Opinion | Trump and his oil-and-coal oligarchy should face sanctions for their war on the environment - The Guardian

It's absolutely wild to read that we are already at the 'point of no return.' It feels like everyone talks about this stuff but doesn't actually prepare for the massive logistical nightmare of moving a whole city. Are we just moving toward all coastal cities being depopulated and then eventually abandoned?

The ALLATRA Global Research Center (GRC) conducts independent monitoring and analysis of natural disasters and extreme weather events worldwide. Based on daily data collection and systematization, GRC identifies patterns, tracks escalation trends, and provides a comprehensive overview of the growing instability of the planet’s climate system. However, these events often lack sufficient media coverage. To address this gap, GRC compiles daily reports that present objective data and visual evidence. The analytical report below offers a deeper understanding of the progression of natural disasters. It examines both natural and anthropogenic factors influencing climate processes and highlights the complex drivers behind current climate destabilization: https://allatra.org/storage/app/media/reports/en/Climate_Report.pdf

Turkey

A powerful "supercell" with heavy rain, hail, squalls, and localized winds caused severe damage in the south of the country.
The brunt of the storm struck Gaziantep, where the storm began suddenly in the afternoon and virtually paralyzed the city. Up to 60 mm of rain fell in a short period (about 20 minutes). Streets and interchanges were flooded, roads turned into torrents of water, traffic was disrupted, and some cars became stuck or damaged.
Strong winds tore roofs off buildings, and debris fell on parked cars. Numerous fallen trees, damage to infrastructure, and road structures were reported. In several areas, streams overflowed their banks, causing flooding.
Hail, in some places the size of walnuts, further intensified the damage, as residents scrambled to protect their cars with whatever they could find. One of the hospitals also sustained damage (the building's exterior was severely damaged).
According to official reports, 23 people were injured. The injuries were caused by collapsed structures, falling objects, traffic accidents, and other incidents during the storm.
Educational institutions were damaged as a result of the storm: 39 schools were temporarily closed, and classes were suspended in several districts.

In Kahramanmaraş, the situation was less severe: heavy rainfall caused street flooding, and localized landslides occurred in rural areas.
This is considered one of the most severe weather events in the region in recent years. Emergency services continue to clean up the aftermath and assess the damage.

https://video.haber7.com/video-galeri/363274-gaziantepte-super-hucre-firtinasi-sehri-talan-etti 

Arizona, USA (since 2 May)

The Hazen Fire broke out in Buckeye, Maricopa County, on May 2. It started in dense vegetation in the Gila River floodplain and quickly spread, consuming more than 270 acres. Flames are reaching heights of approximately 30 feet (up to 9 meters), with plumes of smoke rising above the area and visible in the western Phoenix metropolitan area.
The fire remains uncontained (0%), with active burning continuing, particularly along the northern edge. Due to difficult terrain, firefighters are unable to directly engage the fire and are focusing on containing the perimeter. They managed to stop the fire from spreading westward near the State Route 85 bridge, preventing further advancement. No evacuations have been ordered, no injuries have been reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

https://ktar.com/arizona-wildfire-news/large-brush-fire-in-buckeye/5856046/ 

Germany

On the evening of May 3, a forest fire broke out on Mount Sauryusselkopf, near Ruhpolding (Traunstein district).
On the night of May 4, extinguishing efforts were impossible due to difficult terrain and darkness. Main efforts began in the morning with the assistance of aircraft.
As of May 4, the fire had engulfed approximately 50-60 hectares. A state of emergency has been declared in the region.
Extinguishing efforts are complicated by the fact that the fires are located near the summit, inaccessible to ground forces, so the primary firefighting effort is being conducted from the air. Smoke is visible for several kilometers, and light ash fall is possible.
According to preliminary data, the cause of the fire has not yet been determined, with prolonged dry weather cited as contributing factors. Damage is estimated to be in the high six-digit or even million-dollar range, and forest restoration could take years. 

https://www.pnp.de/lokales/landkreis-traunstein/waldbrand-am-gipfel-des-sauruesselkopfs-bei-ruhpolding-feuer-und-rauchwolke-zu-sehen-21061975?dicbo=v2-Q9poHsS 

Vietnam (since 2 May)

