UK News
View All 9Britons ordered to stop digging big holes at the beach over 'risk of death' during summer holidays
Britons heading to the beach for the summer holidays have been ordered not to dig any big holes over a "risk of death".Police have interevened to warn beachgoers not to burrow down deeper than knee level as the results could be dire.People or pets could become trapped in the sand, they added, branding large holes in the sand "death traps".In a statement on Monday, Skegness Police said: "Digging on the beach is part of the fun, but large, deep holes in soft sand can be incredibly dangerous."A hole can collapse without warning, trapping anyone inside under heavy sand in seconds." TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Even "fit and healthy adults" can find themselves buried and unable to free themselves, police cautioned, advising the public to "keep holes shallow".The warning comes after a huge hole was found on the beach at Skegness in Lincolnshire on Saturday.Police shared images of the chasm online.It measured roughly three to four feet across and between 12 and 15 feet deep.HM Coastguard Skegness said: "Whoever dug this hole was incredibly lucky that it didn't collapse in on them."Sand is surprisingly heavy and can give way without warning, especially in deep holes."Like police, the coastguard also stressed that such a collapse could leave someone buried beneath the sand, potentially causing serious injury or death.They added: "Deep holes can also be a hazard to other beach users who may not see them."BEACH WARNINGS - READ MORE:Man dies after getting into difficulty at Essex beach as emergency services rush to sceneIconic British beach considers using water cannons after surge in tourist fires and BBQs'Do not touch!' British beachgoers issued warning over 'beautiful' blue sea creaturesOfficers warned that big holes can ensnare children and adults enjoying the beach - as well as emergency responders if they're needed on the sand.They said: "What takes minutes to dig can take seconds to turn tragic."Police also ordered amateur diggers to fill in any holes before leaving the beach to keep the area safe for others.This is not the first time beachgoers in Lincolnshire have created problems on the coast.Last year, three coastguards were forced to fill in a more than two-metre-deep hole on Sandilands Beach.In April, visitors to the popular seaside resort of Cleethorpes were also cautioned against digging in wet sand because of the "avalanche effect".Coastguard deputy station manager Shaun Lee explained that sand can keep "collapsing" and end up burying people."We don't want to be the fun police just be aware of what you are doing if you are digging holes," he said.Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
France admits there's 'no limit' to mega-dinghy migrants while French police stand and watch boats launch
There is "no limit" to the number of migrants who pile onto infamous "mega-dinghies", the French lifeboat service has warned after yesterday's record-breaking crossing.France and Britain alike were left shocked on Monday morning after GB News revealed a 230-strong "small" boat had crossed the Channel.The vessel carried more people than a Boeing 737 and was larger than a London bus.Each passenger is believed to cost taxpayers as much as £106,000 in immediate pressures alone, meaning the "mega-dinghy" could leave the Home Office with a near-£25million bill. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Jean-Marc Lamblin, the director of the SNSM - France's equivalent to the RNLI - said: "For the past three months, we've been seeing more and more 15-metre boats."We recently passed the record of 150. We didn't think there could be more, but there really seems to be no limit anymore."But Mr Lamblin confirmed his boats had ferried the migrants across into British waters from Berck-sur-Mer, over 40 miles south of Calais and more than 90 from Dover.Chris Philp, the Shadow Home Secretary, said French authorities should have stopped the massive dinghy in the first place."This is now beyond a joke," he said. "The French authorities could easily have stopped a vessel this size from embarking in shallow waters."I recently saw for myself French Gendarmes standing by and doing nothing while illegal immigrants boarded in knee-deep water."Shabana Mahmood is handing over £660million of our money while this happens. It's a disgrace."French police have in the past admitted they have orders to do nothing when migrants attempt to cross the Channel.Monday's mega-dinghy raised the rising average number of illegal migrants per boat even further.Just days ago, that figure stood at 72 - a tenfold increase in just eight years - but it has now shot up.Migrants typically pay around £2,000 each for a Channel crossing, meaning Monday's boat could generate more than £500,000 in revenue before costs for people-smuggling gangs.And yesterday No10 warned of how the chaos showed "the reality behind the ruthless smuggling gangs that are prepared to risk human lives for profit"."That's exactly why the Government has signed a new payment-by-results deal with the French to prevent these perilous journeys from happening in the first place," the Prime Minister's official spokesman said."As the Prime Minister has said, we're not complacent and we are bearing down on these crossings, and that's reflected in the joint action that’s prevented 47,000 attempted crossings since the election."Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, however, said the numbers of people crossing in small boats "are down but they're still horrendous".Many of the mega-dinghies used for Channel crossings are made in China, before being shipped via Turkey or Bulgaria to European "staging posts", mainly in Germany.Smugglers store and distribute them from the staging posts, just a few hours' drive from the beaches of France.The Home Office has previously identified Chinese websites as a key source of both boats and parts - and has been working with Beijing to try to disrupt the supply chain.A National Crime Agency source told The Telegraph that China was "likely to be one of the countries but not the only country" from which smugglers buy their gear.Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott, the only man to successfully "stop the boats", told GB News the simple way the crossings could be prevented.Last autumn, Mr Abbott told The People's Channel how his border officials put illegal migrants "on unsinkable orange lifeboats with just enough fuel to make it back to Java and said: 'That's the way to go. See you later.'"Once you're paying the people smugglers for a journey to nowhere, the game is up," he added, admitting that the tactic has "quite a lot of instructive lessons for Britain right now.""The French wouldn't like it, of course, but frankly, I think it's an unfriendly act not cracking down on these people smuggling gangs operating out of northern France," he said. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
The best little white dresses to shop now from M&S, Next, Nobody’s Child and more
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more Whilst this panel dress from Tu might seem plain, it allows for huge styling potential. Firstly, the silhouette has a slight A-line shape to balance with your shoulders. The soft scoop neckline creates a casual yet lovely frame to your neck. But throw on a belt or even a satin scarf around the waist to cinch it in, and layer up multiple gold bangles with heels to make it the ultimate little white dress for events. As we previously said, despite them still being referred to as a Little White Dress, the hemline doesn’t matter; it’s more the vibe, and this M&S option ticks all of the boxes. It’s floaty, easy, and speaks for itself with the delicate embroidered details and playful ruffle hem. The slim straps and scoop neckline help to create an elegant edge, making it perfect for a variety of occasions. You might think long sleeves on a short dress might be an odd combination, but it actually makes for a super flattering design. Because the hemline is short, that means a lot of leg is on show. But, , it actually makes your legs look even longer, and that’s never a bad thing. The dress is elevated with silver mirrored hardware buttons, a smart collar, and waist pleats to show off your natural waistline. Puff sleeves are always a recipe for success in our opinion. They add a flare of drama to the outfit without overdoing it. These paired with the short scalloped hemline make this New Look number brilliant for both daytime soirees and evening nights out. We particularly love the embroidered cutwork and defined waist that nips you in. We may have just found the ultimate dress for summer holidays. The light flutter sleeves add a romantic boho feel, whilst the square necking is a universally flattering cut that frames your décolletage. The dress is finished off with an adjustable tie waist for you to decide the fit. This is one of those looks that you’ll be reaching for again and again. Wear it for sightseeing or sunset dinners with a quick swap of accessories. Broderie anglaise and summer go hand in hand, so it’s no wonder it’s a popular design feature on many dresses for the season.
