A fast-moving wildfire in western Canada destroyed about 230 homes in an Indigenous community near Vernon, British Columbia. The fire spread quickly due to strong winds, forcing thousands of people to evacuate, and is one of Canada’s most damaging wildfires in recent years.
Key Facts
The Bradley Creek wildfire destroyed about 230 homes in the Okanagan Indian Band reserve.
The fire started late on Friday and was driven by wind gusts up to 115 km/h (71 mph).
About 8,000 people have been evacuated across British Columbia due to wildfires.
The BC Wildfire Service reported roughly 120 wildfires across the province, with about 50 out of control.
Aerial firefighting crews helped protect important buildings like a daycare and a new school.
Other major wildfires are burning near Boston Bar, Clinton, and Kimberley in British Columbia.
This fire is among Canada’s most destructive recently, following a 2024 fire in Jasper and one in 2023 in the Okanagan region.
Smoke from wildfires in Canada has affected air quality across North America over recent years.
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Temperatures in the UK are expected to drop in the next few days, ending the recent heatwave in parts of southern and eastern England. Thunderstorms and strong winds will bring cooler, less humid weather, but another heatwave could develop next week.
Key Facts
The UK recently matched the record of 34 days with temperatures at or above 30°C (86°F) in one year.
A low-pressure system has caused heavy rain and thunderstorms, especially in northern and western UK regions.
The Met Office issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms in north-east Scotland on Wednesday.
Storms could bring lightning, hail, strong winds, up to 50mm of rain in some places, and risk of flash flooding.
Temperatures will cool to around 15°C to 24°C, close to the August average by Thursday.
Humidity levels will drop, making the weather feel more comfortable.
Some forecasts suggest a sixth heatwave may form next week, especially in south-east England.
It is too early to know how long or strong the potential next heatwave will be.
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Fifteen elephants died near Amboseli National Park in Kenya between June and July 2026. Kenya Wildlife Service found signs of cyanide poisoning from pesticides on nearby tomato farms, but some experts and farmers are not sure this explains the deaths.
Key Facts
The elephants died between 24 June and 24 July 2026 near Amboseli National Park in Kenya.
Kenya Wildlife Service found cyanide traces in elephant stomach samples, possibly from pesticides.
The elephants showed partial paralysis before dying, suggesting poisoning.
Tomato farms near the park use pesticides that may contain cyanide compounds, some illegal in Kenya.
Experts and farmers are skeptical that pesticides alone caused the deaths because elephant eating patterns and behavior don’t fully match the poisoning theory.
The Amboseli ecosystem is a large area where over 2,000 elephants move between Amboseli and Tsavo National Parks.
Illegal and highly hazardous pesticides are smuggled across the Tanzania-Kenya border with weak enforcement.
Conservationists say more detailed information is needed to confirm what killed the elephants.
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Colombia has become the first Latin American country to make female genital mutilation (FGM) illegal. The practice, carried out mainly within Indigenous Emberá communities, involves removing or injuring female genital organs and can cause serious health problems. Activists and lawmakers worked together to pass the law after many years of efforts to end FGM.
Key Facts
Female genital mutilation (FGM) is the partial or complete removal of female genital organs for non-medical reasons.
FGM can cause bleeding, infections, problems during childbirth, and loss of sexual pleasure.
Over 230 million girls and women worldwide have undergone FGM, mainly in Africa.
Colombia’s Emberá Indigenous community still practices FGM secretly.
Between 2020 and June 2024, 240 cases of FGM were officially reported in Colombia.
Health experts believe the real number of FGM cases in Colombia is much higher.
Affected girls are often very young, under six years old.
Activists and medical professionals emphasize the need for education about FGM alongside legal measures.
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The U.S. State Department canceled the visa of Brazil's ambassador after Brazil delayed approval of President Trump's nominee for U.S. ambassador to Brazil. The visa will be restored if Brazil agrees to the U.S. ambassador pick. This is part of growing tension between the two countries, including visa refusals, trade tariffs, and diplomatic disputes.
