," the Makhachkala city administration ​said on Telegram. More than 327,000 people remain without ​power in Dagestan due to bad weather, the regional ministry of emergency situations said. "As of 12:00 (Moscow time, 0900 GMT), ​283 settlements with a population of 327,183 ​people, including 89,705 children, remain without electricity," the ministry said ‌on ⁠its website. https://www.sott.net/article/505393-Russia-declares-emergency-in-Dagestans-capital-as-floods-cut-power-to-more-than-327000-people-6-killed-UPDATE Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:52:04 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505415-Extreme-weather-severe-flooding-and-landslides-in-Afghanistan-leaves-148-dead-UPDATES Severe flooding, a landslide and thunderstorms in parts of Afghanistan have left 17 people dead and 26 injured over the last 24 hours, authorities said Sunday, the latest casualties from extreme weather in the country this season. The number of casualties could increase as crews from the country's National Disaster Management Authority survey the affected areas, the authority's spokesman Yousuf Hammad said in a statement. Thirteen of Afghanistan's 34 provinces, mostly in the western, central and northwestern parts of the country, were affected. The severe weather also left 147 homes either completely or partially destroyed, wiped out 80 kilometers of roads and destroyed agricultural land and irrigation canals, Hammad said. Earlier this year, heavy snowfall and flash floods left dozens of people dead across the country. https://www.sott.net/article/505415-Extreme-weather-severe-flooding-and-landslides-in-Afghanistan-leaves-148-dead-UPDATES Wed, 08 Apr 2026 14:47:20 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505594-57-goats-4-sheep-killed-in-lightning-strike-in-Jammu-and-Kashmir-India In a tragic incident reported from Jammu and Kashmir, at least 61 sheep and goats of a Bakerwal family were killed after lightning struck a large herd of livestock in Bani area of Kathua district on Saturday evening. The incident took place in Assu village of Bani where the family, originally hailing from Thaa village, was temporarily staying en route to upper reaches amid heavy rains in the region. The lightining strike at around 6 PM on Saturday left 28 goats and 3 sheep of the affected owner Raqeeb Ahmad, son of Abdul Gani, dead as per officials. The second owner Gafoor Ahmad, son of Raqeeb Ahmad also lost 29 goats and one sheep in the natural disaster. The affected family has appealed to the government and district administration to provide immediate financial assistance so that they can repair the damage. https://www.sott.net/article/505594-57-goats-4-sheep-killed-in-lightning-strike-in-Jammu-and-Kashmir-India Tue, 07 Apr 2026 09:34:29 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505578-Angola-hit-by-deadly-floods-at-least-29-dead-and-thousands-displaced-UPDATE Severe flooding has killed at least 15 people in Angola and forced thousands to flee their homes, according to local authorities. The floods, caused by heavy rains, have affected several regions of the country, worsening an already fragile humanitarian situation. The floods caused significant material damage, sweeping away homes and destroying essential infrastructure. In some areas, roads were cut off and villages isolated, complicating access for emergency services and slowing aid operations for the affected population. Authorities are reporting widespread destruction. Thousands of people have been displaced, often in emergency situations, and are now homeless. Living conditions in the affected areas are particularly precarious, with limited access to clean water, food, and healthcare. Humanitarian organizations are warning of the risk of disease spreading in the flooded areas. https://www.sott.net/article/505578-Angola-hit-by-deadly-floods-at-least-29-dead-and-thousands-displaced-UPDATE Mon, 06 Apr 2026 12:28:14 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505564-Homes-flooded-roads-swamped-in-Miaoli-Taiwan-after-heavy-rain Heavy rain on Saturday triggered mudslides and flooding in Miaoli County, inundating homes and roads, disrupting traffic and leaving residents stranded in muddy water. https://www.sott.net/article/505564-Homes-flooded-roads-swamped-in-Miaoli-Taiwan-after-heavy-rain Sun, 05 Apr 2026 19:32:50 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505559-Lightning-strike-kills-65-sheep-in-Balochistan-Pakistan At least 65 sheep were killed after being struck by lightning in Balochistan's Mashkhel district, leaving the affected herder in deep distress. According to details, the tragic incident occurred during heavy rainfall when a sudden lightning strike killed 65 sheep instantly, causing losses worth hundreds of thousands of rupees. The herder said the incident had destroyed everything he owned, describing the livestock as his entire livelihood. Media reports stated that the incident took place in a suburban area of the