Scientists warn that a strong El Niño event is developing over the Pacific Ocean and could be the strongest seen in recent times. This weather pattern can change weather conditions worldwide, including impacts expected in the UK.
Key Facts
El Niño is a natural climate pattern occurring over the Pacific Ocean.
This current El Niño is predicted to be very powerful, possibly the strongest in living memory.
It can affect weather globally, causing changes like droughts, floods, or temperature shifts.
The UK may experience weather effects because of this event.
The Met Office, the UK’s weather agency, is monitoring this event closely.
El Niño events usually happen every few years and have wide-reaching impacts.
The article features a video explaining how El Niño influences world weather.
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The United Nations Security Council is holding a second informal vote to choose who will replace Secretary-General Antonio Guterres when his term ends in December 2026. Eight candidates from different countries are competing for the job, which requires a majority of votes from the council and no veto from its five permanent members.
Key Facts
Antonio Guterres will finish his second five-year term as UN Secretary-General at the end of 2026.
The UN Security Council has 15 members, including five permanent members with veto power.
Eight candidates are running, including Rebeca Grynspan (Costa Rica), Michelle Bachelet (Chile), Rafael Mariano Grossi (Argentina), Maria Fernanda Espinosa (Ecuador), Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett (Guyana), Olara Otunnu (Uganda), Macky Sall (Senegal), and Ivonne A-Baki (Ecuador).
Rebeca Grynspan was the front-runner after the first informal straw poll.
Candidates need at least nine votes on the Security Council to move forward and must avoid a veto by any permanent member.
Rebeca Grynspan previously brokered a deal allowing grain exports from the Black Sea during the Russia-Ukraine war.
Michelle Bachelet is Chile’s former president and former UN human rights chief, supported by Mexico and Brazil but criticized by some countries and the U.S.
Rafael Mariano Grossi leads the UN nuclear watchdog and is involved in issues related to Iran’s nuclear program and the situation in Ukraine.
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President Donald Trump’s administration is increasing economic sanctions against Iran, targeting its financial network particularly through Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Dubai serves as a major hub for Iran’s foreign currency transactions, and the U.S. is working with the UAE to cut off Iran’s access to funds from oil sales, especially to China.
Key Facts
President Trump threatened tough economic action against Iran with the "toughest sanctions in history."
About 80% of Iran’s foreign currency exchange happens in Dubai, making the city key to Iran’s economy.
Iran uses Dubai to move money from oil sales to China and to support imports from China.
The U.S. Treasury has targeted shell companies in Dubai that help Iran access oil sale revenues.
Iran’s Shahr Bank, linked to its military group, used Dubai currency exchange firms for money laundering.
The UAE announced it has halted all trade and financial dealings with Iran until further notice.
Iran reportedly launched two missiles at the UAE and attacked an oil company vessel near the Strait of Hormuz.
The U.S. naval blockade and sanctions have severely damaged Iran’s economy, according to a Trump administration official.
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Millions of people in Cuba are facing water shortages because of an ongoing oil crisis. A U.S. oil blockade started by President Trump has caused more power outages and reduced access to running water for many Cubans.
Key Facts
The oil blockade against Cuba began in January 2026 and has lasted seven months.
The blockade was imposed by the Trump administration.
Power outages in Cuba have increased due to this oil crisis.
In August 2025, 2.6 million Cubans had trouble getting water.
Now, about 3.5 million people in Cuba face water access problems.
This number represents roughly one-third of Cuba’s population.
The Cuban Institute of Hydraulic Resources provided the water access figures.
Health risks are growing as a result of the water shortages and power outages.
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In Japan, farmers are shifting their work hours to nighttime because the summer heat during the day has become too dangerous. This change started after a worker got heatstroke while picking sunflowers, leading others to work under artificial lights or in early hours.
Key Facts
Japanese farmers face extremely hot summer days that make daytime work risky.
A flower farmer near Tokyo now harvests flowers at night using greenhouse lights.
One worker had heatstroke three summers ago, prompting changes in work schedules.
