France and Spain are battling one of their most severe wildfire emergencies in recent years, with more than 220,000 people either evacuated or forced to leave their homes as fast-moving fires continue to spread across both countries.

Authorities say soaring temperatures, prolonged dry weather, and the growing impact of climate change have intensified the wildfires, making them extremely difficult to contain. Emergency services remain on high alert as firefighters race to protect residential areas and prevent further destruction.

Over Two Lakh People Displaced

According to official figures, around 141,000 residents in France have been evacuated as wildfires spread rapidly through several regions, particularly near Bordeaux.

In neighboring Spain, the government has declared a national emergency after multiple fires broke out across the country. Authorities have ordered 25,000 people to evacuate their homes, while nearly 40,000 residents have been advised to remain indoors because of hazardous smoke and deteriorating air quality.

The combined impact has affected more than 220,000 people, making it one of Europe's largest wildfire emergencies this year.

Extreme Heat and Climate Change Blamed

Emergency officials say the fires have been fueled by exceptionally high temperatures, dry vegetation, and strong winds.

According to reports, the flames spread so rapidly that firefighters were unable to attack some fire fronts directly, forcing authorities to prioritize evacuations and the protection of populated areas.

Scientists have repeatedly warned that climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including prolonged heatwaves and destructive wildfires across southern Europe.

Firefighters Injured, No Deaths Reported in Current Blaze

French authorities confirmed that dozens of firefighters sustained injuries while battling the flames. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported in either France or Spain during the current wildfire crisis.

Emergency crews continue working around the clock to contain the fires despite difficult weather conditions.

Military Deployed to Fight the Fires

Spain has deployed its Military Emergency Unit (UME) to assist firefighters in controlling the rapidly advancing flames.

One of the primary operations is underway near the historic town of El Escorial, where emergency teams are attempting to stop the fire before it reaches residential neighborhoods.

Authorities are also monitoring another significant wildfire in Ávila Province, where firefighting operations remain ongoing.

Massive Traffic Jams During Evacuations

As evacuation orders were issued, thousands of residents attempted to leave affected areas simultaneously, resulting in kilometres-long traffic jams on major highways.

Images from the affected regions showed vehicles stretching for miles as families rushed to safer locations while smoke engulfed nearby forests.

Emergency officials urged residents to follow designated evacuation routes and avoid returning to affected areas until authorities declare them safe.

Thousands of Firefighters Continue Operations

Firefighters from several countries, including Spain, Morocco, Colombia, and Romania, have joined efforts to contain the flames.

Ground crews are working alongside helicopters and aircraft to slow the spread of the fires and protect homes, forests, and critical infrastructure.

Despite their efforts, officials warn that strong winds and dry conditions continue to create unpredictable fire behavior.

Earlier Wildfires Claimed 12 Lives

The current emergency comes only days after another devastating wildfire swept through Spain's Andalusia region, killing at least 12 people and leaving 19 others missing.

According to authorities, the fire spread rapidly after reportedly being triggered by the collapse of a power line, although investigators are still examining the exact cause.

Several victims were found trapped inside a vehicle while others died attempting to escape the fast-moving flames.

Officials said one of the vehicles appeared to be right-hand drive, raising the possibility that some victims may have been British nationals. The UK Foreign Office has been informed.

Europe Faces Another Severe Wildfire Season

The latest fires highlight the growing challenge Europe faces each summer as rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and changing climate patterns increase wildfire risks.

Authorities in both France and Spain have urged residents to remain vigilant, follow evacuation instructions, and avoid affected regions while emergency crews continue their operations.

With weather conditions expected to remain hot and dry, firefighters fear the situation could worsen before significant containment is achieved.

Venezuela has confirmed that the death toll from last month's devastating twin earthquakes has risen to 5,069, as the country begins a massive reconstruction effort backed by $346 million in emergency funding released by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, struck within a minute of each other on June 24, causing widespread destruction in the coastal state of La Guaira, about 40 kilometres northeast of the capital, Caracas.

Over 5,000 Lives Lost

National Assembly chief Jorge Rodriguez announced that the confirmed death toll has reached 5,069, with the worst devastation reported in La Guaira, where entire neighbourhoods suffered extensive damage.

Authorities said the number of injured remains at 16,740, with most patients having already been discharged from hospitals following weeks of emergency medical treatment.