Key Facts
The U.S. revoked Brazil's ambassador Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti's visa.
The visa will be reinstated if Brazil approves Daniel Perez as U.S. ambassador to Brazil.
Brazil has delayed approving Perez, who is a Republican linked to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Brazil previously denied visas to two U.S. officials accusing them of interfering with Brazil's elections; the U.S. denied those claims.
Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva seeks reelection against Sen. Flávio Bolsonaro, son of the imprisoned former President Jair Bolsonaro.
The U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on some imports from Brazil, citing unfair trade practices.
Brazil condemned the tariffs, saying the U.S. has a trade surplus with Brazil and accused the U.S. of political motives.
The U.S. labeled two Brazilian drug gangs as terrorist groups, which Brazil's President Lula strongly criticized.
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The Pentagon has made agreements with the companies Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin to increase the production of parts for missile interceptor systems. These systems are used to detect and destroy incoming missiles to protect against attacks.
Key Facts
The Pentagon signed framework agreements with Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin.
The goal is to increase production of missile interceptor components.
Missile interceptors help defend against missile threats.
The announcement was made on a Monday.
The agreements are meant to strengthen defense capabilities.
Both companies are major U.S. defense contractors.
Increasing production aims to improve national security preparedness.
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Senator Marco Rubio said there has been progress in discussions between Iran and Oman about the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway. These talks focus on issues related to the passage of ships through the strait.
Key Facts
Senator Marco Rubio commented on talks involving Iran and Oman.
The discussions are about the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz is an important channel for shipping.
Progress is reported in the negotiations.
The talks aim to address issues around safely passing ships.
Oman is acting as a mediator between Iran and other parties.
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The Charity Commission in England and Wales has started an official investigation into charities that may have donated money to Israeli settlements considered illegal under international law. The inquiry will focus on how much money went to these settlements, whether the funds were used properly, and if any regulatory actions are needed.
Key Facts
The investigation was triggered by reports that UK charities gave at least £28 million to illegal Israeli settlements.
The Charity Commission’s initial inquiry will focus on eight charities, with plans to include more over time.
The inquiry aims to gather facts and may lead to new rules to ensure charities act transparently and follow the law.
An earlier report showed two UK charities transferred around £5.7 million to a high school in an Israeli-occupied area.
British politicians, including Labour MPs, have called for a full ban on donations to illegal settlements rather than just an investigation.
The Charity Commission has shared information with police and tax authorities, but police are not currently investigating any charities.
The investigation responds to a formal complaint by Labour MP Melanie Ward and concern expressed by then Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper.
A British charity funded a religious school linked to expansion plans in the contested city of Hebron, where disputed building permits were recently approved.
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Wildfires in eastern Washington have forced tens of thousands of people to leave their homes and have destroyed over 700 buildings in the Spokane area. Authorities have arrested a man suspected of starting the most damaging fire.
Key Facts
Three wildfires are burning in the Spokane area of eastern Washington.
These fires have made tens of thousands of people evacuate their homes.
More than 700 buildings have been destroyed by the fires.
Firefighters are working hard but are having trouble controlling the fires.
A man has been arrested on suspicion of starting the most destructive wildfire.
Washington’s commissioner of public lands, Dave Upthegrove, discussed the situation with journalist Amna Nawaz.
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A group of capybaras entered the legislative assembly building in Mato Grosso, Brazil, surprising lawmakers during a voting session. The animals, which often visit the building from a nearby park, calmly walked through the halls without causing any damage.
Key Facts
Capybaras are the largest rodents in the world and live mostly in South America.
These animals are known for being calm and social, often seen in groups near water.
The Mato Grosso state legislature building is next to a park where the capybaras live.
Staff member Nayara Bueno filmed the capybaras inside the building on July 30 and tried to guide them back outside.
Lawmakers were surprised by the visit during a voting session.
Capybaras have become popular on social media for their peaceful nature.
The rodents often appear in the legislative building, and staff have grown used to seeing them.
The capybaras caused no damage during their visit.