A poultry farmer wakes his chickens at 2:30 a.m. to avoid the heat.
These changes help farmers stay safe while continuing their work during hot weather.
The shift to nocturnal schedules is a direct response to rising temperatures and climate effects in Japan.
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Researchers tested a new treatment for a certain type of breast cancer that does not use chemotherapy. This treatment combined four targeted drugs and showed promising results in patients with a specific aggressive breast cancer type.
Key Facts
The study involved patients with metastatic breast cancer that is both HER2-positive and hormone receptor (HR) positive.
HER2-positive breast cancer grows faster due to a specific protein, while HR-positive cancer needs hormones like estrogen or progesterone to grow.
The treatment combined anastrozole, palbociclib, trastuzumab, and pertuzumab as a first treatment option.
Scientists aimed to reduce the use of chemotherapy to lower side effects while keeping treatment effective.
97% of patients benefited during the first six months, and after about three years, 93% were still alive.
Some patients had long-lasting responses, with one on the treatment for over six years.
Side effects included low white blood cell counts, diarrhea, and anemia, but only one patient stopped treatment due to side effects.
This study was small and more research with larger groups is needed to confirm results.
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Princess Eugenie’s daughter, Adelaide Elizabeth Annina, has been added to the British royal line of succession as 15th in line to the throne. Meanwhile, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle plan to move back to the UK with their children but will not resume official royal duties.
Key Facts
Adelaide Brooksbank was born on August 3 in Lisbon, Portugal, weighing 6 pounds, 9 ounces.
Adelaide is placed 15th in line to the British throne, right after her older brothers August and Ernest.
Her birth moved Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, and those below him down one place in the line of succession.
Princess Eugenie named her daughter in honor of three people, including Queen Elizabeth II, her great-grandmother.
Princess Eugenie's father, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, remains 8th in line despite losing royal titles.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle plan to return to the UK with their children, Archie and Lilibet, after living in California.
Archie and Lilibet will attend British schools starting in September.
Harry and Meghan will remain private individuals and non-working members of the royal family.
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German authorities found a hidden supply of guns and ammo near Berlin that they believe was meant for attacks. A suspect linked to this weapons stash was arrested in Romania, and officials are investigating possible involvement by foreign intelligence agencies.
Key Facts
The weapons cache was discovered near Berlin in October last year.
It contained two handguns and ammunition.
German federal prosecutors have opened an investigation into the find.
A suspect connected to the weapons was arrested in Romania.
The suspect reportedly had attack plans.
German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said foreign powers’ involvement is being investigated.
The case involves concerns about a serious crime that could threaten the state.
German and Romanian authorities are cooperating but have given limited details publicly.
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Israel’s military announced it will investigate the killing of 5-year-old Palestinian girl Hind Rajab and her family, who were shot in Gaza City in January 2024. Hind’s mother wants an independent investigation, doubting the military’s inquiry will bring justice.
Key Facts
Hind Rajab, a 5-year-old Palestinian girl, was killed in Gaza City after Israeli forces fired at her family’s car in January 2024.
The car had six people inside, all of whom died, along with two Palestinian paramedics sent to help.
The Israeli military admitted to firing at the car and ambulance and announced a criminal investigation into the incident in August 2026.
Hind’s mother, Wesam Hamada, requests an independent inquiry, saying the military’s investigation is not enough.
Recordings of Hind’s calls for help to emergency dispatchers became widely known and highlighted the tragedy.
The Palestinian Red Crescent Society doubts the Israeli investigation will be fair or deliver justice.
Hind and her relatives were found dead 12 days after the attack, and the paramedics and their ambulance were also found destroyed nearby.
The incident has drawn international attention and outcry, partly through a film nominated for an Oscar that included the recordings of Hind’s calls.
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Vice President JD Vance said that the conflict with Iran has moved into a new stage focused on economic pressure. This change came after President Donald Trump started a set of economic actions targeting Tehran.
Key Facts
Vice President JD Vance spoke about the situation with Iran.
He described the conflict as entering a "new phase."
