The UK is facing severe weather conditions on New Year's Eve with 75mph gales and heavy rain prompting the Met Office to issue a yellow weather warning for wind across the southern coastline and parts of Wales. The extreme weather has already caused flooding and travel chaos, including the disruption of Eurostar services affecting 30,000 passengers. Revellers are advised to be cautious as the conditions could lead to power cuts and further travel difficulties.
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has declared a State of Emergency due to a historic heat wave that has affected parts of the state this summer. The declaration aims to support local heat relief efforts and includes the allocation of $200,000 to address heat-related exposure in specific counties. The governor has also issued an Executive Order to establish cooling centers, coordinate heat relief efforts, propose policy changes for future heat resiliency, identify resource needs, and ensure efficient use of Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funds. The heat wave, which saw Phoenix and its suburbs endure a record-breaking 31 consecutive days of temperatures above 110 degrees Fahrenheit, prompted the state of emergency.
Beijing orders employers to halt outdoor work as the city experiences scorching summer heat, with temperatures forecasted to reach 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). The government has issued a "red alert" and instructed departments to ensure the elderly and ill can stay cool. Meanwhile, flooding has displaced thousands of people in southern China, and alerts for possible flash flooding have been issued in other regions. The Earth's average temperature remains at a record high, highlighting the ongoing impact of climate change.