Hundreds in London flats left without regular running water since last year
Langmead House in Tower Hamlets, where residents have been affected . Photograph: Alicia Canter/The Guardian View image in fullscreen Langmead House in Tower Hamlets, where residents have been affected . Photograph: Alicia Canter/The Guardian Hundreds in London flats left without regular running water since last year Supply in nine blocks in Tower Hamlets affected with some residents suspecting nearby building developments They cannot even flush their toilets: life in east London blocks where taps often run dry Hundreds of residents in blocks of flats in east London have been left without regular running water for more than seven months after development in the area may have left it without an adequate supply. Taps have been running dry in nine blocks in Tower Hamlets, where residents have been forced to use bottled water while their landlord, the housing association Poplar Harca, delayed works to solve the problem. In the meantime, hundreds of families have been unable to properly cook, clean, wash or even flush their toilets. Residents, who are bracing for a fifth heatwave this week, say they are still in the dark about why their water suddenly stopped – although some suspect it is because of new housing developments built nearby. “I’m appalled at the situation my constituents find themselves in,” said Uma Kumaran, the area’s Labour MP. “Access to water is a basic right, yet residents of Devons Road estate have been denied that right for far too long. It’s a gross failure of one of the most fundamental duties a landlord owes to their tenants – especially during record-breaking heatwaves. View image in fullscreen Bottles of water in one resident’s flat, ready for the next outage. Photograph: Alicia Canter/The Guardian“I have repeatedly pushed Poplar Harca to take urgent action, full accountability, and set out a clear and swift timetable for repairs, for all buildings. Residents deserve nothing less than an urgent and permanent fix.” Poplar Harca acknowledges “pressure levels can fluctuate” but denies the water supply has ever stopped completely. Residents who spoke to the Guardian said they first began experiencing water shortages last summer. By December, the problems had become widespread, with at least nine blocks affected. In correspondence with residents, seen , Poplar Harca initially claimed the problem lay with the water supplier. The housing association claimed Thames Water was supplying “lower flow pressures than in previous years”. A map of the nine blocks without a regular supply of running water.
World News
View All 10Trump Said to Have Secretly Used Military Jet to Leave Turkey Amid Threats
President Trump hid in an airport catering container and was taken to a military jet for a secret flight out of country after the NATO summit last month.
China’s Hunger Games
A supermarket in Beijing, October 2024 Florence Lo / Reuters Caitlin Welsh is Director of the Global Food and Water Security Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. She served as Director for Global Economic Engagement at the National Security Council, and Acting Director of the U. Department of State’s Office of Global Food Security. Brian Hart is Deputy Director and Fellow of the China Power Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Share & Download Print unlock this feature or Sign in. Save Sign in and save to read later Copy This is a subscriber-only feature. or Sign in. Chicago MLA APSA APA Chicago Cite not available at the moment MLA Cite not available at the moment APSA Cite not available at the moment APA Cite not available at the moment Request reprint permissions here. Given this dark history, Beijing has long sought to shore up the national food supply, and in recent decades has made enormous gains in its ability to feed its population. Economic reforms launched 1970s ushered in market-oriented policies that ended the food rationing system and provided new incentives to increase agricultural yields. The transition from collective production to a “household responsibility system” brought about rapid marketization and shifting dietary patterns, and China’s accession to the World Trade Organization in 2001 flung open the doors of China’s economy to global food and agriculture trade. China also put in place several regulations to promote and protect agricultural production and manage consumption. In 1996, for instance, the government called for a self-sufficiency rate of 95 percent for staple grains, and in 2006 it established a minimum threshold of farmland that must remain in agricultural use. Under Xi, these efforts have intensified. Chinese state media is replete with stories of a young Xi experiencing hunger as one of Mao’s “sent down” youths during the tumultuous years of the Cultural Revolution. Xi’s own mother even turned him in when he escaped his school one night to beg for food. As a young official in the CCP, Xi then traveled to Iowa in 1985 as part of an agricultural delegation from Hebei Province and returned to Iowa as China’s vice president in 2012, famously impressed by advanced U. Soon after rising to power in 2013, Xi emphasized that “feeding the people has always mattered most in national governance” in a speech on China’s food security. As such, he has overseen a continuous effort to achieve food self-reliance.
The Path to Development in a Post-Aid World
At a World Food Programme distribution center in Dikwa, Nigeria, August 2025 Sodiq Adelakun / Reuters EGHOSA E. OSAGHAE is Director General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs. This essay emerged from the Lloyd George Study Group on Global Governance. Osaghae Share & Download Print unlock this feature or Sign in. Save Sign in and save to read later Copy This is a subscriber-only feature. or Sign in. Chicago MLA APSA APA Chicago Cite not available at the moment MLA Cite not available at the moment APSA Cite not available at the moment APA Cite not available at the moment Request reprint permissions here. Western donors are not the only game in town. China, India, and Russia also provide assistance to weaker states, and they are increasingly positioning themselves as alternative sources. Although China is the only one to have increased its development spending—aid —all three have seen demand for new partnerships and have thus expanded their presence in Africa and the global South. The New Development Bank, which is seeded by China, India, and Russia along with other countries in the BRICS consortium, is mobilizing resources for infrastructure and sustainable development in emerging markets and developing countries. Beijing and Moscow are also leading an effort to de-dollarize the international economy—or to make it easier to trade without relying on the United States’ currency—which could help developing states reduce their geopolitical exposure. Weaker states’ reliance on the dollar has not only constrained trade and investment options, including intra-regional trade, but has also rendered them easy prey for unfavorable tariffs. But relying on these countries has serious drawbacks. For starters, there are limits to their generosity. India’s and Russia’s aid budgets remain fixed despite growing demand. China’s budget has expanded, but Beijing rarely offers cash donations or Western-style grants. Instead, the main vehicle of Chinese assistance is the Belt and Road Initiative, which arrives in the form of loans, construction contracts, and state-backed commercial activities. Chinese funds are also doled out on an ad-hoc basis with little transparency. They typically don’t focus on advancing human rights or improve state capacity. In fact, they often leave recipients mired in debt and thus beholden to Chinese interests. China’s aid practices are hardly unique. India also operates largely through instrumental loans, mostly in exchange for access to recipients’ natural resources (or in exchange for deals that open their markets to Indian companies).