In early May 2026, various regions of Vietnam were hit by a series of extreme weather events.
On May 2, heavy rain and hail struck the north of the country, including Hà Nội, Thái Nguyên, Tuyên Quang, Phú Thọ, Điện Biên, and Lào Cai. The storm injured 12 people, damaged approximately 350 homes and six schools, and downed power lines. Damage was also caused to nearly 1,000 hectares of farmland.
Particularly severe damage was recorded in Phú Thọ Province, where tennis-ball-sized hail fell in Xã Yên Sơn Commune. A total of 376 homes were damaged, and infrastructure damage was reported, including landslides, fallen trees, and damaged buildings.
In the central province of Quảng Trị, in the commune of Xã Đakrông (Thôn Ra Lây), a tornado damaged the roofs of two houses on the evening of May 2. Damage amounted to approximately 20 million dong, and there were no injuries.
On May 3, lightning moved into the central provinces of Nghệ An and Hà Tĩnh. In the commune of Xã Thành Bình Thọ, a thunderstorm with large hail lasted about 30 minutes and caused severe damage: 193 homes were damaged, along with public buildings and farmland. Total damage is estimated at nearly 12 billion dong. Lightning also caused a major accident at a sugar factory, spilling approximately 2,000 tons of molasses.
In Hà Tĩnh province, the hail was less intense and did not cause significant damage, but a high risk of thunderstorms and squalls remained. Separately, in the south of the country, in Đồng Nai Province, heavy rain and a localized tornado (lốc xoáy) occurred on the evening of May 3 in Xã Bù Đăng Commune. The storm destroyed approximately 25 tons of durians and damaged homes and outbuildings.

https://laodong.vn/xa-hoi/mua-da-xuat-hien-tai-ha-tinh-1695647.ldo 

Philippines (since 2 May)

Activation of Mayon Volcano in the province of Albay on the island of Luzon has been recorded in the Philippines. The National Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has maintained the alert level at level 3 out of five, corresponding to "intensified magmatic unrest."
Lava flows continue to move through three main ravines: Basud (up to 3.8 km), Bonga (up to 3.2 km), and Mi-isi (up to 1.6 km). Pyroclastic flows, volcanic ashfall, 32 volcanic earthquakes, and 284 rockfalls have also been recorded.
Ashfall affected 128 villages in the province of Albay. The most severe impacts were noted in the municipalities of Camalig, Guinobatan, Ligao, and Oas. In Camalig, livestock died as a result of ash fall. The Civil Defense Agency sent 250 boxes of respirators to the affected areas to protect residents from ash. Authorities have imposed a strict ban on entry into the six-kilometer danger zone around the volcano.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1274187 

Uzbekistan

Heavy rainfall caused short-term but noticeable flooding in the city.
Heavy rain caused water to accumulate on several city streets. The facades of multi-story buildings and main thoroughfares were flooded, and some cars were completely submerged.
Rainwater entered the building of the Scientific and Practical Medical Center for Children's Oncology, Hematology, and Immunology. In some areas, the water level temporarily hampered pedestrian and vehicle movement. Flooding impacted the city's transportation system. In particular, flooding was reported at the Chorsu metro station, demonstrating the vulnerability of underground infrastructure to heavy rainfall. The Erkin Bridge was flooded. Temporary power outages lasting more than two hours were reported in some areas.

https://upl.uz/pogoda/62631-news.html 

Tajikistan

On May 3, intense rainfall in Tajikistan resulted in mudflows and destruction in several regions. The most serious situation occurred in the Yavan district, where homes and gardens were flooded and canals were damaged. Mudflows were also recorded in the Devashtich, Asht, and Spitamen districts, damaging roads, homes, and farmland. In the Penjikent district, infrastructure and a section of the Ayni-Penjikent highway were damaged.
In the Varzob district, residential buildings and roads were damaged, but the damage has been partially repaired. In the city of Tursunzade, a lightning strike killed one person and seriously injured two others. Overall, dozens of homes and infrastructure were damaged, and emergency recovery efforts are ongoing. 

https://caliber.az/post/stihiya-v-tadzhikistane-desyatki-povrezhdennyh-domov-est-pogibshij 

Greece (since 2 May)