district. In addition to those killed, 15 sheep were seriously injured, further compounding the herder's losses. Speaking to the media, the distressed herder broke down in tears, saying he had been left completely helpless. Local residents and the herder have appealed to the provincial government and district administration for financial assistance. https://www.sott.net/article/505559-Lightning-strike-kills-65-sheep-in-Balochistan-Pakistan Sun, 05 Apr 2026 14:33:29 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505550-Desert-turns-snow-white-Unexpected-hailstorm-blankets-parts-of-Rajasthan-India The golden sands of the Thar Desert underwent a startling transformation on Friday, April 3, 2026, as a massive hailstorm turned parts of Rajasthan into a landscape resembling the snow-capped valleys of Kashmir. Residents in the Arjunsar and Rajiyasar areas of Bikaner district witnessed a rare atmospheric event that saw temperatures plummet and roads disappear under a thick layer of ice. WHY DID THE THAR DESERT TURN WHITE? While the visuals shared by IFS officer Parveen Kaswan looked like a winter wonderland, this was actually the result of an intense hailstorm triggered by a Western Disturbance. A Western Disturbance is a weather system that originates over the Mediterranean region and travels eastward, bringing moisture and cooling to northwest India. When this moisture-laden air met the intense heat of the desert, it created powerful updrafts. https://www.sott.net/article/505550-Desert-turns-snow-white-Unexpected-hailstorm-blankets-parts-of-Rajasthan-India Sat, 04 Apr 2026 19:03:08 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505523-More-than-a-meter-of-snow-closed-roads-villages-cut-off-in-southern-France Intense snowfall mixed with strong gusts of wind, villages buried under astronomical amounts of powder snow... It is almost apocalyptic weather that reigns over these regions in recent days... and the inhabitants will remember it. Who could have predicted that 2026 would go down in history? Both in terms of rainfall and snowfall, it has broken numerous records this year. The many ski resorts still open are proof of this, as the intense snowfall of recent days has once again blanketed the slopes in white. This allows skiers who wish to do so to enjoy the pleasures of skiing one last time at Easter. While the heavy snowfall is a boon for ski resorts, this isn't necessarily the case elsewhere. When winter hasn't yet had its final say in the mountains, sometimes an entire area is paralyzed, as was the case this week. https://www.sott.net/article/505523-More-than-a-meter-of-snow-closed-roads-villages-cut-off-in-southern-France Fri, 03 Apr 2026 13:17:22 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505510-12-people-died-after-heavy-rains-thunderstorms-floods-in-Pakistan In Pakistan, 12 people have died over the past 24 hours after heavy rains, thunderstorms, and flash floods affected multiple provinces. Authorities declared an emergency in Karachi as heavy rains that started this morning triggered urban flooding. Rescue services, including Edhi Trust and Chhipa Welfare, confirmed five deaths due to electrocution and house walls collapsing in different areas. In Balochistan, the Pakistan Disaster Management Cell reported seven deaths in various parts of the province, including Turbat, Kohlo, Jaffarabad, Loralai, Harnai and Quetta, due to heavy rains since yesterday. Officials reported that a passenger bus carrying 15 people was swept away in the Killa Abdullah area, with rescue teams working to locate and save the passengers. https://www.sott.net/article/505510-12-people-died-after-heavy-rains-thunderstorms-floods-in-Pakistan Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:37:02 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505509-Storm-batters-Greece-killing-one-flooding-homes-and-disrupting-travel A man died and dozens of homes were flooded after heavy rain and gale-force winds battered ​Greece, leaving authorities rushing to repair damage on ‌Thursday. Greek authorities have recovered the body of a man in the seaside holiday town of Nea Makri, 35 kilometres (21.75 miles) ​northeast of Athens, a fire brigade official told ​Reuters on Thursday. The man was believed to ⁠have been carried away by a torrent and trapped ​under a car as he attempted to cross a ​flooded street, local media reported. The fire brigade said it has received hundreds of calls to rescue people trapped in floodwater and help ​clear roads of fallen trees as the Erminio ​storm swept through Athens and several islands in the Aegean Sea ‌on ⁠Wednesday. Early on Thursday, crews were still removing debris, pumping water from flooded buildings and repairing damaged infrastructure east of the capital. Authorities also banned some ferries from sailing ​from the ​port of Piraeus ⁠near Athens to the Greek islands.... https://www.sott.net/article/505509-Storm-batters-Greece-killing-one-flooding-homes-and-disrupting-travel Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:13:47 