President Trump warns FIFA will pay a massive price if it ousts chief Gianni Infantino
close Video DiJonai Carrington's "White Privilege" Accusation Is Asinine | Don't @ Me w/ Dan Dakich DiJonai Carrington went to Threads to claim "white privilege" following her takedown flagrant foul of Sophie Cunningham despite her intentionally clotheslining her in the face. President Donald Trump is handing out a big red card to FIFA’s bosses, warning soccer’s top execs they’d be out of their minds to dump embattled president Gianni Infantino. Taking to Truth Social, Trump went to bat for Infantino, who faces an all-out revolt from global soccer leaders after a disastrous scheme to sell off a chunk of the men’s World Cup to private equity investors. "FIFA would be making a terrible mistake if, for any reason, they even considered replacing President Gianni Infantino," Trump posted. TRUMP ADMIN TAUNTS LEFT FOR ‘PRAYING’ FOR WORLD CUP DISASTER AS DOT TOUTS RECORD NUMBERS "He is fantastic, having just presided over the most successful World Cup, , ever presented. If he is gone, it will never be as successful or profitable again!" Trump has is on the money concerning, well, the money. US President Donald Trump and FIFA president (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) Gianni Infantino talk in the Oval office of the White House after signing an executive order for a task force related to the FIFA World Cup, in Washington, DC, on March 7, 2025 (Jim WATSON / AFP) President Donald Trump speaks alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino at a FIFA reception at Trump Tower in New York City on July 17, 2026. (Andrew Harnik/Reuters) The 2026 World Cup across America was a total monster as it packed stadiums and smashed revenue records. Say what you want, but nobody puts on a sports spectacle quite like the USA. Yet the president's defense comes as Infantino’s internal trouble reaches a boiling point. EUROPEAN SOCCER'S GOVERNING BODY FLIPS SPORT UPSIDE DOWN WITH BOYCOTT OF FIFA, FUTURE WORLD CUPS The Swiss-Italian soccer boss ignited a firestorm by proposing a commercial entity dubbed FIFA Forward Enterprise, which would sell private investors a 20% stake in World Cup commercial rights for a $4.2 billion payday. For that, Infantino got slammed. Soccer's power brokers wanted no part of it. Leaders across Europe, Asia and North America rejected the deal, accusing Infantino of trying to quietly sell off the sport's crown jewels. He quickly scrapped the proposal and apologized, but the revolt was already rolling. UEFA, the AFC and CONCACAF then unloaded on the FIFA boss, accusing him of deception and abandoning his duty.
Politics
View All 10American Medical Association criticizes Trump executive order on childhood vaccine schedule
The president of the American Medical Association on Monday said President Trump’s new recommendations on childhood immunizations put “children’s health at risk,” joining the chorus of medical experts criticizing the executive order. “Vaccines are among the most thoroughly studied, effective tools we have to protect children from serious vaccine-preventable diseases,” Dr. Willie Underwood III said…
Judge deals blow to Mamdani plan to tax second homes
A judge in Staten Island, N.Y., temporarily blocked New York City Zohran Mamdani’s (D) rollout of a new tax on second homes worth more than $5 million, according to multiple reports. The ruling from Judge Wayne Ozzi, a Democrat on the state’s Supreme Court, required the city to take down a public list of 900,000-plus…
Councils to get more powers to stop vape and betting shops, PM announces
New vape shops will require planning permission and councils will get more powers to stop betting shops, under government plans aimed at improving high streets. Prime Minister Andy Burnham said town centres had been "hollowed out" "for many people, the high streets they grew up with have become unrecognisable". BBC News has exposed organised crime on high streets across the country, revealing shops selling illegal cigarettes and vapes, selling cannabis and cocaine, enabling illegal working and suspected money-laundering. The Conservatives and Reform said the proposals would lead to "more empty" shops, without tax relief for other small businesses. Burnham said the measures will give councils more power to control what businesses open in town centres. The proposals come as the prime minister embarks on a tour of the UK, with Downing Street saying he will be in "listening mode" during his visits as he works on a "10-year plan to bring back hope". Burnham said "the rise of vape shops, betting shops and rogue operators have replaced the shops, services, and community spaces that people are crying out for". He added: "That's not on. I said we would improve Britain's high streets, and that's exactly what we are starting to do. "We're putting communities back in control and giving local people a real say over what opens on their high street." In response to the announcement, Conservative shadow communities secretary Sir James Cleverly said "once-treasured shops" have been replaced by a "smattering of rogue operators". But Sir James said increases to business rates "empty units for whoever is left standing to fill". He said: "Unless the government takes steps to support the high streets and hard-working businesses, Labour's increases in planning regulation will just mean more empty and boarded up shops." For the Liberal Democrats, home affairs spokesman Max Wilkinson said Burnham's plan "could go up in a puff of smoke" unless he toughens up powers to "properly crack down on cowboy vape shops and dodgy operators". His calls included asking the prime minister to scrap the business rates system. Reform UK economy spokesman Robert Jenrick said: "Until this government scraps the jobs tax, addresses sky-high business rates and provides real, fundamental support for high street businesses, this policy will only create even more empty shops on our high streets." A Green Party spokesperson said the government's proposals "look like more inadequate tinkering and reannouncements". They called on the prime minister to "go further and allow councils to introduce rent controls for small businesses".
What could Andy Burnham do to block early release of PC Andrew Harper’s killers?
Public anger is mounting over the possible early release of his killers. Photograph: Family Handout/PA View image in fullscreen Andrew Harper. Public anger is mounting over the possible early release of his killers. Photograph: Family Handout/PA Explainer What could Andy Burnham do to block early release of PC Andrew Harper’s killers? Outcry against policy is seen as PM’s first big test since taking over at No 10, but his options are limited PM urged not to change scheme to stop PC Andrew Harper killers’ early release Andy Burnham is said to be exploring “every option” to block the early release from prison of the killers of PC Andrew Harper under plans to alleviate the prison overcrowding crisis, amid public concern that they could be back on the streets next year. As he faces what is being seen as his first big test since becoming prime minister, what are his options? Why will Andrew Harper’s killers be eligible for release? Under the government’s plans to tackle prison overcrowding, via the Sentencing Act, prisoners serving sentences of four years or more for some serious violent or sexual offences will be eligible for release at the halfway point of their term, rather than at two-thirds as had previously been the case. This would apply to Albert Bowers and Jessie Cole, two of Harper’s killers, who were jailed for 13 years in 2020 for manslaughter. Henry Long, the main perpetrator, who was jailed for 16 years, will not be subject to early release. After a public outcry, Burnham excluded rapists, child sexual abusers and groomers from the early release scheme, which he also put back a month to October, but criminals convicted of manslaughter were not excluded. The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 introduced mandatory life sentences for offenders convicted of the manslaughter of emergency workers on duty but, as is normal, it does not apply retrospectively. Why did Burnham not exclude people convicted of manslaughter? The prime minister initially said he wanted to “go further” with exemptions from the prison release scheme but that it was “not possible without the prison system reaching capacity and collapsing”. There are about 950 people currently in jail for manslaughter. Although not all would be eligible for early release and they would not all be freed simultaneously, every prison space is precious given that official predictions suggest that the prison system will be full .