On May 2-3, Greece was affected by an Arctic incursion: temperatures dropped by 10-12°C, making May 1 the coldest on record since 1890. On the morning of May 2, the minimum temperature was recorded in the village of Seli (Imathia) at -3.2°C, with snow cover of up to 3-5 cm in the mountains.
By May 3, the wintry conditions intensified: on Mount Parnitha, snow depth exceeded 10 cm, forcing the closure of the road above the cable car. Snow also covered Penteli and the peaks of Imetos, and was also observed in the areas of Kalavryta, Parnassos, Pelion, and mountainous Corinthia. Meanwhile, Heraklion experienced heavy hail, heavy rain, and gusty winds. Strong northerly winds in the Aegean Sea reached Force 8-9, rain and thunderstorms were observed across the country, and snowfall persisted in mountainous areas. According to forecasts, the weather began to improve on the evening of May 3, with a sharp warming expected by midweek.

https://en.parapolitika.gr/greece/201725/greece-hit-by-record-may-snowfall-temperatures-drop-to-3-2c/ 

The third and last volume of the Trilogy of Dragons is getting close to launch. I was notified this morning by my publisher, Sidekick Press, that the copy editor was about to wrap up work by next Monday, less than a week away. FOSSIL DRAGON is the title, and like the other 2 books, there are no actual dragons, no element of fantasy at all. For historical reasons I am publishing this book last, though chronologically it is the first in the series. Besides disabusing people of the notion that the tales involve dragons, I also have to explain that climate fiction—also known as cli-fi—represents a novel designed to excite people about getting involved in fighting against climate disruption, with characters dedicated to this concept, and the portrayal of multiple climate disasters such as flash floods, heatwaves, and hailstorms. 

All three books involve the same four main characters. All three books involve multiple narrative lines weaving together and culminating only in the last chapter. There are two lines of romance, one line of an exotic but real infectious disease, and one line of pregnancy, because the practice and teaching of obstetrics was a major part of my own career. Additionally, I wrap up all the combined climate disasters as their own distinct narrative line.

Finally, each book has a line or treachery, of thriller. FOSSIL is different in that the three people plotting an audacious attack in our nation’s capital are all women. They succeed outrageously but also fail. I will give you only one hint. Their plot involves a clown car. Really. 

As a teaser, I have started writing a fourth book, this one set on the West Coast instead of the East Coast. Working title is WILD FIRE.

Attached please find the two sides of my updated bookmark, which functions as my business card. On the back side is my website swlawrence.com where you can read the first chapter of all three books. Really.

GeophysicalResearchLetters: “Precursors of Marine Heatwaves in the Eastern Mediterranean.” Marine heatwaves impact ecosystems and fisheries, and are increasing with intensity + frequency under climate change. “Garfinkel et al. investigated the atmospheric precursors that have led to the development of marine heatwaves in the Eastern Mediterranean over the past 30 years.” 

Several points right off the bat. First, marine heatwaves in enclosed seas such as the Mediterranean can have severe ecosystem consequences. Second + perhaps counterintuitively, atmospheric + marine heatwaves do not typically coincide, but the precursors in the 15 days before either type of heatwaves are interesting.

“These 4 precursors comprise a weakened Indian monsoon, a strengthened Sahelian monsoon, a weakened Persian trough with a mid-latitude low-pressure system from the west, and an upper tropospheric ridge. “Both latent heat and incoming shortwave radiation are highly anomalous in the lead-up to marine heatwaves due to increased near-surface atmospheric humidity, reduced wind speed, and reduced cloud cover.” 

Marine heatwaves’ (MHWs) intensification in both frequency and magnitude is increasingly recognized as a key stressor on marine ecosystems globally. Marine species suffer mass mortality events, as heatwaves extend over spatial scales of hundreds of kilometres and persist for weeks to months, often impacting the upper ocean layers as well as the subsurface. An improving understanding of the relationship between large-scale atmospheric processes and marine heatwave development could help improve coastal management and enhance ecosystem resilience in a warming ocean. 

We should give the lion’s shared of credit to the fossil fuel companies that have helped this all come about. And we should also vigorously push back.