Search, recovery and damage assessment operations have continued across the affected regions since the disaster struck.

IMF Releases Emergency Funding

The Venezuelan government also announced that it has accessed $346 million from the IMF to support relief, rehabilitation and rebuilding efforts.

Interim President Delcy Rodriguez said the funds would be used to accelerate reconstruction in the earthquake-hit regions and restore critical infrastructure.

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva confirmed that the institution had facilitated Venezuela's access to its own reserve resources for urgent humanitarian needs through its reserve tranche mechanism.

Thousands Remain Displaced

Despite ongoing relief operations, nearly 20,000 people remain displaced after losing their homes in the earthquakes.

Many survivors are currently living in temporary shelters and overcrowded relief camps, where authorities continue to face challenges in providing adequate drinking water, sanitation facilities and essential healthcare services.

Humanitarian agencies have warned that rebuilding damaged communities is likely to take several months.

IMF Relations Resume

The latest funding reflects a significant shift in Venezuela's relationship with international financial institutions.

Venezuela holds approximately 3.568 billion Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) at the IMF, equivalent to around $5.1 billion.

Access to these resources had remained restricted for years due to international recognition disputes involving the country's political leadership.

Earlier this year, the IMF and the World Bank resumed engagement with Venezuela following major political developments that reshaped the country's relations with international institutions.

Reconstruction Challenges Ahead

The earthquakes caused extensive damage to homes, roads, public buildings and essential infrastructure across northern Venezuela, particularly in coastal communities.

Government agencies have prioritised restoring electricity, water supply and transportation networks while continuing to assess long-term reconstruction needs.

Officials say the newly released IMF funds will help finance emergency housing, infrastructure repair and humanitarian assistance as Venezuela begins recovering from one of the deadliest natural disasters in its recent history.

The humanitarian crisis in Bangladesh has deepened as continuous heavy rainfall, flash floods and landslides pushed the flood death toll to 51, with more than one million people affected across the country's southeastern and northeastern regions.

According to the latest situation report issued by Bangladesh's Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, the floods have impacted 1,022,963 people, while nearly 267,918 families remain stranded in inundated areas. Authorities said 39 people have been injured, and thousands have been forced to seek temporary shelter.

Seven Districts Face Severe Flooding

The ministry said floodwaters have inundated 58 upazilas (sub-districts), 386 unions and 11 municipalities across seven districts — Khagrachhari, Rangamati, Bandarban, Cox's Bazar, Chattogram, Moulvibazar and Habiganj.

To assist displaced residents, the government has established 1,131 relief shelters, where 44,457 people are currently taking refuge as rescue and relief operations continue.

Cox's Bazar Records Highest Casualties

Among the affected districts, Cox's Bazar has reported the highest number of fatalities, with 28 people losing their lives.

The deceased include 15 local residents and 13 members of the Rohingya refugee community. Officials said 24 people have been injured, while one person remains missing. More than 158,000 residents have been affected in the district.

Authorities are continuing rescue efforts as several low-lying areas remain submerged.

Chattogram Worst Hit By Flood Impact

While Cox's Bazar recorded the highest number of deaths, Chattogram has emerged as the worst-affected district in terms of the scale of devastation.

Nearly 595,000 people across 16 upazilas have been impacted, with approximately 147,500 families still stranded due to floodwaters.

The ministry also confirmed 13 deaths in Chattogram, followed by six fatalities in Bandarban, three in Rangamati, and one in Moulvibazar.

Relief And Rescue Operations Continue

The Bangladesh government said emergency response teams remain deployed across the affected districts to provide food, drinking water, medical assistance and temporary shelter to displaced families.

Authorities are closely monitoring river levels and weather conditions as heavy rainfall continues in several parts of the country. Officials warned that the flood situation may remain critical if rainfall persists in the coming days.

Disaster management agencies have appealed for continued public cooperation while relief operations are intensified to reach remote and inaccessible areas.

The floods have once again highlighted Bangladesh's vulnerability to extreme weather events during the monsoon season, with authorities focusing on rescue, rehabilitation and restoring essential services in the affected districts.

In a significant ruling on disaster relief compensation, the Chhattisgarh High Court has held that a person who dies after falling from a tree during a storm or severe weather conditions is entitled to compensation under the state's natural disaster relief policy.

Setting aside an order of the Revenue Department that had denied relief, the court directed the state government to pay an ex gratia compensation of ₹4 lakh to the deceased's family within 30 days.