This new phase focuses on economic pressure against Iran.
President Donald Trump launched several economic actions targeting Tehran.
The comments were covered by CBS News with further analysis from Aaron MacLean.
The situation involves efforts to use economic means rather than military action.
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On August 20, 2026, multiple waterspouts and a tornado struck Long Island and Queens, New York, causing damage to beach clubs and injuring one person. A state of emergency was declared in Nassau County as officials continue to assess the tornado’s impact.
Key Facts
Two waterspouts were confirmed in Queens and Long Island on the evening of August 20, 2026.
One waterspout moved ashore as a tornado, causing damage in Atlantic Beach and southern Nassau County.
The tornado damaged or destroyed 30 one-story cabanas at the Sun and Surf Beach Club.
One employee was injured but refused medical aid; no other injuries were reported.
Nassau County declared a state of emergency after the tornado.
Nearby Silver Point Beach Club also suffered property damage.
Emergency responders helped rescue people trapped in vehicles due to flooding on Long Island’s south shore.
Severe storms also caused tornado damage in Dover, Delaware, leading to a state of emergency there as well.
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Russian missile attacks have caused many civilian deaths in Ukrainian cities, as Ukraine no longer has enough Patriot missiles to stop them. Ukraine has responded by targeting Russian fuel supplies and military equipment, which has hurt Russia’s economy and military operations.
Key Facts
Russian missiles have killed dozens of civilians in multiple Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv and Zhytomyr.
Civilian deaths in Ukraine from Russian attacks reached a record 437 in July, with thousands injured.
Ukraine’s Patriot missile defense system is depleted, allowing more Russian ballistic missiles to reach targets.
Russia used additional ballistic missiles, including weapons reportedly from North Korea.
Ukraine launched strikes on Russian fuel and ammunition supplies, making gains on the battlefield.
Ukrainian forces have disabled many Russian supply ships and destroyed power and communication infrastructure in Crimea.
Ukraine hit a Russian rocket engine workshop 800 km from Moscow, damaging facilities supporting satellite launches.
Russian satellites are important for guiding their military fire, and losing them affects Russia’s war efforts.
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Firebombs were thrown at luxury cars outside a wedding venue in Birmingham, England, setting two cars on fire and causing guests to run for safety. Police and firefighters responded, no one was injured, and an investigation is ongoing.
Key Facts
The incident took place at the Royal Shalimar wedding venue in Sparkbrook, Birmingham, around 8:30 pm on Wednesday.
Three firebombs were thrown toward the venue entrance and the parked cars.
Two luxury cars, a Lamborghini and a McLaren, caught fire.
Three men dressed in black were seen leaving the scene in a white Volkswagen Golf.
Firefighters put out the fires; no people were trapped or hurt.
The venue said safety was their top priority and thanked emergency services.
Police are reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses.
Authorities ask anyone with information to contact them via their website or phone.
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Hayden Panettiere's mother has spoken publicly about their difficult relationship following the actor's sudden death. This discussion happened around the time of what would have been Panettiere's 37th birthday. The skincare brand Neutrogena also shared remarks about their association with the late actress.
Key Facts
Hayden Panettiere, an actor, has passed away unexpectedly.
Her mother has now talked about their troubled relationship.
This discussion coincides with what would have been Panettiere's 37th birthday.
Neutrogena, a skincare company, commented on working with Panettiere.
The news was reported by CBS News.
The article mentions the availability of more coverage in the CBS News app.
Details about the cause of death or further family statements were not included.
The focus is on family reactions and brand statements after her death.
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Japan’s justice ministry ended its partnership with Netflix’s dating show "Badly in Love" after public criticism over the show’s focus on young people with criminal pasts. The ministry said the show does not support crime but decided to stop collaborating because many people felt uncomfortable with how the show portrayed past crimes.
Key Facts
The justice ministry in Japan had a campaign featuring Netflix’s dating show "Badly in Love," which includes participants with past criminal behavior.
The show features young people who were once involved in gangs or criminal activities, living together to find love.