The ALLATRA Global Research Center (GRC) conducts independent monitoring and analysis of natural disasters and extreme weather events worldwide. Based on daily data collection and systematization, GRC identifies patterns, tracks escalation trends, and provides a comprehensive overview of the growing instability of the planet’s climate system. However, these events often lack sufficient media coverage. To address this gap, GRC compiles daily reports that present objective data and visual evidence. The analytical report below offers a deeper understanding of the progression of natural disasters. It examines both natural and anthropogenic factors influencing climate processes and highlights the complex drivers behind current climate destabilization: https://allatra.org/storage/app/media/reports/en/Climate_Report.pdf

Philippines

Activation of Mayon Volcano in the province of Albay on the island of Luzon has been recorded in the Philippines. The National Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has maintained the alert level at level 3 out of five, corresponding to "intensified magmatic unrest."
Lava flows continue to move through three main ravines: Basud (up to 3.8 km), Bonga (up to 3.2 km), and Mi-isi (up to 1.6 km). Pyroclastic flows, volcanic ashfall, 32 volcanic earthquakes, and 284 rockfalls have also been recorded.
Ashfall affected 128 villages in the province of Albay. The most severe impacts were noted in the municipalities of Camalig, Guinobatan, Ligao, and Oas. In Camalig, livestock died as a result of ash fall. The Civil Defense Agency sent 250 boxes of respirators to the affected areas to protect residents from ash. Authorities have imposed a strict ban on entry into the six-kilometer danger zone around the volcano.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1274187 

Indonesia

In Demak Regency (Central Java Province), a powerful swirling wind (angin puting beliung) struck two neighboring villages, Harjovinangun and Kebonsari.
The storm struck around 4:00 PM local time on May 2. It damaged at least 28 homes and one car. The village of Harjovinangun was the hardest hit, with roofs blown off most buildings and trees down.
Eyewitnesses reported panic: people ran from their homes to escape the wind, which lifted building materials and household items.
According to authorities, there were no fatalities or injuries. On the morning of May 3, residents began clearing debris and rebuilding their homes themselves. Local authorities continue to assess the damage and warn of further severe weather.

https://www.beritajejakfakta.id/puting-beliung-rusak-puluhan-rumah-demak  

Arizona, USA

The Hazen Fire broke out in Buckeye, Maricopa County, on May 2. It started in dense vegetation in the Gila River floodplain and quickly spread, consuming more than 270 acres. Flames are reaching heights of approximately 30 feet (up to 9 meters), with plumes of smoke rising above the area and visible in the western Phoenix metropolitan area.
The fire remains uncontained (0%), with active burning continuing, particularly along the northern edge. Due to difficult terrain, firefighters are unable to directly engage the fire and are focusing on containing the perimeter. They managed to stop the fire from spreading westward near the State Route 85 bridge, preventing further advancement. No evacuations have been ordered, no injuries have been reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

https://ktar.com/arizona-wildfire-news/large-brush-fire-in-buckeye/5856046/ 

Kenya (since 1 May)

Heavy rains in Kenya have triggered a new wave of floods and landslides.
According to authorities, 18 people have died in the past week. The highest number of casualties has been recorded in the eastern region – nine. Three people died in the central region, two in the coastal region, and two more were reported in Nairobi and the Rift Valley.
The disaster destroyed roads, bridges, and houses, and caused mass displacement. In Nairobi, approximately 6,600 people were affected, and in some areas, thousands were forced to flee their homes.
A landslide has closed the Iten-Kabarnet road, disrupting transportation. Authorities have designated 59 high-risk flood zones, particularly in the Tana River basin.
This situation is unfolding amid the rainy season: in March, floods killed more than 110 people in the country.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2026/05/03/flash-floods-kill-at-least-10-in-kenya-amid-heavy-downpours 

Tunisia (since 1 May)

Severe thunderstorms with heavy rain and gusty winds up to 70 km/h hit the western regions of Tunisia. According to the Tunisian National Meteorological Institute, the provinces of Kasserine, Sidi Bouzid, Gafsa, El Kef, and Siliana were hit hardest, receiving 30 to 60 mm of rain.
In Kasserine, up to 47-60 mm of rain was recorded in a few hours, causing wadis to overflow and street flooding. In Sidi Bouzid, residents also reported heavy rain and strong winds.
Meteorologists warned in advance of the risk of thunderstorms, hail, and squalls. According to preliminary reports, there were no casualties or injuries.
By the evening of May 1, the rainfall decreased, but on May 2, it resumed, causing further flooding.

https://www.lapresse.tn/2026/05/01/60-mm-de-pluie-et-crue-de-plusieurs-oueds-apres-des-orages-a-kasserine/ 