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A review by intelligence experts ranked MI6 as the most powerful foreign intelligence service in Europe, ahead of France and the Netherlands. The ranking praised MI6’s ability to recruit important informants and gather information from countries like Russia and China.
Key Facts
MI6 scored 251 points in a peer review by 60 intelligence professionals from 25 countries.
France’s intelligence agency (DGSE) ranked second with 169 points, noted for its global reach and operations.
The Netherlands, Ukraine, and Germany completed the top five services in Europe.
Slovakia’s intelligence service was rated the lowest among those surveyed.
The review was conducted by French magazine L’Express, which asked intelligence people to rate Western-allied services.
MI6 was recognized for early warnings to Ukraine about the Russian invasion in 2022 and strong support for Kyiv.
Blaise Metreweli became the first woman to lead MI6 last year.
French DGSE is known for counter-terrorism and covert operations, including targeted killings ordered by former President François Hollande.
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Young women who took part in anti-government protests in India faced online abuse and threats after sharing videos and posts on social media. These women, involved in a youth movement called the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), say they suffered harassment including rape threats and hateful messages following the demonstrations.
Key Facts
The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is a youth-led group opposing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.
The movement used social media like Instagram to spread protest content such as memes and videos.
On July 20, police used tear gas and baton charges to stop protesters marching to the Indian parliament, injuring many.
Some protesters, especially women, received online abuse, including threats and doctored photos.
Abuse included “slut-shaming” and rape threats targeted mainly at women participating in the protests.
Many affected women deleted posts, locked social media accounts, and stopped responding to unknown contacts to avoid harassment.
Some incidents were reported to police and discussed in media debates.
The online abuse has caused fear and anxiety among young female protesters, affecting their safety at protests and online.
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A program in Charlotte, North Carolina, is using art activities to help reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation. This approach suggests that engaging with the arts can support emotional and social well-being instead of relying only on medicine.
Key Facts
The program is based in Charlotte, North Carolina.
It uses art as a way to fight loneliness and social isolation.
The program encourages people to participate in creative activities.
This approach is part of a larger conversation about art and health.
The idea is to use art as an alternative or supplement to medical treatments.
The topic was reported by Paul Solman.
The coverage is part of a series called CANVAS, focusing on art and health.
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Annie Jacobsen wrote a new book called "Biological War: A Scenario" about the danger of a man-made germ causing a national security crisis. Journalist Geoff Bennett talked with her on a PBS podcast about how ready the United States is to handle such biological threats.
Key Facts
Annie Jacobsen is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist.
Her book explores the possibility of a biological attack instead of traditional weapons like missiles or bombs.
The book is called "Biological War: A Scenario."
Geoff Bennett interviewed Jacobsen on the PBS podcast "Settle In."
The discussion focused on America’s preparedness for biological threats.
The topic relates to national security and potential future dangers from engineered pathogens.
The conversation aims to raise awareness about biological warfare risks.
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Six experienced Nepali mountain guides, including well-known climber Nirmal Purja, died in an avalanche on Pakistan’s Broad Peak. These guides were recognized for their extraordinary achievements on the world’s highest mountains and helped raise global respect for Nepali Sherpas. Their deaths are a major loss to Nepal’s mountaineering community.
Key Facts
Six Nepali mountain guides died in an avalanche on Broad Peak, the world’s 12th highest mountain.
Nirmal Purja, famous for climbing the 14 highest peaks in about six months, was among those killed.
Kili Pemba Sherpa had completed the "Grand Slam" by climbing all 14 eight-thousanders and helped make the first winter ascent of K2.
Pur Bahadur Gurung was one of about 100 Nepali guides certified by the International Federation of Mountain Guides Association.
The group’s achievements included climbing mountains without extra oxygen and helping disabled climbers reach Everest’s summit.
Other guides killed were Gyaljen Sherpa, Nima Sherpa, and Nawang Thindu Sherpa, each known for climbing multiple high peaks.
Nepal’s mountain guides often lead climbs in Nepal during spring and move to Pakistan’s peaks in summer monsoon season.
The deaths highlight the important role and talent of Nepali Sherpas in global mountain climbing.