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505508-Italy-Snowstorms-floods-and-heavy-rain-leave-people-trapped-in-their-homes Heavy rain and snowstorms in central and southern Italy brought down bridges and left people trapped in their homes on Thursday. Firefighters used special snowcat trucks to plow through huge banks of snow in small towns in the Italian region of Molise. https://www.sott.net/article/505508-Italy-Snowstorms-floods-and-heavy-rain-leave-people-trapped-in-their-homes Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:02:23 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505499-1000-mile-Saharan-dust-storm-across-northwestern-Africa-from-the-sky-and-from-the-ground A massive dust storm, or haboob, swept across the Sahara Desert from western Algeria into Mauritania, Morocco, Western Sahara and the Canary Islands on Monday. The dust stretched for more than 1,000 miles. As meteorologists observed the dust storm from space via weather satellites, social media users captured the incoming dust storm on camera. One video shows a thick wall of dust and sand moving toward a resident of the town of Tindouf, near the Mauritanian, Western Saharan and Moroccan borders. While this storm didn't make it too far off the coast, significant amounts of dust can drift westward from Africa across the Atlantic beginning in May. This can inhibit tropical storm formation, or the strengthening of an existing system, because the dusty air has about 50 less moisture than the typical tropical atmosphere. Strong winds in the dust layer can also substantially increase the vertical wind shear in and around the storm environment, potentially disrupting any storm that forms.... https://www.sott.net/article/505499-1000-mile-Saharan-dust-storm-across-northwestern-Africa-from-the-sky-and-from-the-ground Wed, 01 Apr 2026 22:04:55 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505489-Snow-nearly-6-feet-deep-leaves-tourists-stranded-in-Polands-Tatra-Mountains Heavy snowfall has trapped around a dozen people in a remote shelter high in Poland's Tatra Mountains. Following a deterioration in weather and a heightened risk of avalanches, authorities at the Tatra National Park in southern Poland said on Tuesday that all 275 kilometers of trails would be shut until further notice. The extreme winter weather has left around a dozen tourists and staff stranded at a mountain hut in the famous Valley of Five Lakes, the hut's owner, Marta Krzeptowska told the Polish state-owned news agency, PAP. With snow cover in some places reaching up to 180 cm (71 inches) on Tuesday, Krzeptowska said guests would have to remain in the shelter until conditions improved and trails reopened. But she emphasized that the situation is under control. https://www.sott.net/article/505489-Snow-nearly-6-feet-deep-leaves-tourists-stranded-in-Polands-Tatra-Mountains Wed, 01 Apr 2026 19:40:55 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505035-Flash-floods-in-Nairobi-Kenya-kill-at-least-110-UPDATED Aid workers ‌pulled bodies from floodwaters across Nairobi on Saturday after overnight flash floods killed at least 10 people, swept away dozens of cars and ​disrupted flights at East Africa's biggest airport, authorities said. In ​the industrial neighbourhood of Grogan, security guard John Lomayan, ⁠34, looked at the body of an elderly man ​he recognised - a roadside egg seller - trapped beneath a car that ​had been washed away when the Nairobi River burst its banks. "I saw him being carried by the water from up there," he said, gesturing ​up the road. "We didn't know where he had gone. ​It is only now that we see him under the car". A Reuters reporter ‌saw ⁠three bodies pulled from underneath cars. Police said 10 people had been confirmed dead so far. https://www.sott.net/article/505035-Flash-floods-in-Nairobi-Kenya-kill-at-least-110-UPDATED Mon, 30 Mar 2026 19:47:23 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505447-15-dead-9-missing-after-flash-floods-in-Yemen Flash floods caused by heavy rains have killed 15 people and left nine missing in Yemen's Taiz Governorate, with extensive damage reported, state-run Saba news agency said on Sunday. The agency said the floods, triggered by torrential rains early Friday, struck host communities and camps for internally displaced persons in western and northwestern Taiz. A preliminary government report confirmed the deaths included women and children, while nine others remain missing in Mocha, a port city of the governorate. Initial estimates indicated nearly 5,900 families were affected, with homes partially or completely damaged. Yemen's meteorological authorities warned residents to avoid valleys and low-lying areas during and after rainfall. Source(s): Xinhua News Agency https://www.sott.net/article/505447-15-dead-9-missing-after-flash-floods-in-Yemen Mon, 30 Mar 2026 19:35:15 