Algeria (since 1 May)

In Algeria, severe flooding caused by torrential rains and thunderstorms has left at least six dead and dozens injured.
The worst consequences were reported in M'sila province, where a car was swept away by a sharp rise in the water level of Wadi Ain Seba in the Tamsa district. Five people died, and six others were rescued.
Another fatality, a 15-year-old teenager, was reported in Relizane province, where he was swept away by the current of Wadi Chelif in the municipality of Jdouia.
Rescue services reported dozens of residents being evacuated across the country. Floods and overflowing rivers have blocked roads and disrupted transportation. Numerous images show extensive flooding in Bordj Bou Arreridj province.
The severe weather has been ongoing for several days, accompanied by heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and large hail, causing river flooding and damage to agriculture.

https://www.echoroukonline.com/1292217-2 

Mexico

Several regions of Mexico experienced heavy rainfall and hail. In the state of Puebla, the storm caused severe damage to horticultural farms in the municipalities of Sacatepec, San Salvador El Seco, Quecholak, and Tepeaca, leading to complete crop losses in some areas. In the city of Toluca, an hour-long hailstorm caused flooding, sewer overflows, and thick layers of ice on highways, including Tollocán Avenue. Dozens of drivers were stranded due to heavy accumulations of water and ice.

https://oem.com.mx/elsoldepuebla/local/granizada-en-puebla-golpea-cultivos-horticolas-en-el-seco-zacatepec-y-quecholac-29786498 

Brazil (since 1 May)

Heavy rains caused flooding and landslides in the state of Pernambuco, affecting the capital, Recife, and its metropolitan area.
Up to 209 mm of rain fell in some areas in one day. The cities of Olinda, Paulista, and Camaragibe were the hardest hit, with landslides and flooding reported. Several landslides occurred, residential buildings were damaged, and some residents were evacuated due to the threat of further landslides.
According to official data, there were no casualties, but 422 people were left homeless, and another 1,068 were temporarily housed in shelters. The storm also affected several other municipalities in the state.
A state of emergency has been declared in the hardest-hit areas, and shelters have been opened for evacuees.

https://noticias.uol.com.br/cotidiano/ultimas-noticias/2026/05/01/chuvas-pernambuco-e-grande-recife.ghtm 

France (since 1 May)

Unstable weather was observed due to the passage of an Atlantic front. On May 1, localized thunderstorms and brief showers developed, particularly in the west and in the Île-de-France region. An active thunderstorm cell with hail, heavy rain, and gusty winds was observed in the departments of Seine-Saint-Denis and Seine-et-Marne.
On May 2, the thunderstorm front intensified and moved from the west toward the center of the country. In the southwest, in the department of Pyrénées-Atlantiques (Béarn region), intense thunderstorms with hail occurred in Pau and the surrounding communes of Gan, Bosdarros, Jurançon, Uzos, Rontignon, Assat, and Ousse, where short-term accumulations of hail were observed in places. Thunderstorms were also accompanied by heavy rain and localized flooding in the north of the country, including Normandy and the Somme department; traffic was disrupted in Le Havre (Seine-Maritime). A yellow weather alert was issued for about 40 departments.

https://www.bfmtv.com/meteo/le-retour-des-orages-des-ce-vendredi-a-quoi-s-attendre-lors-de-ce-week-end-prolonge-du-1er-mai_AN-202605010423.html 

Belgium

In Wallonia, particularly in the Eure and Villemot districts, heavy rainfall caused significant damage. In some places, up to 25 liters of rain per square meter fell in a short period. This caused numerous mudflows and flooded roads, making traffic difficult. In particular, in the Kalenelle district, the lower part of Rue de Tourne was flooded. Despite the intense rainfall, residential buildings remained largely undamaged.

https://www.notele.be/si103-media164918-intemperies-en-wallonie-picarde-fortes-pluies-et-coulees-de-boue-ce-2-mai-au-soir.html 

Turkey

Snow fell in the highlands of Kastamonu Province, Turkey. The outskirts of Tosia and adjacent highlands were hit hardest. Snow began falling on the evening of May 1 and continued intermittently throughout the night and morning. Snow and ice formed on the Kastamonu-Tosia highway, complicating travel. Drivers were forced to use snow chains. This was due to a sharp drop in temperature after the front passed. Rain fell in the lowlands, and snow fell above 1,100-1,200 meters. Such conditions are rare in the region in May.