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A BBC investigation found that two drugs—fenbendazole (an animal dewormer) and ivermectin (used to treat scabies)—are being sold as unproven cancer treatments in the UK. These medicines are not approved for cancer, and experts warn they could harm patients or delay proper medical care.
Key Facts
Fenbendazole is a drug for animals to remove parasites and is not licensed for human use in the UK.
Ivermectin is a prescription medicine for humans, used to treat scabies, but is not approved for cancer treatment.
A stairlift salesman in south Wales sold these drugs claiming they could shrink tumors.
The BBC undercover reporter bought fenbendazole and ivermectin from this salesman, who charged £100 for 2–3 months’ supply.
These drugs were also found for sale on Amazon but were removed after the BBC alerted the company.
Macmillan Cancer Support said there is no clinical proof these drugs fight cancer and expressed concern about vulnerable patients.
Videos and social media posts promote these drugs as cancer cures, including claims by actor Mel Gibson about his friends’ recoveries.
Doctors warn that using these unproven treatments could delay or harm standard cancer care.
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A couple staying at a Travelodge hotel in Dundee woke up to find a shirtless man in their room who claimed it was his room. The hotel admitted it did not follow its security procedures properly and apologized. This incident is part of a series of reported security problems at Travelodge hotels.
Key Facts
Kim Hutchison and Harry Grieve were staying at a Travelodge in Dundee when a man entered their room by mistake.
The man was wearing only shorts and said he believed the room was his.
The couple argued with the man for about a minute before he left.
Travelodge apologized and said their security rules were not properly followed.
Police were called to the hotel but no arrests were made in this case.
The couple received a refund and a £100 voucher from Travelodge but cut their visit short due to the incident.
Earlier in the year, a man was jailed for sexually assaulting a woman after being given her room key at a different Travelodge.
Travelodge is investigating multiple reports of strangers entering guests’ rooms.
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Large wildfires in Spokane, Washington have destroyed over 700 homes and forced more than 60,000 people to evacuate. Residents described sudden smoke, little warning, and frightening escapes as the fires grew quickly over the weekend.
Key Facts
Three wildfires swept through the Spokane area, burning over 10,000 acres.
More than 700 homes and buildings were destroyed by the fires.
Over 60,000 people had to leave their homes due to evacuations.
A suspect has been arrested on suspicion of starting the largest fire by arson.
Some residents received little or no warning before the fires reached their neighborhoods.
People reported seeing heavy smoke close to their homes and struggling to escape through thick smoke.
No deaths have been reported so far from these wildfires.
Families described the emotional impact of losing not just homes, but their personal belongings.
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The US has canceled the visa of Brazil's ambassador to Washington as relations between the two countries worsen. This move follows Brazil’s refusal to grant visas to two US officials who planned to visit Brazil, with tensions rising ahead of Brazil's elections.
Key Facts
The US revoked the visa of Brazil’s ambassador to the United States.
Brazil denied visas to two US State Department officials planned to visit in late July.
Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva accused the US officials of trying to interfere in Brazil’s elections.
The US called Brazil’s accusation “baseless.”
The visa cancellation does not mean the Brazilian ambassador must leave the US.
Brazil blocked US officials Riley M Barnes and Samuel Samson, who oversee democracy and human rights issues.
Brazil also delayed approval of President Donald Trump’s chosen US ambassador to Brazil, Daniel Perez.
Brazil’s Superior Electoral Court says the country’s electronic voting system is secure and refutes claims of fraud made by Flávio Bolsonaro.
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More than 72 migrants died while trying to enter Ceuta, a Spanish city in North Africa. Soon after, the situation became a political issue, with different groups using the event to push their messages. Experts say the consequences of this event could affect countries beyond Spain.
Key Facts
Over 72 migrants died attempting to cross into Ceuta.
Ceuta is a Spanish city located on the North African coast.
The migrant deaths quickly became a topic of political debate.
Various groups used the tragedy to support their political views.
Analysts believe the effects of the crisis may spread beyond Spain.
The event highlights ongoing challenges related to migration and borders.
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