Business
View All 10Nick Blair seeks funding for defence tech start-up
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Hormuz Deadlock: Where oil prices could head next as prospects for an imminent deal fade
Livestream Menu Oil price gains remained in check on Monday, even after Washington's latest hints of an imminent U. S.-Iran deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz failed to deliver. Market moves won't be so "benign" if the current deadlock runs into next week, Jefferies economist Modupe Adegbembo told CNBC. Factors such as China's rising crude imports and Houthi attacks on Saudi infrastructure could also push prices higher if the Strait remains closed. A view of commercial cargo vessels and crude oil tankers are anchored in the Gulf of Oman, off the coast of Muscat, Oman, on June 21, 2026, as they prepare to transit through the critical Strait of Hormuz. Shady Alassar | Anadolu | Oil prices remain below their recent peaks even as prospects for a quick reopening of the Strait of Hormuz fade, a disconnect analysts warn may not last. Brent crude futures ended last week down more than 7% following signals from Washington that an agreement with Tehran to unblock the vital maritime chokepoint was in sight. An agreement is yet to materialize, with prospects for a deal appearing to deteriorate over the weekend. Tehran is now adamant that Washington must adhere to several conditions before the strait can reopen. President Donald Trump, meanwhile, has signaled a shift in strategy, telling news outlet Axios on Sunday that Washington was "low-keying it" and hinting the administration would rely on mounting economic pressure on Tehran rather than immediate fresh military strikes. International benchmark Brent crude was closing in on $88 a barrel in early trading on Tuesday, up from around $83 at the end of last week. That rise still leaves prices well below last month's surge above $100 a barrel and the peak above $110 recorded in May. Why analysts think crude oil prices could rise further Energy markets drew short-term confidence from indications that negotiations between Iran and Oman over a temporary shipping route through the strait are continuing, alongside expectations that near-term military escalation between the U. S. and Iran may be held in check. This would be consistent with much higher prices, possibly in the region of $120-140 per barrel based on historical form." There are mounting questions over how long wider market factors — such as alternative export routes bypassing the strait, lower demand, a surge in production and a temporary slump in Chinese oil imports — can continue to cushion against supply shortfalls. China "singlehandedly balanced the market in May with its cut-back in [oil] imports," Amrita Sen, founder and director of research at consultancy Energy Aspects, told CNBC's "Morning Call" on Friday.
FirstFT: EU border checks double waiting times
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What will Warsh do to favour Main Street over Wall Street?
Evidence is mounting that the divide is rather more difficult to fix than the new Federal Reserve chair had thought
Technology
View All 10Meta Quest Promo Codes and Coupons for August 2026
Save StorySave this story Save StorySave this story Courtesy of Meta Save to wishlistSave to wishlist Meta Quest 3 Courtesy of Meta Save to wishlistSave to wishlist Meta Quest 3S Get $50 Off the Meta Quest 3 With Today’s Promos There are two virtual reality headset models to choose from: Quest 3 and Quest 3S. The more budget-friendly of the two is the Meta Quest 3S (8/10, WIRED Review). It has a slightly lower resolution screen, and the pass-through isn’t as sharp, but most people will be happy with it. It’s currently marked down $50, taking the price as low as $250. If you want to spend those savings accessorizing, some of the extra add-ons are marked down by 20%. I’d recommend picking up the Elite Strap with a battery, which will improve the comfort and make up for the limited battery life. If you're looking for an extra game to go with your new headset, you can also use our links to score $30 in Quest Cash with the purchase of a new Quest 3 or Quest 3S headset. You can use that Quest Cash in the store to buy games or apps, and it’s good for DLC as well, if you want to pick up some extra courses for Walkabout Mini Golf, for example, one of my favorite games. You’ll get the cash for your account once you’ve activated the device—make sure to buy the Quest 3, or use this link for the Quest 3S. As a frequent Quest 3 user, a Quest+ subscription has been well worth the price. You typically get access to at least two free games every month, yours to play as long as you claim them during the month and keep your subscription active. There are a ton of games in the included library too, and regular discounts on DLC and big releases. If you pick up a Quest 3 bundle, you can score three months of Quest+, plus Batman: Arkham Shadow, one of the best single player immersive story games for the platform. That gives you a chance to try tons of games and titles, and is a great place to start diving into virtual reality head first. The Meta Quest 3S Is the Best Headset for VR Noobs Meta’s most affordable VR headset is cheap, light, and easy to use. Just don’t expect to wear it too long, as the battery life isn't great. 3 Deals and Ray-Ban Glasses From $239 While “refurbished” might be a dirty word to some folks, to me it sounds like savings.
Chewy Promo Codes: $20 Off August 2026
Save StorySave this story Save StorySave this story If you’re a returning customer, don’t fret. Chewy has rotating deals on a myriad of pet essentials and supplies, like flea guard, treats, litter, toys, and more. With this Chewy promo code, you can get almost half off, with $20 off orders of $49 or more with Chewy coupon code GIFT20OFF. This is a rare coupon that is only for existing customers who are signed in with their account. Plus, you can get an extra $5 off on the first order made through the Chewy app with promo code. Courtesy of SnugglyCat Save to wishlistSave to wishlist Snuggly Cat The Ripple Rug Photograph: Molly Higgins Save to wishlistSave to wishlist Mau Ivy 3 Get Sitewide Chewy Free Shipping New customers can also get free 1-3 day delivery (with real-time tracking technology) on first-time orders over $35, which seriously helps in cutting down the convenience cost of being able to get your 40-lb litter box to your third-floor apartment without having to lug it on the L train yourself (speaking from experience, don’t endure what I’ve had to). Get the convenience without having to pay for it with Chewy coupons for free delivery on all items. Photograph: Molly Higgins Courtesy of Petkit Chevron Chevron Save to wishlistSave to wishlist Petkit Purobot Max Pro 2 Photograph: Molly Higgins Courtesy of Petlibro Chevron Chevron Save to wishlistSave to wishlist Petlibro Dockstream RFID Smart Fountain Save 50% With Chewy Coupons and Pet Food Deals Already a devoted pet-parent/Chewy member? While often the best Chewy promo codes are reserved for first-time customers, existing customers can score daily deals like buy 3, get 1 free offers on toys. Make sure to stay tuned here, because while our top Chewy promo codes unlock over 20% off, there’s more to look forward to., Expect discount codes still to come like 50% off premium dog and cat food, up to 40% off Flea and Tick medications for fall, and free shipping on $35 easy price to hit when you’re grabbing pet essentials (not to mention I’ll spend any amount to not lug around boxes of concrete clay litter in the pits of hell, aka the subway). Courtesy of Mau Save to wishlistSave to wishlist Mau Cento Cat Tree Photograph: Medea Giordano Save to wishlistSave to wishlist K&H Pet Products Kitty Sill Cat Window Perch Get 50% Off Your First Chewy Autoship Order Do we have any equestrians in the house tonight?