The judgment was delivered by Justice Sanjay K. Agrawal of the Chhattisgarh High Court in a case arising from Mohla area of Rajnandgaon district.

Family Challenged Rejection of Compensation

The case was filed by Amar Singh, whose father, Shyamuram Mandavi, died on July 16, 2020, while collecting lac from a tree.

According to the petition, Shyamuram was working atop the tree when a sudden storm, accompanied by heavy rain and strong winds, caused him to lose balance and fall. He sustained fatal injuries in the accident.

Following the incident, police completed all legal formalities, including the inquest and post-mortem examination.

Revenue Department Had Denied Relief

Amar Singh later applied for compensation under the state's natural disaster relief policy, seeking the prescribed assistance of ₹4 lakh.

Based on the inquiry, the Naib Tehsildar recommended that compensation be granted. However, the Additional Collector rejected the claim on February 1, 2021, stating that death caused by falling from a tree was not covered under the Revenue Book Circular (RBC) provisions governing natural disaster relief.

The rejection prompted the petitioner to approach the High Court.

Court Interprets Disaster Relief Policy

During the hearing, the High Court referred to Clause 6 of the Revenue Book Circular (RBC) issued on June 9, 2015.

The court observed that deaths resulting from natural events such as storms, cyclones, floods and similar adverse weather conditions qualify as deaths caused by natural disasters. Therefore, relief cannot be denied merely because the immediate cause of death was a fall from a tree if the fall itself resulted from severe weather.

Justice Agrawal held that Shyamuram Mandavi's death was not an ordinary accident but occurred directly because of the storm and heavy rainfall, bringing it within the ambit of the state's disaster relief policy.

High Court Orders Compensation

Quashing the Additional Collector's order, the High Court directed the Chhattisgarh government to release ₹4 lakh as ex gratia assistance to the deceased's son within 30 days.

The ruling is expected to provide clarity in similar cases where fatalities occur due to the indirect effects of natural calamities, ensuring that affected families are not denied compensation solely because of the immediate manner in which the death occurred.

The survivor, identified as Hernán Gil, was rescued after emergency personnel detected signs of life beneath nearly 140 tonnes of concrete and debris. Officials described the operation as one of the most technically challenging rescue missions carried out since the earthquakes devastated parts of the country. According to rescue workers, Gil had remained trapped inside the ruins for more than a week before his faint cries for help were heard during a search operation on Sunday. Allan Madrigal, a paramedic with the Costa Rican Red Cross, said he initially believed he had imagined the sound and asked a fellow rescuer to confirm it before teams launched an intensive effort to reach the trapped man.

Gil, who worked as a security guard, was on duty inside a small reinforced concrete security booth in the basement parking area near the Galerias Playa Grande shopping mall in Catia La Mar when the earthquakes struck. Rescue officials believe the concrete structure shielded him from the collapsing debris and played a crucial role in his survival. Medical teams supplied Gil with water and intravenous fluids while rescue personnel carefully removed debris to prevent further collapse. Emergency responders from Venezuela were joined by specialists from Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Mexico, Portugal and the United States during the complex rescue operation.

Rescuers established visual contact with Gil after inserting a small camera through a narrow opening in the rubble. They later provided him with a protective face mask and safety goggles to minimise dust exposure while excavation work continued. Marco Antonio Franco of the Mexican Red Cross said Gil remained calm throughout the rescue effort and regularly communicated with emergency personnel. According to rescuers, he even requested specific flavours of hydration drinks while waiting to be freed.

A Chilean firefighter involved in the mission described the operation as the most technically demanding rescue he had ever participated in, citing the unstable debris and confined working conditions. Meanwhile, authorities said the death toll from the twin earthquakes has climbed to nearly 2,300. Thousands of people are still reported missing, while rescue and recovery teams continue searching damaged buildings in the hope of finding more survivors. Emergency response agencies remain deployed across the affected regions as humanitarian assistance and relief operations continue. Officials have said search efforts will continue despite increasingly difficult conditions at several collapsed structures.

The 7.5 magnitude quake is the strongest to hit the country since 1900; international rescue teams are being deployed as acting president declares a state of emergency.

At least 164 people have been confirmed dead and nearly 1,000 injured after two powerful earthquakes — measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude — struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening, reducing buildings to rubble and triggering widespread panic across the capital and coastal regions.