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505394-Massive-late-March-snowstorm-buries-Europes-eastern-Alps-with-up-to-1-5-meter-nearly-5-feet-of-snow A powerful late-season storm cycle has delivered a major refresh across the eastern Alps, with Switzerland leading the charge after several days of sustained snowfall. The standout has been Engelberg, where snowfall totals have been exceptional even by mid-winter standards. According to OpenSnow data, the resort received 84 cm (33 inches) in the past 24 hours and 132 cm (52 inches) over the past five days, catapulting conditions back into peak-season form. The storm has been driven by a moist northwesterly flow, favoring northern Alpine regions and creating classic "Nordstau" conditions—where precipitation intensifies as air is forced over the mountains. The storm didn't stop at Switzerland. Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak, was also hammered, with around 1.5 meters (nearly 5 feet) of fresh snow reported in recent days. But that much snow comes with complications. In a post on social media, the resort cautioned: "A lot of snow does not automatically mean a lot of skiing. 1.5... https://www.sott.net/article/505394-Massive-late-March-snowstorm-buries-Europes-eastern-Alps-with-up-to-1-5-meter-nearly-5-feet-of-snow Sat, 28 Mar 2026 16:22:07 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505386-Malawi-floods-leave-34-dead-nearly-200-injured At least 34 people have died, and nearly 200 others have been injured after heavy rains and flooding swept across Malawi last week, displacing thousands, the country's disaster management agency said on Thursday. Flooding across 23 administrative areas has affected more than 69,000 households, or roughly 310,000 people, with over 6,000 households taking refuge in 84 emergency shelters, the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) said in a statement. The southern district of Chikwawa is the hardest-hit, as nearly 25,000 households have been affected, more than 1,800 displaced into 24 emergency shelters, and nine people killed. The DoDMA said the toll could rise as local authorities continue assessing areas that remain largely inaccessible. The department is working with humanitarian partners to deliver relief to affected areas and has allocated a $10 million (17 billion Malawian Kwacha) to address urgent needs, restore basic services, prevent secondary impacts, and begin... https://www.sott.net/article/505386-Malawi-floods-leave-34-dead-nearly-200-injured Sat, 28 Mar 2026 12:20:02 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505382-Winter-is-back-Snow-invades-the-mountainous-areas-of-Elbasan-Albania The heavy snowfall that hit the Elbasan Region last night has temporarily restored the winter atmosphere to the mountainous areas, covering dozens of villages in four municipalities of this region. According to field data, the mountain villages of the municipalities of Elbasan, Librazhd, Gramsh and Prrenjas woke up this morning under a layer of snow ranging from 15 to 25 centimeters. The precipitation began around 20:30 pm yesterday evening and continued with intensity until after midnight, creating a typical winter panorama on the eve of spring. The most affected areas are the Shebenik National Park, the tourist village of Fushë Studen, as well as a number of neighborhoods and villages over 800 meters above sea level in the Administrative Unit of Librazhd, including Orenjë, Qarrishtë, Dragostunjë, Polis, Babje, Dardhë and Xhyrë, where the snow thickness reaches at least 25 centimeters. The same situation is present in all mountainous areas of the region, while this morning has... https://www.sott.net/article/505382-Winter-is-back-Snow-invades-the-mountainous-areas-of-Elbasan-Albania Fri, 27 Mar 2026 20:41:00 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505376-Worlds-tallest-building-hit-by-lightning-as-Dubai-suffers-flooding-after-heavy-storms Dubai has been hit by overnight flooding after "intense downpours" hit several cities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), prompting officials to issue warnings. Dramatic pictures were posted online by the Dubai Media Office and others of lightning striking the 829m/2,722ft Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building. Authorities in the UAE activated emergency measures and issued safety alerts across the country, Gulf News said. "Heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds" swept across large parts of the UAE from Thursday into early Friday. An unstable weather system caused "lightning, booming thunder and intense downpours in several cities", as well as "dust-raising winds and reduced visibility", the outlet said. https://www.sott.net/article/505376-Worlds-tallest-building-hit-by-lightning-as-Dubai-suffers-flooding-after-heavy-storms Fri, 27 Mar 2026 20:22:55 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505374-Snow-in-Greece-Winter-returns-in-late-March Snowfall sweeps across Epirus and Western Macedonia, covering Metsovo, Tzoumerka and Zagori