Apple Reportedly Testing Controversial Chinese Chips as Memory Supply Crunch Intensifies
Politics Apple Reportedly Testing Controversial Chinese Chips as Memory Supply Crunch Intensifies Apple is allegedly testing chips from a chipmaker that the Trump Admin considers a Chinese military company. 10, 2026, pm ET Reading time 3 minutes Apple CEO Tim Cook and President Trump © BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Read Later Read Later Comments (5) Apple has begun testing memory chips from Chinese supplier CXMT, according to a new Wall Street Journal report citing people familiar with the matter. The two companies have reportedly held early talks about using the Chinese chips in some Apple products sold in China, including iPhones and MacBooks. But the fate of the plan would be entirely up to the U. S. government, which imposes strict rules on American tech companies that want to do business with Chinese companies, especially when it comes to chips. ChangXin Memory Technologies, also known as CXMT, specializes in DRAM memory chips and is not only considered China’s largest chipmaker but also the world’s fastest-growing supplier of memory chips. The chipmaker is also considered a national security risk by Washington. The Biden administration designated the chipmaker a Chinese military company, and the Trump administration considered adding it to a trade blacklist but decided against it earlier this summer, according to a Reuters report. Previous reports claim Apple has been lobbying the Trump administration for a green light regarding CXMT for some time now, an action that has struck a chord with some members of Congress, who fear the action will undercut U. S. chip manufacturers like Micron and expose Apple tech secrets to Chinese competitors. Prominent China hawk Representative John Moolenaar told the Financial Times back in June that any partnership between Apple and the Chinese chipmaker “would be a grave mistake” that would help Beijing “succeed in its plans to dominate critical supply chains.” A bipartisan group of senators led , asking the Cupertino giant to commit to not using CXMT-produced memory chips “in any Apple product sold anywhere in the world.” “As the most demanding component buyer in the world, a decision ’s own purchase orders. This validation would function as a signal that other buyers follow,” the senators wrote in the letter. “The limitation that CXMT memory would, for the moment, be confined to devices sold in China cannot be expected to hold, because once a part clears qualification for Apple production, extending it worldwide is a single procurement decision away.” Apple is joining a growing list of American laptop makers, including Acer, HP and Asus, that are reportedly resorting to business with the controversial Chinese chipmaker despite pushback from Congress, highlighting just how dire the memory supply crunch has become.
James Norton on Ormund’s Gruesome ‘House of the Dragon’ Scene
Television James Norton on Ormund’s Gruesome ‘House of the Dragon’ Scene Our favorite Hightower got a particularly memorable moment in the season three finale. 10, 2026, pm ET Reading time 2 minutes © HBO Read Later Read Later Comments (1) If you made a list of “love to hate” characters from House of the Dragon season three, the despicably slimy yet deliciously campy Ormund Hightower would have to be at the top. After pretending to surrender to Daemon Targaryen and handing over a fake Daeron Targaryen, complete with hair bleached that telltale shade of white blonde, Ormund marched to Tumbleton and occupied the town. From afar, he fueled a vicious anti-Rhaenyra sabotage campaign in King’s Landing. In his day-to-day life, he loomed large over young Prince Daeron, whom he’d raised and targeted with his control-freak tendencies. Ormund could never rule, so he focused on Daeron instead, the most Hightower-like among all the potentially eligible Targaryens. In building out the character, actor James Norton made all the right choices when portraying Ormund’s many quirks, including a very hot temper, a tendency to vomit when faced with real danger, and an obsession with only inhaling pleasant aromas. But in the season finale, “The Treason at Tumbleton,” we got to see Ormund in full-on battle mode. He’s no slouch with the sword, as it turns out. But he’s no match for Roddy the Ruin, the leader of the Winter Wolves, who sets his sights on him and gives him a wound that will live on in House of the Dragon infamy. It also includes one of the show’s greatest all-time one-liners. Ormund does lop off Roddy’s arm. But any joy in that for him is ruined when Roddy’s blood spurts all over his face, a nightmare for anyone, much less a confirmed germophobe. And Ormund doesn’t even really have time to react because just then, Roddy shoves a blade into his backside, bellowing, “That’s a proper fucking… !” It’s gory as hell. But also hilarious, and that was the idea. “There was a lot of fun around the idea,” Norton told Entertainment Weekly. “Initially, there were multiple thrusts. Then I think there was a consensus that that was probably a little too much. In a lot of the stuff in House of the Dragon, you take it to an extreme, you find where the parameter exists, and then you put it back a bit.” A lot of planning went into getting the moment just right. “We had to shoot so many different versions: one with [Roddy’s] arm, one without the arm, one with the real blade, one with the small blade, one with the floppy blade.
Science
View All 10What he told me made my blood run cold - Michael Sheen investigates Wales' toxic legacy
Michael Sheen investigates Wales' toxic legacy in a new BBC iPlayer documentary Michael Phillips spent his childhood in the 1980s playing with friends at a lagoon, firing air guns at rusty barrels that released clouds of coloured powder - completely oblivious to the toxic chemicals within. Decades later, several of those friends and Phillips himself have developed rare cancers, which they believe may be linked to this. Researcher and whistleblower Douglas Gowan tried to sound the alarm about 14 such sites - 12 of which were in Wales - but died before his warnings were heeded. "What he told me made my blood run cold," said Hollywood actor Michael Sheen, who spoke to Gowan just months before he died and has now continued his investigation in a new BBC iPlayer documentary. Gowan, a former farming consultant, alleged that chemical giant Monsanto had dumped "huge amounts of industrial chemicals all around Wales". These included polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), he said, which he described as "some of the worst contaminants known to man" and were widely used during the last century, including for lipsticks and white goods. "This stuff builds up in the environment, builds up in animals and fish, and it builds up in us," Gowan said. Eastman Chemical Company, which is responsible for Monsanto's legacy production in the UK, did not respond to either Sheen and his team or the BBC when asked to comment. Douglas Gowan spent half a century trying to make people listen to his concerns about chemical contamination in Wales Sheen said PCBs were now known as "the godfather of forever chemicals". He added: "There is something out there in the forest, there is something in our bodies that can turn against us and tear us apart, but it's not like it is in the horror films. It's a silent killer." These manmade chemicals are stable, resistant to extreme temperatures and pressures and have insulating properties. Because of this they were used in everything from plastics and paint to electrical equipment. After concerns about toxicity to humans and animals were raised, a series of bans were put in place around the world from the 1970s onwards. But the chemicals take a long time to break down and have lingered in the environment, particularly in landfill, where they can leach into waterways and then into the sea. Gowan told Sheen in the documentary: "There was no regulation at the time, they could dump it wherever they wanted to." Archive footage shows a blaze at Llwyneinion near Ruabon in Wrexham, where the effects of the chemicals were reportedly felt up to 20 miles away In the 1980s, a fire at the lagoon at Llwyneinion near Ruabon in Wrexham took 60 firefighters more than 18 hours to bring under control.