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez, who announced the death toll on Thursday, described the situation as a "true tragedy." The number of casualties is expected to rise significantly. A website tracking missing persons has listed over 7,380 people as unaccounted for as of Thursday afternoon.

The first quake struck about 160 km west of Caracas at a depth of 13 km. Less than a minute later, a second, stronger tremor of 7.5 magnitude hit near Morón at a depth of just 10 km. The shallower depth meant more intense ground shaking, causing severe damage across a wide area.

This is Venezuela's strongest earthquake event in 126 years, surpassing any since the magnitude 7.7 quake of 1900.

La Guaira Becomes 'Disaster Zone'

The port city of La Guaira, north of Caracas, has been the worst-hit area. Officials said at least 15 buildings collapsed there, with rescue teams continuing to search for survivors. Acting President Rodríguez described the area as a "disaster zone."

In Caracas, several residential buildings collapsed, including a five-flat structure in the San Bernardino district. The Chacao municipality reported four building collapses and at least one death, with 30 other structures deemed structurally compromised.

Rescue workers have pulled several survivors from the debris. Three children were rescued alive from a collapsed building in La Guaira. In the Baruta municipality, search operations were completed after three people were confirmed dead in the Las Minas de Baruta parish.

Internet Disrupted, Gas Supply Cut

Internet connectivity across Venezuela dropped to 59% of normal levels shortly after the quakes, according to monitoring group NetBlocks. The disruption, linked to power outages and infrastructure damage, has hampered information flow from affected areas.

Venezuela's interior minister said gas supplies were temporarily cut off as a precaution while authorities assess damage to prevent gas-related accidents.

The Simon Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía sustained significant damage and remains closed. Schools have been ordered closed nationwide, with some buildings being converted into relief shelters.

USGS Warns Death Toll Could Cross 10,000

The US Geological Survey has issued a red alert — the highest warning level — estimating that fatalities could range between 10,000 and 100,000. The agency puts a 44% chance that the death toll exceeds 10,000 and a 30% chance it surpasses 100,000.

The estimate is based on the earthquake's magnitude, depth, ground shaking, population exposure, and comparisons to similar past events. The final toll will depend on factors like building quality and the time of day the quake struck.

International Response Pours In

US President Donald Trump pledged "a whole-of-government response" to the disaster, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio saying it will be "big, fast, and effective."

Several nations have offered assistance:

- El Salvador: 300 rescuers and 50 tonnes of equipment ready for deployment

- Germany: Six A400M military transport aircraft on standby

- Switzerland: 80 rescue workers and 18 tonnes of equipment being sent

- EU: Copernicus satellite surveillance activated

- UN: Specialist rescue teams certified by the UN are en route

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow and said India stands ready to assist in every possible way.

A City in Shock

Luis Alejandro Ruiz Garcia, a 25-year-old Caracas resident, described scenes of devastation. He received a Google earthquake alert moments before violent shaking cracked a wall in his home. "When we went downstairs, it looked like something out of a horror movie. We had to climb over the rubble from the building. You could hear the banging and the screams of people calling for help."

Another resident, Maria Alejandra, told Al Jazeera: "The walls had fallen, the bars were broken. I only saw one family make it out."

The earthquake struck in the evening, and rescue teams have been working through the rubble all night. The government has declared a nationwide state of emergency.

Japan Also Hit by 6.9 Magnitude Quake

In a separate development, a magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck Japan's northeastern coast. Authorities reported no tsunami threat and no major damage or casualties so far. Bullet train services between Tokyo and Shin-Aomori were temporarily suspended as a precaution.

An 11-year-old girl died after being struck by lightning in Sakti district, while the weather department has issued a two-day alert for thunderstorms and lightning across several parts of Chhattisgarh.

 A Class 6 student was killed after being struck by lightning in Chhattisgarh's Sakti district amid widespread thunderstorm activity across the state. The incident occurred on Friday evening in Gram Anda, where the child was reportedly playing outside her house when the lightning strike took place.

The deceased has been identified as Deepti Chandra, 11. According to local reports, the lightning struck suddenly during adverse weather conditions, leading to her death on the spot. The incident has cast a shadow over the village as residents continue to cope with unstable weather across the region.

The tragedy comes at a time when the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds in different parts of the state over the next two days.