as temperatures drop and authorities deploy snowplows. Greece saw an unexpected return to winter overnight, as snowfall swept across several mountainous regions, turning villages into postcard-like scenes more typical of January than late March. In the northern region of Epirus, snow began falling late in the evening and continued into the early morning, covering high-altitude areas above 3,300 feet (1,000 meters). The phenomenon affected parts of the Ioannina regional unit, including well-known mountain destinations such as Metsovo, Tzoumerka, Konitsa and Zagori. By dawn, Metsovo — a traditional mountain town popular with visitors year-round — was blanketed in fresh snow. Rooftops, streets and surrounding hills were coated in white, while intermittent snowfall and low-hanging clouds added to the subdued, almost hushed atmosphere. https://www.sott.net/article/505374-Snow-in-Greece-Winter-returns-in-late-March Fri, 27 Mar 2026 20:08:47 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505373-Snow-blankets-crocuses-in-Polands-Tatra-Mountains-raising-concerns-for-spring-display Heavy snowfall in southern Poland has blanketed blooming crocuses in the Chochołowska Valley, a scenic valley in the Tatra Mountains near the Slovak border that is one of the country's best-known signs of spring. After several warm, sunny days brought the flowers into bloom, fresh snowfall has now covered them, raising concerns that this year's display may be less vibrant than usual. By Friday morning, around 15 centimeters of snow had fallen in Zakopane, a popular resort town at the foot of the Tatras, with more forecast later in the day. The return of winter weather has also worsened conditions in the mountains, prompting the Tatra Volunteer Search and Rescue Service (TOPR) to issue a Level 2 avalanche warning. The Chochołowska Valley is famous for its annual crocus bloom, which typically draws large numbers of tourists each spring. https://www.sott.net/article/505373-Snow-blankets-crocuses-in-Polands-Tatra-Mountains-raising-concerns-for-spring-display Fri, 27 Mar 2026 19:46:56 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505372-Landslides-triggered-by-heavy-rainfall-kill-at-least-20-people-in-Tanzania Landslides triggered by heavy rainfall have killed at least 20 people in southern Tanzania in recent days, authorities said, as the death toll from across the wider East African region continues to rise. Rainfall and high winds caused landslides that destroyed houses early Wednesday in the Mbeya region, said Jaffar Haniu, administrator for the Rungwe district where the landslides happened. "The death toll now stands at 20," he told reporters. "One victim is a very young child, a year and a half old." He said meteorologists predict more rainfall in the days ahead, and urged residents of landslide-prone areas to evacuate. In neighboring Kenya, which experiences seasonal flooding each year, at least 88 people have been killed. Flooding events have affected 21 counties and at least two rivers have burst their banks since heavy rains started earlier this month. https://www.sott.net/article/505372-Landslides-triggered-by-heavy-rainfall-kill-at-least-20-people-in-Tanzania Fri, 27 Mar 2026 19:28:00 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505363-Floods-and-floods-cause-damage-to-avenues-in-Bauru-Brazil Heavy rains caused flooding, landslides, flash floods and falling trees and branches in the city of Bauruin the interior of São Paulo, during the late afternoon of this Wednesday (25). According to Civil Defense, in addition, two victims were trapped inside a vehicle due to the storms, and were rescued by the Fire Department. The incidents remain ongoing. Also according to the agency, Bauru was the city that recorded the highest rainfall in 24 hours in the entire state of São Paulo. In a note, Bauru City Hall informed that, due to the strength of the water, the repair service at the site should begin this Thursday (26), if weather conditions improve. https://www.sott.net/article/505363-Floods-and-floods-cause-damage-to-avenues-in-Bauru-Brazil Fri, 27 Mar 2026 12:43:25 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505344-Heavy-spring-snowfall-and-strong-winds-shut-key-roads-towards-Croatian-coast A sudden deterioration in weather conditions has disrupted major transport links between inland Croatia and the Adriatic coast on Thursday, after heavy snow, strong winds and rough seas swept across parts of the country. Authorities issued the highest red weather alert for areas around Rijeka and Gospić as a cold front brought intense snowfall and gale-force winds. The severe conditions have forced the closure of key road routes used by freight traffic travelling between the interior and the coastal regions of Kvarner, Istria and Dalmatia. Traffic authorities reported that no open road routes are currently available for lorries with trailers or articulated trucks travelling towards the coast or back inland. Restrictions are in place