Perseid meteor shower reaches peak: When and where to catch a glimpse
This year's Perseid peak coincides with a new moon, so there will be no bright moonlight to obscure meteors The best annual meteor shower has once again returned to our skies, and the Perseids dazzling display is set to peak on Wednesday night. But skywatchers will be treated to not one, but two, impressive astronomical events within just a few hours of each other. A deep partial solar eclipse will be also visible in the UK in the early evening before the Sun sets and the stars emerge. While the two events are unrelated, their timing makes for an exceptional night of stargazing. Astronomer Dr Becky Smethurst said it was "the perfect cosmic coincidence of events". Here is when to look up and where you will have the best views of the meteor shower. Where to biggest solar eclipse since 1999 Meteor showers happen when the Earth passes through trails of debris from asteroids or comets - a snowball of frozen rock and gas orbiting the Sun. As that debris enters our planet's atmosphere, it burns up and creates spectacular streaks of light - meteors. Royal Astronomical Society Research Fellow Dr Becky Smethurst described the Perseids as "one of the best nights for astronomy all year". The Perseids, pronounced 'Per-see-ids', are caused -Tuttle comet. This comet is considered large with its solid core measuring16 miles (26km) across. As it takes 133 years to complete a single orbit around the Sun - much longer than our own - some of the pieces of rock we see burning up could have been left behind more than a century ago. "It's sort of like the Universe's own cosmic clock in a way," Smethurst said. These meteors are visible all around the world and named because they appear to originate from the constellation Perseus. The Perseids is active from mid-July to 23 Aug this year, but on most nights the shower will only display a few meteors each hour. But the best time to watch is on the peak nights, which this year is in the early morning hours between midnight and dawn on 12 and 13 August. At this time there will be many, many more meteors. If possible, choose somewhere away from cities and artificial light. Light pollution will hide the fainter meteors, leaving only the brightest ones visible. This year could offer especially good viewing conditions because there is a new moon, meaning there will be no bright moonlight.
England set to eliminate hepatitis C
England is on track to become one of the first countries in the world to eliminate hepatitis C, a dangerous virus that attacks the liver, figures show. The target of treating 80% of all known cases has already been met, and deaths from the virus have fallen by 36% in the last decade, just short of what is needed by 2030. Taking antiviral tablets for 8 to 12 weeks can cure more than 95% of cases. Initiatives including A&E blood tests, GP registration testing and free at-home tests have helped to find people who were previously undiagnosed, says NHS England. Hepatitis C is spread through contact with blood infected with the virus, such as . Donor blood is already screened for it. It is a silent disease, meaning people often have no symptoms until much later. Untreated, it can cause serious and potentially life-threatening liver damage. NHS England says that since 2015, more than 100,000 people have been diagnosed and treated for hepatitis C, meaning the country is already meeting that target. Another goal - a 65% reduction in hepatitis C-related mortality compared with 2015 levels - has yet to be met, but might be before the 2030 target date. Around 50,200 adults are living with hepatitis C, figures for England in 2024 suggest. Estimates indicate 84.6% of those living with hepatitis C have been diagnosed - just short of the 90% target. The Hepatitis C Trust says England is "on the cusp" of one of the most significant public health achievements in our country's history. People can order a free, confidential NHS home self-testing kit, external without needing to speak to a GP. Paul Eatwell, 65, is one of the more than 100,000 people in England who have already been treated for hepatitis C Paul Eatwell, 65, was diagnosed after a routine blood test. The grandfather from Blackburn, Lancashire, said: "My first reaction was disbelief. I remember saying: 'Are you sure? Surely there's been some mistake.' "I didn't feel ill. I kept wondering how I could possibly have caught it." He says the medical support he received made a huge difference. While it has not been established how Eatwell caught the virus, it has been suggested that surgery in South Africa decades ago may have been the cause.
New weight-loss pill approved for use in UK
A daily weight-loss pill made - the first country in Europe to do so. Foundayo, made , is for treating obesity and type 2 diabetes. But while people will be able to buy it privately with a prescription, the approval . Foundayo is a form of GLP-1 medication that blunts appetite, and comes after the MHRA approved a pill version of a similar weight-loss drug, Wegovy, in June. Eli Lilly said while it could immediately be used 2 diabetes, it would be making an application to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence in England for it to be recommended as a weight loss treatment as well. Dr Simon Cork, from Anglia Ruskin University, said while the weight-loss benefits of Foundayo were less than other treatments, patients could still expect to see "significant, clinically meaningful changes to their weight". And he said a key advantage was that it was likely to be cheaper than other weight-loss treatments, which have tended to be tightly restricted . University of Glasgow expert Prof Naveed Sattar agreed it was "good news". He said another benefit was its convenience, pointing out that unlike the Wegovy pill, which has to be taken on an empty stomach, this pill could be taken at any time of the day. "The arrival of another effective oral option is a positive development and should help more people access treatment that best suits their needs and preferences," he added. Experts believe it could help people coming off weight-loss jabs remain slim. Trials found that patients who had used weight loss jabs and then been given the tablet, also called orforglipron, every day for a year avoided regaining much of the weight they had lost - a known risk when coming off GLP-1 injections. People on weight loss medication are also advised to eat a healthy diet and get enough exercise. And, like any medication, there can be side effects to using Foundayo, including nausea, diarrhoea, constipation and vomiting.