Weather Alert Issued

The weather department has forecast continued thunderstorm activity across several districts of Chhattisgarh. Officials have advised residents to remain cautious, especially during periods of lightning and strong winds.

Meteorologists say changing atmospheric conditions are likely to trigger scattered rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning in many areas through the weekend.

Authorities have urged people to avoid open fields, isolated trees and exposed locations during thunderstorms.

Storm Activity Across State

Over the past 24 hours, weather conditions remained active across all divisions of Chhattisgarh.

Many districts witnessed thunderstorms, strong winds and intermittent rainfall. The weather activity provided some relief from heat in several places but also increased the risk of lightning-related incidents and structural damage.

In recent days, rain and storm-related incidents have been reported from different districts, highlighting the impact of the changing weather pattern.

Temperatures Remain High

Despite rainfall in many areas, temperatures continue to remain relatively high across parts of the state.

Raipur recorded the highest maximum temperature in Chhattisgarh at 37 degrees Celsius during the last 24 hours. Ambikapur reported the lowest minimum temperature at 22.7 degrees Celsius.

Weather experts say fluctuations in temperature and humidity levels are contributing to the formation of thunderclouds and localised storm activity.

Previous Rain-Related Incidents

The latest lightning fatality follows other weather-related incidents reported this week.

In Raigarh district, a woman lost her life and two others were injured after a wall collapsed during heavy rain and storm conditions. Local authorities have been monitoring vulnerable areas as rainfall activity intensifies in parts of the state.

Officials have appealed to residents to remain alert and follow safety advisories issued by district administrations and disaster management agencies.

Rain Likely in Raipur

The weather department has predicted cloudy conditions and spells of rain accompanied by thunder and lightning in Raipur on Saturday.

The state capital is expected to record a maximum temperature of around 38 degrees Celsius and a minimum temperature of approximately 28 degrees Celsius.

Meteorologists say weather conditions are likely to remain favourable for scattered showers across central and northern districts of Chhattisgarh over the next couple of days.

Safety Advisory

Disaster management officials have reiterated that lightning poses a serious risk during the monsoon and pre-monsoon period. Residents have been advised to immediately move indoors when thunder is heard and avoid using electrical appliances during storms.

With lightning alerts remaining in force across multiple districts, authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have urged citizens to stay updated through official weather bulletins.

The death of the young student in Sakti serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with severe weather as Chhattisgarh enters a period of heightened thunderstorm activity.

A powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake rocked the southern Philippines early Monday morning, causing at least one death and collapsing several buildings in General Santos City as residents rushed into the streets in panic. Tsunami warnings were swiftly issued for coastal areas across the Philippines, with alerts extending to parts of Indonesia and Malaysia.

The quake struck at around 7:37 a.m. local time (5:07 a.m. IST), with its epicentre located about 13-26 kilometres southwest of General Santos City on Mindanao Island. Initial assessments point to significant damage in the bustling tuna-processing hub, home to over 700,000 people.

Strong Tremors Shake Southern Philippines

Residents described the shaking as one of the strongest they had ever felt. Videos circulating on social media showed dust and debris rising from damaged structures, including a partially collapsed Jollibee restaurant and other buildings in the city centre. Power outages plunged several neighbourhoods into darkness, adding to the chaos as people fled homes and offices.

Master Sergeant Robert Dagan of the General Santos City Police reported that multiple buildings were affected. Rescue teams are working to assess trapped individuals amid ongoing operations. In nearby Alabel town in Sarangani province, police chief Benjie Ancheta noted cracks in the station building and said some people fainted from fear during the intense tremors.

Tsunami Warnings Trigger Evacuations

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center and local authorities quickly raised alarms. Waves up to three metres were possible in parts of the Philippines, while up to one-metre waves were forecast for certain coastal zones in Indonesia and Malaysia. People in low-lying areas were urged to move to higher ground immediately.

Tremors were also felt in Indonesia’s North Sulawesi and North Maluku regions. Indonesia’s BMKG issued its own warnings, and Japan’s Meteorological Agency released a tsunami advisory for its southern coasts. US agencies confirmed no threat to Hawaii or the Pacific coasts of the United States and Canada.

President Marcos Orders Immediate Response

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed all concerned agencies to prioritise rescue and relief efforts. He emphasised moving residents to safer locations and ensuring swift government support, stating that Mindanao would not be left behind.