on several major routes, including motorway and state road sections crossing mountainous regions where winter conditions have developed rapidly. https://www.sott.net/article/505344-Heavy-spring-snowfall-and-strong-winds-shut-key-roads-towards-Croatian-coast Thu, 26 Mar 2026 15:38:35 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505340-Hail-turns-roads-deserts-white-in-Fujairah-RAK-as-heavy-rains-hit-the-United-Arab-Emirates Hail and heavy rains swept across parts of the UAE, transforming stretches of desert and city landscapes into a sheet of white. Footage posted on social media by Storm Centre showed the scale of the weather impact, with Fujairah, Al Dhafra Region and Ras Al Khaimah being covered with hail. In Fujairah, hail fell steadily over open desert terrain, with ice pellets accumulating across the sand to form thin white patches. Dark, towering storm clouds loomed overhead, underscoring the intensity of the system moving through the eastern region. In Al Dhafra, the phenomenon appeared even more dramatic, with hail lining the edges of sand dunes and tracing white contours across the orange landscape, creating a rare, almost surreal contrast. https://www.sott.net/article/505340-Hail-turns-roads-deserts-white-in-Fujairah-RAK-as-heavy-rains-hit-the-United-Arab-Emirates Thu, 26 Mar 2026 12:01:15 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505339-Storms-wash-away-vehicles-and-flood-homes-across-the-Middle-East Vehicles were washed away in floods in Oman and homes were flooded in Syria as storms brought torrential rain and hail to countries across the Middle East. https://www.sott.net/article/505339-Storms-wash-away-vehicles-and-flood-homes-across-the-Middle-East Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:40:24 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505321-Record-snowfall-and-cold-temperatures-in-Canada-expected-to-carry-into-spring-months While many consider March 21 the official start of spring, Environment Canada says meteorological spring begins on March 1. With lingering winter conditions across Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo, including below-seasonal temperatures and record amounts of snow, the agency says a colder-than-normal pattern is expected to continue through the spring months of March, April and May across northern Alberta and the northern Prairies. In its seasonal outlook, Environment Canada forecasts cooler-than-average temperatures across parts of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Prairie regions, including northeastern Alberta. Warmer-than-normal conditions are more likely in southern parts of the Prairies, as well as British Columbia and parts of eastern Canada. https://www.sott.net/article/505321-Record-snowfall-and-cold-temperatures-in-Canada-expected-to-carry-into-spring-months Wed, 25 Mar 2026 10:10:00 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505309-Thousands-evacuated-in-Canary-Islands-as-storms-floods-hit-Spanish-islands Thousands of people have been evacuated after a storm slammed into a holiday hotspot popular with Brits. Over 3,000 people had to be evacuated in badly hit parts of Gran Canaria as Storm Therese wrought havoc, causing floods and landslides in a storm that has lasted the best part of a week. Brits were caught up in what is one of the worst storms to hit the Spanish Canary Islands in decades. Entire communities were cut off due to flooding, with evacuated people taken to makeshift shelters. Over 40,000 Brits are believed to live in the Canary Islands, while Gran Canaria is popular with tourists, particularly during the looming Easter holidays. Damage from the storm has been extensive. Heavy runoff in the remote El Cadeiro area of Gran Canaria caused access to be completely cut off for one family. A drone had to be deployed by local police in order to deliver vital medicine to the isolated residents. https://www.sott.net/article/505309-Thousands-evacuated-in-Canary-Islands-as-storms-floods-hit-Spanish-islands Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:30:20 +0000 https://www.sott.net/article/505306-Mozambique-floods-kill-18-as-heavy-rains-continue A second wave of heavy rains has triggered floods across Mozambique, leaving 18 people dead, thousands displaced, and infrastructure damaged, the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD) said Monday. In a post on US social media platform Facebook, the agency said most of the deaths were due to drowning, while 31 accommodation centers nationwide are sheltering around 10,000 people, including four centers in the southern province of Inhambane hosting roughly 4,000. According to INGD, the 2025-2026 rainy and cyclonic season has affected nearly 1 million people nationwide, killed 285, flooded tens of thousands of homes, and damaged schools, roads and agricultural areas. https://www.sott.net/article/505306-Mozambique-floods-kill-18-as-heavy-rains-continue Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:05:51 +0000