Environment
View All 9Disabled in a heatwave: 'We're talking about survival'
Emily Davison works with a guide dog as she has a visual impairment related to a congenital health condition Heatwaves this summer have brought travel disruption, overheating homes and school closures for millions - and there is a fifth heatwave expected to hit this week. It is well-documented that those with existing health conditions and disabilities are most at risk during extreme heat episodes. Public transport like buses often overheat and she avoids Uber after "too many experiences where they've not let me in with a dog". She says finding available taxis has become more difficult, even with London Taxicard scheme, a subsidised taxi service for people with mobility impairments or severe sight loss. During this summer's heatwaves, people have taken to social media to report phone batteries draining faster because of the high temperatures, but forJimmy batteries are what enable him to get around. "The heat definitely impacts the chair and it makes the battery go down a lot quicker. "I always have to think is there a way I can get to where I need to be without moving the chair?" Macfarlane says. Some days he has not even been able to leave his home - he previously lived in a sixth-floor flat and the heat caused the lift to break down. Such problems have been reported in other high-rise buildings , but unlike other residents Jimmy cannot just use the stairs to get round the problem. "There were times where I was stuck in the flat [for days] until it was fixed," he says. And the heat inside his flat became difficult to manage.
'We've had a lot of close calls': Canada wildfire evacuees wonder if they still have homes
This video can not be played "That fire came so fast": Wildfire rages in British Columbia Earl Kurz and his wife have lived in Peachland, a town overlooking Okanagan Lake in Canada's British Columbia, for 30 years. In the last 10, he said he has grown used to wildfires threatening his community. One woman, aged 80, died while trying to flee from the wildfire, police said on Sunday. With dry lightning, high temperatures and winds in the forecast, officials warned on Monday that the fire continues to be a threat and that new ignitions are possible. The Okanagan area of British Columbia, known for its world renowned vineyards and picturesque scenery, has been grappling with extreme drought in recent years. As of July, the level of the Okanagan Lake was at its lowest since 1992, according to the Okanagan Basin Water Board. The Bald Range wildfire is one of more than 100 burning in British Columbia as of Monday - 70 of which started in the last week alone. The west coast province's premier, David Eby, declared a state of emergency over the weekend, urging residents to heed evacuation orders and warning that the fires continue to move "incredibly quickly". Keegan Radomski's home, photographed here before the fire, was built 1996. Keegan Radomski is one of thousands who have had to flee their homes in Summerland, a town on the Okanagan Lake just south of Peachland. The 18-year-old told the BBC she barely escaped with her mother's ashes before she saw the fire breach her property. "We've had a lot of close calls before, but it's never been like this," Radomski said. "You always think it's not going to be you, and then it's you." The home she fled was built 30 years ago, she said. Living in the Okanagan for decades meant that Radomski and her family are familiar with wildfires and evacuation notices, but they were still caught off guard . The family noticed wildfire smoke from the distance while eating dinner on Friday evening. Less than four hours later, Radomski said she was scrambling to get everyone out as she saw a hill on her property begin to burn. She added she is still unsure if her family's home survived, and when she can return and check for herself. Radomski says she is unsure of when she is able to return to her property and assess the damage Doug Holmes, the mayor of Summerland, told CBC News on Monday that some people's homes have been lost, but "we don't know how many". "I think we need to prepare for the fact that everybody is going to know somebody that has lost a home," Holmes said.
‘National priority’ to equip UK firefighters amid growing wildfire threat
A firefighter tackels a blaze on Tintwistle Moor. Photograph: Ryan Jenkinson/ View image in fullscreen A firefighter tackels a blaze on Tintwistle Moor. Photograph: Ryan Jenkinson/ ‘National priority’ to equip UK firefighters amid growing wildfire threat Exclusive: FBU calls for more funding as ‘unprecedented summer’ puts rising demands on already stretched crews Firefighters in the UK are under increased pressure as a result of an “unprecedented summer of dangerous and volatile wildfires”, the Fire Brigades Union has said, as many parts of the country brace for a fifth heatwave of the year. As authorities declared almost three-quarters of England was now in drought, Steve Wright, the FBU general secretary, said the unpredictable environmental challenges the UK was now confronted with meant it was a “national priority” to have enough properly equipped firefighters to “face these threats”. More than 120 firefighters continued to tackle a blaze in the New Forest national park in Hampshire that began on Sunday. Nottinghamshire fire and rescue service declared a major incident on Sunday as two large fires in woodland near Mansfield put a significant strain on resources there. Emergency calls to the London fire brigade have increased by almost a third this summer as firefighters have battled a surge in wildfires and flooding in the capital, according to an internal briefing seen . The document warned that the brigade had come under mounting pressure from extreme weather and predicted the trend would continue because of the climate crisis. Between 1 April and 9 July, the service received 75,652 emergency calls – 31% more than the previous five-year average – while the number of incidents rose by nearly a quarter to 42,943. London firefighters responded to 392 wildfires during the period, alongside 68 water rescues, the briefing said, as repeated spells of hot weather and heavy thunderstorms stretched the service’s resources. The climate breakdown has been linked to the increasing frequency of wildfires, burning larger areas, across many parts of the world. The so-called “fire wave” under way in the UK is the most widespread the country has ever seen, with the combination of wet winters and prolonged heatwaves exacerbating the risk. In recent weeks, there have been large blazes in places including Dunwich Heath in Suffolk, Headon Warren on the Isle of Wight, Llanwonno in the Rhondda valley in south Wales, and the Cairngorms national park in Scotland. The National Drought Group, which met on Monday, said 71.3% of England was now experiencing a “flash drought”, which develops very quickly brought about by a combination of very low rainfall and higher temperatures.
Amber heat-health alerts issued for most of England as temperatures could reach 36C or higher this week – as it happened
The upgraded alerts will be in place from 9am on Tuesday until 9pm on FridayAn 18-year-old died after getting into difficulty in the sea at Camber Sands beach, East Sussex, yesterday, bringing the number of deaths in open-water incidents over the hot, dry summer to over 40, according to estimates compiled by the Press Association.The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has updated heat-health alerts for nine regions in England, warning that rising temperatures this week may increase health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups.It’s important that everyone is aware of the simple steps they can take to stay safe during periods of hot weather. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day and keeping indoor spaces cool are all things you can do to keep yourself and others safe.For vulnerable groups including older adults and those with existing health conditions, warmer weather than result in serious health outcomes. Continue reading...