Local officials released images showing extensive damage to shops and infrastructure. As of the latest updates, at least one fatality has been confirmed, with reports of injuries emerging from the affected zones.

Aftershocks Raise Fears of Further Damage

Several aftershocks, including magnitudes around 6.1, have rattled the region since the main event. Seismologists warn that such tremors can persist for days or weeks, sometimes matching or exceeding the original quake’s strength and worsening damage to already compromised structures.

Ring of Fire Location Heightens Risks

The Philippines sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a highly active seismic zone prone to frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity due to tectonic plate movements. The country faces dozens of quakes annually and is no stranger to disasters, compounded by its vulnerability to typhoons.

In October 2025, a 6.9-magnitude quake in Cebu Province claimed 69 lives, serving as a grim reminder of the region’s exposure. Monday’s event ranks among the strongest to hit the Philippines in recent decades.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. Rescue operations remain underway in General Santos and surrounding areas, while residents are advised to stay vigilant for aftershocks and adhere to official safety guidelines. The full extent of casualties and destruction is still being assessed as teams reach harder-hit zones.

5.2-magnitude quake jolts Guangxi, two dead and thousands evacuated

Earthquake in Liuzhou damages buildings, prompts mass evacuations and ongoing rescue operations

A 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region early Monday, killing two people, collapsing several buildings and forcing more than 7,000 residents in Liuzhou to evacuate, authorities said. Rescue teams continued searches in the hours after the tremor while officials inspected transport links and infrastructure for damage.

Immediate impact
According to provincial emergency management officials, the quake hit in the pre-dawn hours near Liuzhou city. Initial reports said 13 buildings collapsed and one person remained missing; four others were hospitalised with non-life-threatening injuries. Local news outlets said the two fatalities were confirmed late morning after search teams recovered victims from damaged structures.

Evacuations and shelter
More than 7,000 people were evacuated from the most affected neighbourhoods of Liuzhou, the city government said. Municipal authorities set up temporary shelters in community centres and schools, providing basic supplies and medical attention. Social media posts from residents in the area described panicked evacuations in the early hours, with families leaving homes barefoot and children clutching belongings.

Timeline and ground cues
Residents reported feeling strong shaking for several seconds around 3:30am local time, followed by aftershocks that kept people outdoors for hours. “My apartment shook so hard the lights went out,” a local resident told state media. Emergency services said aftershock activity continued through the morning, complicating rescue work and inspections of unstable buildings.

Infrastructure checks
Railway and transport officials dispatched inspection teams to check tracks and bridges on key routes serving Liuzhou. Authorities warned of possible delays as lines were examined, though state reporting added that power, water, gas and major road links were functioning normally in most parts of the city. Telecommunications providers reported largely intact mobile and landline services, helping coordinate relief.

Rescue operations
Search-and-rescue teams from Liuzhou and neighbouring prefectures were mobilised, with heavy machinery brought in to clear rubble where collapses occurred. Local hospitals activated emergency protocols to treat those injured, while volunteer groups delivered blankets and food to shelters. Officials cautioned residents to avoid damaged areas to let responders work and to follow directives from emergency personnel.

Official response and statements
Provincial authorities convened an emergency meeting early on Monday to coordinate relief and damage assessment. “Rescue operations are ongoing,” a provincial emergency management spokesperson said in a brief statement carried by state media. No detailed cause was provided beyond standard geological explanations; seismological agencies said the quake was likely the result of shallow crustal fault movement common to the region.

Background on seismic risk
Guangxi is not among China’s most seismically active provinces, but earthquakes do occur periodically in southern China due to complex interactions between tectonic blocks. Seismologists say shallow, moderate-magnitude quakes can still cause substantial local damage if they strike populated areas with vulnerable buildings. The China Earthquake Networks Center usually issues rapid assessments after such events to guide relief.

Public safety and precautions
Local authorities urged residents to stay calm, avoid entering structurally compromised buildings and follow official evacuation routes. Hospitals posted advisories for non-critical patients to defer visits where possible to keep capacity for trauma care. Schools in the worst-hit districts were closed for inspections, with decisions on reopening to be made after structural checks.

What happens next
Teams are conducting a fuller damage assessment and compiling lists of displaced residents needing longer-term shelter. Railway inspections will determine whether any services must be suspended or speed-restricted for safety. Seismologists will monitor aftershocks and release updates as data comes in.