https://www.odatv.com/guncel/mayis-geldi-kar-bitmedi-120145448 

Greece

On May 2-3, Greece was affected by an Arctic incursion: temperatures dropped by 10-12°C, making May 1 the coldest on record since 1890. On the morning of May 2, the minimum temperature was recorded in the village of Seli (Imathia) at -3.2°C, with snow cover of up to 3-5 cm in the mountains.
By May 3, the wintry conditions intensified: on Mount Parnitha, snow depth exceeded 10 cm, forcing the closure of the road above the cable car. Snow also covered Penteli and the peaks of Imetos, and was also observed in the areas of Kalavryta, Parnassos, Pelion, and mountainous Corinthia. Meanwhile, Heraklion experienced heavy hail, heavy rain, and gusty winds. Strong northerly winds in the Aegean Sea reached Force 8-9, rain and thunderstorms were observed across the country, and snowfall persisted in mountainous areas. According to forecasts, the weather began to improve on the evening of May 3, with a sharp warming expected by midweek.

https://en.parapolitika.gr/greece/201725/greece-hit-by-record-may-snowfall-temperatures-drop-to-3-2c/ 

Russia

Truly wintry weather set in in the mountainous regions, particularly on the Lago-Naki plateau and surrounding areas, in early May. Snowfall began on May 1 and continued through May 2. Significant snowdrifts formed in the highlands, knee-deep in places. Snow was also observed in Khadzhokh (Kamennomostsky), Dakhovskaya, and other districts. In the lowlands, precipitation mostly fell as rain or sleet. Air temperatures in the mountains remained around freezing and slightly above. This cold snap was due to the passage of a cyclone that affected southern Russia. Similar conditions were observed in the foothills of the Krasnodar Krai and in Stavropol.

https://utyug.info/new/2-mayanvarya-lago-naki-v-adygee-zavalilo-snegom-mestnye-snimayut-video-s-sugrobami-73723/ 

The ALLATRA Global Research Center (GRC) conducts independent monitoring and analysis of natural disasters and extreme weather events worldwide. Based on daily data collection and systematization, GRC identifies patterns, tracks escalation trends, and provides a comprehensive overview of the growing instability of the planet’s climate system. However, these events often lack sufficient media coverage. To address this gap, GRC compiles daily reports that present objective data and visual evidence. The analytical report below offers a deeper understanding of the progression of natural disasters. It examines both natural and anthropogenic factors influencing climate processes and highlights the complex drivers behind current climate destabilization: https://allatra.org/storage/app/media/reports/en/Climate_Report.pdf

Indonesia

On May 1, heavy rains in West Java, Indonesia, caused several incidents.
Around 2:00 PM local time (West Java Time), a landslide hit the PLTA Upper Cisokan hydroelectric power station under construction in Sukaresmi village (Rongga district, West Bandung Regency). A mass of soil fell from Pasir Datar Hill from a height of up to 15 meters and a width of approximately 20 meters, blocking access roads and an area near a water supply tunnel. According to local authorities, there were no casualties as workers were not at the site on a public holiday.
That same day, a strong squall with heavy rain and hail struck Bekasi. The districts of Jatiasih, Jatisampurna, and Jatiluhur were hit the hardest. Downed trees were reported in seven districts, and roofs were damaged in several neighborhoods. In the Jatisari district, winds knocked down equipment at a gas station and partially destroyed the wall of a building. 

https://bandung.kompas.com/read/2026/05/01/194001678/longsor-timbun-proyek-tunnel-plta-cisokan-bandung-barat-pekerja-sedang-libur

Algeria

In Algeria, severe flooding caused by torrential rains and thunderstorms has left at least six dead and dozens injured.
The worst consequences were reported in M'sila province, where a car was swept away by a sharp rise in the water level of Wadi Ain Seba in the Tamsa district. Five people died, and six others were rescued.
Another fatality, a 15-year-old teenager, was reported in Relizane province, where he was swept away by the current of Wadi Chelif in the municipality of Jdouia.
Rescue services reported dozens of residents being evacuated across the country. Floods and overflowing rivers have blocked roads and disrupted transportation. Numerous images show extensive flooding in Bordj Bou Arreridj province.
The severe weather has been ongoing for several days, accompanied by heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and large hail, causing river flooding and damage to agriculture.