Netflix reported that the show is popular in Japan and other Asian countries like South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.
Critics said the show seemed to praise or make light of crimes, causing discomfort for crime victims.
The ministry originally supported the show for showing personal growth and chances to change one’s life.
One controversial episode showed a participant admitting to a dangerous crime as a teen.
The ministry clarified that cancelling the partnership does not mean it opposes rehabilitation efforts for former offenders.
The show’s producers said they tried to show the participants as young people with struggles, not to justify past violence.
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Several people were hurt after a sword attack at Brinell School in Fagersta, Sweden. Police arrested one man and said there is no current danger to the public.
Key Facts
The attack happened at around 14:00 local time on Friday at a high school in central Sweden.
Police arrested one suspect and may have shot him in the leg.
The local council did not announce how many people were injured.
Eight other nearby schools were put on lockdown for safety.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson called the event a serious incident and said police are investigating.
Sweden has had several attacks on schools in recent years, including a deadly mass shooting in 2025.
Previous attacks included a sword attack in 2015 and a violent attack in 2022 that killed two teachers.
After the 2025 shooting, the government tightened gun laws because the shooter legally owned rifles.
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A 17-year-old Palestinian was killed by Israeli settlers after a rock-throwing incident in the occupied West Bank. Turkey is seeking an international arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for his involvement in stopping boats trying to break a naval blockade of Gaza. Lebanon's recent economic growth has ended due to the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
Key Facts
A Palestinian teenager, Karim Sanad Raja Shalaldeh, was killed by Israeli settlers in Sa’ir, north of Hebron.
Another man was wounded by Israeli settler gunfire during the same incident.
An Israeli official said soldiers responded after Palestinians threw rocks at Israeli civilians; some Israelis were injured.
A 58-year-old Palestinian named Fathi Khazem was fatally shot by Israeli forces in Jenin during an operation; he reportedly tried to stab a soldier.
The West Bank has seen escalating violence, with around 87 Palestinians killed in about 1,500 attacks this year.
Turkey has requested an international arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu over the interception of ships trying to break the Gaza naval blockade.
The Turkish court charges include genocide, crimes against humanity, torture, unlawful detention, and hijacking related to the May naval interception.
Lebanon’s economy has declined following the recent war between Israel and Hezbollah.
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Tornadoes hit Dover, Delaware, and Long Island, New York, causing damage and flooding. Cleanup and rescue efforts are ongoing, but no serious injuries have been reported.
Key Facts
A tornado was reported in Dover, Delaware, damaging buildings and blowing off a motel roof.
A tornado touched down on Long Island’s Atlantic Beach, starting as a waterspout over the Atlantic Ocean.
Emergency teams rescued dozens of people stranded in cars during flash floods in Jersey City, New Jersey.
Flooding caused part of the Long Island Expressway in Queens to shut down temporarily.
Officials are assessing the damage and cleaning up debris in the affected areas.
Dover lifted its state of emergency to let residents and businesses return to normal.
Police warned of blocked roads and urged people to allow extra travel time.
Rescues in Jersey City used inflatable boats to reach people trapped by floodwaters.
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In a small village in Iraq’s Kurdistan region, solar panels and batteries now provide steady electricity, replacing unreliable power from generators. This change helps farmers store crops, irrigate land, and run their farms more efficiently, showing how energy projects work best when local people are trained to manage them and use power to support their communities.
Key Facts
Kulak is a farming village in Iraq’s Kurdistan region that had an erratic power supply for years.
The village now uses solar panels and batteries to get electricity all day and night.
Reliable power keeps water pumps running and allows farmers to store crops in cold storage.
The solar project includes local training so residents can operate and maintain the systems themselves.
Iraq is vulnerable to climate change, with droughts and extreme heat affecting farmland.
Many rural areas in Iraq face daily power cuts despite the country’s oil production.
Decentralized solar power is seen as a long-term solution, not just a temporary fix.
The success of energy projects depends on local skills and managing power for community needs, not just installing equipment.
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