The quake’s human toll and disruption underline the challenges cities face when moderate seismic events strike built-up areas. For now, relief and search operations remain the priority as authorities work to account for the missing and stabilise damaged sites.

3 hikers killed as Mount Dukono erupts in Indonesia; rescue ops on for missing trekkers

At least three hikers, including two Singaporean nationals, were killed and several others remain missing after Mount Dukono in eastern Indonesia erupted early Friday morning. The sudden eruption sent a massive plume of volcanic ash nearly 10 kilometres into the sky, catching a group of trekkers deep within a restricted danger zone.

Casualties confirmed in restricted zone

Local authorities confirmed that the deceased include two foreign nationals from Singapore and one Indonesian resident from Ternate island. The group, reportedly consisting of around 20 hikers, was on the slopes of the 1,335-metre volcano when the blast occurred at approximately 7:41 a.m. local time.

North Halmahera Police Chief Erlichson Pasaribu stated that the hikers were positioned well within the 4-kilometre exclusion radius, an area that has been strictly off-limits since mid-April. While 15 hikers have reportedly been accounted for—some with minor injuries—the status of at least three others remains unclear as search teams navigate the volatile terrain.

Rescue efforts hit by terrain

Rescue operations involving joint teams from Basarnas (the national search agency) and the military are currently underway, though progress has been slow. Volcanic tremors and a continuous "booming sound" from the crater have made it dangerous for teams to reach the higher elevations where the bodies of the victims are believed to be located.

"The terrain is extremely difficult, and the victims will need to be carried down on stretchers once reached," Pasaribu told local media. He added that the ongoing rumbling and ash fall are significant hurdles for the evacuation teams operating near the Malupang Warirang crater.

Massive ash cloud triggers alert

The eruption was recorded on seismographs for over 16 minutes, creating a column of thick grey smoke that rose 10,000 metres above the summit. Lana Saria, head of Indonesia’s Geology Agency, warned that the ash is currently drifting northward. This has put Tobelo City and surrounding residential clusters at risk of "ash rain," prompting authorities to distribute masks and advise residents to stay indoors.

Hikers ignored safety warnings

Officials have expressed frustration over the incident, noting that Mount Dukono has been on a Level 2 alert status for months. Warning signs and social media advisories were reportedly ignored by the group, who were allegedly accompanied by a local guide and porter.

"Local residents generally understand the risks and avoid the climb, but many tourists are driven by the desire to create social media content," Pasaribu noted. Authorities are currently questioning the surviving guides to determine how the group bypassed security checkpoints to enter the prohibited zone.

Living on the Ring of Fire

This latest tragedy underscores the constant volcanic threat in Indonesia, which sits on the Pacific "Ring of Fire." With nearly 130 active volcanoes, the archipelago is one of the most seismically active regions globally. Mount Dukono itself has been restless since March, recording nearly 200 minor eruptions before Friday's fatal blast.

Volcanologists expect the activity to remain high over the next 48 hours. Rescue teams remain on standby at the Mamuya village monitoring station, waiting for a safe window to retrieve the deceased and locate any remaining survivors.

A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck Manipur in the early hours of Tuesday, sending tremors across parts of the Northeast. According to officials, the quake occurred at 5:59 am IST, catching residents off guard as many rushed out of their homes in fear.

Epicentre and Depth

The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) said the epicentre was located in Kamjong district of Manipur. The earthquake originated at a depth of 62 kilometres beneath the surface, which likely reduced the intensity of surface damage despite being widely felt.

Tremors Across Region

Apart from Manipur, tremors were reported in neighbouring states including Nagaland, Assam and Meghalaya. Residents in several towns said the shaking lasted for a few seconds but was strong enough to prompt evacuation from homes and buildings.

No Major Damage Yet

Authorities have not reported any immediate loss of life or significant property damage. Local administration teams remain on alert, and assessments are underway to determine if remote or vulnerable areas have suffered any impact.

Panic Among Residents

Eyewitness accounts suggested widespread panic, especially in urban centres. Many people stepped out into open spaces as a precaution. Schools and offices were yet to report any disruption, but the sudden tremor created anxiety among residents.

Ongoing State Tensions

The earthquake comes amid ongoing unrest in Manipur, where law and order issues continue to disrupt normal life. Recent incidents of violence, protests and shutdowns have already strained public services in both valley and hill districts.