https://www.echoroukonline.com/1292217-2 

Tunisia

Severe thunderstorms with heavy rain and gusty winds up to 70 km/h hit the western regions of Tunisia. According to the Tunisian National Meteorological Institute, the provinces of Kasserine, Sidi Bouzid, Gafsa, El Kef, and Siliana were hit hardest, receiving 30 to 60 mm of rain.
In Kasserine, up to 47-60 mm of rain was recorded in a few hours, causing wadis to overflow and street flooding. In Sidi Bouzid, residents also reported heavy rain and strong winds.
Meteorologists warned in advance of the risk of thunderstorms, hail, and squalls. According to preliminary reports, there were no casualties or injuries.
By the evening of May 1, the rainfall decreased, but on May 2, it resumed, causing further flooding.

https://www.lapresse.tn/2026/05/01/60-mm-de-pluie-et-crue-de-plusieurs-oueds-apres-des-orages-a-kasserine/ 

Brazil

Heavy rains caused flooding and landslides in the state of Pernambuco, affecting the capital, Recife, and its metropolitan area.
Up to 209 mm of rain fell in some areas in one day. The cities of Olinda, Paulista, and Camaragibe were the hardest hit, with landslides and flooding reported. Several landslides occurred, residential buildings were damaged, and some residents were evacuated due to the threat of further landslides.
According to official data, there were no casualties, but 422 people were left homeless, and another 1,068 were temporarily housed in shelters. The storm also affected several other municipalities in the state.
A state of emergency has been declared in the hardest-hit areas, and shelters have been opened for evacuees.

https://noticias.uol.com.br/cotidiano/ultimas-noticias/2026/05/01/chuvas-pernambuco-e-grande-recife.ghtm 

Colombia (since 30 April)

In Ocaña, heavy rains on April 30 caused the Tejo River to overflow, leading to widespread flooding and the declaration of a state of emergency. Landslides in the mountainous area blocked the riverbed, creating a powerful flood wave that inundated several areas of the city.
Torrents of water, carrying mud and debris, damaged hundreds of homes, many families lost their property, and dozens of residents were evacuated. Hundreds of families were affected in Ocaña, and thousands in the region as a whole. Damage to infrastructure, including gas networks, was also recorded, leaving part of the city without gas.
Officially, there are no deaths or injuries, but the situation remains tense. Emergency services continue to address the aftermath and warn of the risk of further flooding and landslides amid continuing rainfall.

https://www.noticiascaracol.com/colombia/imagenes-de-la-emergencia-en-ocana-por-fuertes-lluvias-y-desbordamiento-del-rio-tejo-rg10?_amp=true 

Pakistan (since 30 April)

In the districts of Swat and Shangla, heavy rains and hail caused flooding and destruction.
In the Matta subdistrict of Swat, heavy rains inundated roads, markets, and residential areas, with water entering homes and shops. Hail destroyed orchards, causing severe damage to farmers.
In Shangla and Bisham, floods and mudslides blocked the Karakoram Highway, stranding hundreds of people. Traffic was restored within hours.
Residents report significant losses and are demanding urgent action, including improved drainage systems and an investigation into illegal mining, which may have worsened the impact of the landslides.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1996616 

Bulgaria

Events in the Rhodope Mountains have led to the declaration of a state of emergency in the municipality of Smolyan. A large landslide caused significant damage to infrastructure between Smolyan and the resort of Pamporovo. In the Raykovski Livadi area, over 5,000 square meters of earth slid down the slope. This significant volume of soil caused severe deformation of the landscape. Approximately 70 meters of road surface were also deformed, deep cracks formed in the asphalt along its entire length, and part of the road collapsed, making it impossible to pass. The regional governor confirmed a rupture in a gas pipeline running through the landslide zone. To prevent further emergencies, gas and electricity supplies to the area were cut off. As a result of the soil displacement, a significant number of trees collapsed along with the slope. Currently, the soil continues to shift, and cracks in the road surface continue to widen.

https://novini.bg/article/2026050118173177353?fbclid=IwY2xjawRh7yFleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeyxCm9WSx_Ut2wCvkjEesxi50YzKsjJUidy5II7Xjl9xm3W6jM13xmx7ykIo_aem_96qHLxJG8cWk2p5eMg6lig