Weather
View All 5Today: Sunny, Minimum Temperature: 15°C (58°F) Maximum Temperature: 28°C (83°F)
This video can not be played Toda will be a dry and sunny day with plenty of sunshine and little to no cloud around. Tonight will be a clear and dry night. Tomorrow will be partly cloudy to start. Patches of cloud will move in during the afternoon with sunny spells. It will be a dry and very warm day, hot for some. Outlook for Thursday to Saturday Thursday will be a mostly sunny day with just a few areas of cloud developing in the higher ground in the afternoon. Dry, but the odd shower cannot be ruled totally out. A very warm day, hot for some. Friday will be cloudy to start with the odd spot of rain. Turning sunnier later on in a less warm day. Saturday could be cloudy with long sunny spells developing in the afternoon. Average wind speed 3 Miles per hour, Easterly3Average wind speed 5 Kilometres per hour, Easterly5 Humidity: Humidity: 87%,87% Visibility: Visibility, not available,-- Pressure: Pressure: 1024 millibars, Steady,1024mb, Steady Observation station: Manchester Airport (53.350° North, 2.283° West)Observation station: Manchester Airport (53.350° N, 2.283° W) Our favourite Weather Watchers photos nearby Report for Delamere, Cheshire Dave BReported by Dave B Report for Delamere, Cheshire LadybugRuthReported , Wigan Jean`s JewelsReported by Jean`s Jewels Report for Timperley, Trafford Timperley TedReported
Wednesday: Sunny, Minimum Temperature: 19°C (67°F) Maximum Temperature: 31°C (89°F)
This video can not be played Toda will be a dry and sunny day with plenty of sunshine and little to no cloud around. Tonight will be a clear and dry night. Tomorrow will be partly cloudy to start. Patches of cloud will move in during the afternoon with sunny spells. It will be a dry and very warm day, hot for some. Outlook for Thursday to Saturday Thursday will be a mostly sunny day with just a few areas of cloud developing in the higher ground in the afternoon. Dry, but the odd shower cannot be ruled totally out. A very warm day, hot for some. Friday will be cloudy to start with the odd spot of rain. Turning sunnier later on in a less warm day. Saturday could be cloudy with long sunny spells developing in the afternoon. Average wind speed 3 Miles per hour, Easterly3Average wind speed 5 Kilometres per hour, Easterly5 Humidity: Humidity: 87%,87% Visibility: Visibility, not available,-- Pressure: Pressure: 1024 millibars, Steady,1024mb, Steady Observation station: Manchester Airport (53.350° North, 2.283° West)Observation station: Manchester Airport (53.350° N, 2.283° W) Our favourite Weather Watchers photos nearby Report for Delamere, Cheshire Dave BReported by Dave B Report for Delamere, Cheshire LadybugRuthReported , Wigan Jean`s JewelsReported by Jean`s Jewels Report for Timperley, Trafford Timperley TedReported
Total Solar Eclipse Targets Europe: First Path of Totality in 27 Years Arrives August 12
The long-awaited natural spectacle is finally here: the Total Solar Eclipse 2026. A rare total solar eclipse will sweep across Greenland, Iceland, and Spain on August 12, marking the first time the path of totality has crossed continental Europe since August 1999. This spectacular celestial alignment will deliver up to 2 minutes and 18 seconds of complete daytime darkness along a narrow, high-visibility corridor stretching from the Arctic Ocean to the Mediterranean. At sunset, the Moon completely covers the Sun, with the path of totality traveling in a narrow path from the Balearic Islands across Spain to western Iceland and eastern Greenland. The astronomical trajectory begins at sunrise in northern Siberia, tracking south-southwest over Greenland and skirting the western coastline of Iceland—where daytime skies will darken during peak afternoon hours. As the shadow accelerates across the Atlantic, the path of totality will directly enter northern and eastern Spain, turning afternoon daylight into twilight for millions across major cities like A Coruña, Zaragoza, and Palma de Mallorca before terminating at sunset. The specialty with 2026’s total solar eclipse is that it coincides with the Perseid meteor shower. This means that we will be able to observe the shooting stars during the totality as well. The August 12th total solar eclipse will also be visible from several large cities in Spain and Iceland. The path of totality, where the Moon will completely obscure the Sun, will cross the following cities: Palma, Spain Valencia, Spain Zaragoza, Spain Madrid, Spain Bilbao, Spain Reykjavik, Iceland The cities above will be top-rated destinations for eclipse watchers. Expect millions of people to witness the eclipse from within the path of totality, making many roads and parks crowded. Here are some tips for viewing the 2026 solar eclipse in big cities: Make sure to be on the path of totality: To total solar eclipse, you must be on the path of totality. You can use Google Maps or other tools to find the exact path and plan travel accordingly. Plan: Hotels and campsites near the path of totality book up quickly, so you are advised to make your reservations early. Check the weather: Look for the local weather office for locations with the best chance of clear skies during the eclipse. Get eclipse glasses: You must protect your eyes . Use colanders or slotted spoons: These excellent items can create exciting shadow patterns during the eclipse. Find a sunny location: Make sure you have a clear view of the Sun during the eclipse; you don’t want to miss the most important few minutes of totality.
Major M7.4 earthquake hits Chocó, Colombia, leaving dozens dead
Epicenter of M7.4 earthquake in San José del Palmar, Colombia on August 10, 2026. Credit: TW/SAM, Google The epicenter was located 5.1 km (3.2 miles) E of San José del Palmar (population 2 392), 24.5 km (15.2 miles) WNW of Ansermanuevo (population 12 332), 31 km (19 miles) SW of Santuario (population 11 787), 34 km (21 miles) W of La Virginia (population 25 900), and 55 km (34 miles) W of Pereira (population 467 269), Colombia. 1.9 million people are estimated to have felt very strong shaking, 14 million strong, 12.9 million moderate, and 5.6 million light. Based on all available data, there is no tsunami threat from this earthquake because it is located too deep inside the Earth, NWS PTWC said at UTC. The USGS issued an Orange alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. Significant casualties and damage are likely and the disaster is potentially widespread. Past orange alerts have required a regional or national level response. Estimated economic losses are less than 1% of GDP of Colombia. Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are vulnerable to earthquake shaking, though resistant structures exist. The predominant vulnerable building types are mud wall with wood and unknown/miscellaneous types construction. Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides and liquefaction that might have contributed to losses. Landslides triggered a significant area, with a significant population exposed. Liquefaction is estimated to have affected an extensive area, with an extensive population exposed. Epicenter of M7.4 earthquake in San José del Palmar, Colombia on August 10, 2026. Credit: TW/SAM, Google Epicenter of M7.4 earthquake in San José del Palmar, Colombia on August 10, 2026. Credit: TW/SAM, Google Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking Selected cities exposed Regional seismicity Updates UTC, August 10 Reuters reported at least 77 deaths at UTC, including 42 fatalities in Risaralda reported ño, three deaths in Manizales reported Córdoba. Cali Mayor Alejandro Eder said at least 25 structures collapsed at 12 critical locations in the city, with people trapped under debris. Eder said an elderly woman and a young girl had been rescued alive and that Cali had requested additional disaster-response teams from Bogotá and Medellín. Damage was reported across several western cities. Reuters reported a building collapse in Pereira, the loss of one of the towers of a cathedral in Manizales, and hospital patients being moved outside in Cali. Chocó Governor Nubia Carolina Córdoba-Curi reported injuries and building damage in Quibdó and warned residents about aftershocks. Colombia’s civil aviation authority suspended flights at airports in Pereira, Manizales, Quibdó, Armenia, Cartago and Buenaventura while inspectors evaluated possible structural damage.
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