Protests and Shutdowns

Earlier this month, multiple organisations had called for shutdowns in protest against killings and violence in the state. Several districts witnessed closures of schools, markets and public transport, affecting daily life across the region.

Security Concerns Rise

Officials said security forces remain deployed in sensitive areas following recent violent incidents. Protests in Imphal and surrounding regions have occasionally turned tense, adding to concerns about public safety and governance challenges.

Monitoring and Preparedness

Disaster management authorities are closely monitoring the situation after the Manipur earthquake. Experts note that the Northeast falls under a high seismic zone, making such tremors relatively frequent.

What Lies Ahead

Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and follow safety protocols in case of aftershocks. As per latest inputs, no aftershocks have been reported so far.

Sikkim landslide traps 1,500 tourists; 15 dead in UP lightning strikes

Massive landslides hit Mangan district as heavy rains lash North India; IMD issues thunderstorm alerts for 16 states.

Mangan/Lucknow/Bhopal: In a significant weather-related escalation, nearly 1,500 tourists have been stranded in North Sikkim’s Mangan district following massive landslides triggered by a cloudburst-like situation. Simultaneously, a deadly spell of lightning and thunderstorms across Uttar Pradesh has claimed 15 lives over the last 72 hours.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a high-priority alert for 16 states, citing an active Western Disturbance that is sweeping across the northern and northeastern belts. The situation remains critical in high-altitude zones where road connectivity has been completely severed.

Tourists stranded in Mangan

Heavy rainfall on Sunday triggered multiple landslides along the Lachen-Chungthang road, effectively cutting off the region. According to officials, around 1,500 tourists are currently stuck at various points in North Sikkim.

The Mangan district administration has initiated emergency rescue protocols. Stranded visitors are being accommodated in local hotels and government facilities. Sources indicated that the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is working to clear the debris, though intermittent rain continues to hamper progress.

Fatal lightning in UP

The plains of Uttar Pradesh are reeling under a violent spell of pre-monsoon activity. Reports confirm 15 fatalities across the state within three days due to lightning strikes and storm-related accidents.

Districts including Gonda, Sultanpur, Kanpur, and Varanasi witnessed high-velocity winds reaching 50 kmph. In Kanpur and Mathura, hailstorms caused significant damage to standing crops, adding to the distress of the local farming community.

Snowfall hits hill states

While the plains battle rain, the Himalayan states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh are experiencing unseasonal snowfall. Yamunotri Dham and higher reaches of Lahaul and Spiti recorded significant accumulation on Sunday.

Gondla reported 28.5 cm of fresh snow, while Keylong recorded 20 cm. The sudden drop in temperature and accompanying hailstorms have sparked concerns regarding apple orchards in Shimla, Kullu, and Mandi.

Rescue operations intensified

Sikkim authorities have mobilized the Indian Army and NDRF teams to assist the civil administration in Mangan. "Our primary focus is the safety of the tourists and restoration of the North Sikkim Highway," a senior official stated.

In Uttar Pradesh, the state government has announced ex-gratia compensation for the families of the deceased. Local administrations have been put on high alert to handle potential flooding in low-lying areas.

Severe weather alerts

The IMD has extended its thunderstorm warning to 16 states, including Rajasthan, Delhi-NCR, and Haryana. A new weather system is expected to become active in Rajasthan today, potentially bringing heavy showers to 13 districts.

Meteorologists suggest that the interaction between the Western Disturbance and easterly winds is creating volatile atmospheric conditions. This has led to the current "Public Interest Story" regarding safety precautions during lightning.

Impact on agriculture

The agriculture sector faces a grim outlook as hailstorms continue to lash North India. Wheat and mustard crops in Rajasthan and Haryana, and fruit plantations in Himachal, are reportedly the worst hit.

Economists suggest that these recurring weather disruptions could impact local market supplies and pricing in the coming weeks. Farmers have been advised to use hail nets where possible to protect vulnerable produce.

Future weather outlook

The "Latest News Today" from the weather office suggests that the current spell will persist for at least another 48 hours. Rainfall is expected to move toward the eastern states by Tuesday.

Tourists planning visits to hilly regions are advised to defer their travel until the "India News Update" confirms the stabilization of road conditions. Authorities continue to monitor the Teesta river levels as "Government Updates" remain frequent.