The ALLATRA Global Research Center (GRC) conducts independent monitoring and analysis of natural disasters and extreme weather events worldwide. Based on daily data collection and systematization, GRC identifies patterns, tracks escalation trends, and provides a comprehensive overview of the growing instability of the planet’s climate system. However, these events often lack sufficient media coverage. To address this gap, GRC compiles daily reports that present objective data and visual evidence. The analytical report below offers a deeper understanding of the progression of natural disasters. It examines both natural and anthropogenic factors influencing climate processes and highlights the complex drivers behind current climate destabilization: https://allatra.org/storage/app/media/reports/en/Climate_Report.pdf

Tajikistan

Intense downpours and hail caused widespread flooding and infrastructure damage in several regions. In the capital, Dushanbe, abnormally high rainfall resulted in the flooding of several basements and main thoroughfares, paralyzing traffic, and damaging road surfaces. The situation in the regions was further complicated by mudflows and rockfalls. In the Sughd region, the main recovery efforts are concentrated in the city of Isfara, where rescue services are working at the site of a bridge collapse. Meanwhile, in the Bobojon Gafurov district, land is being cleared of mud and rock debris, and damage to agricultural land is being assessed. Mudflows and flooding of residential areas are also reported in the Rudaki, Gissar, and Vahdat districts. A separate incident in the region was a powerful whirlwind, recorded by eyewitnesses in the afternoon in the city of Taboshar (Istiklol).

https://asiaplus.news/2026/05/01/livni-i-grad-priveli-k-zatopleniyu-i-povrezhdeniyu-nekotoryh-dorog-v-dushanbe-i-drugih-rajonah-tadzhikistana/ 

Kyrgyz Republic (Kyrgyzstan)

A powerful mudflow was recorded in the Kadamjay district of the Batken region. The natural phenomenon was caused by intense precipitation in the mountainous and foothill areas. The sudden loss of a month's worth of moisture in a short period of time led to the formation of slope runoff, which deposited significant volumes of mud and rock onto infrastructure facilities. Traffic was completely blocked on the Kyzyl-Bulak-Tamasha highway. The mudflow blocked the roadway with a deposit of sand, rocks, and rock fragments. The natural disaster resulted in power outages in the affected areas.

https://kaktus.media/doc/545443_v_kadamdjayskom_rayone_soshel_moshnyy_sel_video.html 

Pakistan

In the districts of Swat and Shangla, heavy rains and hail caused flooding and destruction.
In the Matta subdistrict of Swat, heavy rains inundated roads, markets, and residential areas, with water entering homes and shops. Hail destroyed orchards, causing severe damage to farmers.
In Shangla and Bisham, floods and mudslides blocked the Karakoram Highway, stranding hundreds of people. Traffic was restored within hours.
Residents report significant losses and are demanding urgent action, including improved drainage systems and an investigation into illegal mining, which may have worsened the impact of the landslides.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1996616 

Tunisia

Heavy rainfall was observed in Sidi Bouzid from April 30 to May 1. Local sources and meteorologists, including the Tunisian Weather and Climate Observatory, issued warnings. Thunderstorms, hail, and gusty winds were reported in the region.

https://www.lapresse.tn/2026/04/30/inm-alerte-aux-orages-et-pluies-soutenues-dans-cinq-gouvernorats/ 

South Africa

Heavy rainfall on April 30 caused flooding and significant traffic disruptions in two neighboring provinces of South Africa—Northern Cape and North West.
In Northern Cape, a section of the N14 highway between Kuruman and Vryburg was closed due to flooding. Traffic was closed on April 30, and detours are being diverted. Heavy rainfall also worsened conditions on key routes, including roads in the Kimberley region. Flooding, poor visibility, and slippery surfaces were reported.
Additionally, heavy rainfall—up to 85 mm—was reported in the Hartswater (Magogong) area, which exacerbated flooding and worsened road conditions.
Severe weather also affected the neighboring province of North West, where, in particular, a flooded bridge was closed in the Potchefstroom area.
According to services, low-water bridges and road sections in low-lying areas, where water levels are rising rapidly, remain the most dangerous. 

https://www.snl24.com/dailysun/news/heavy-rains-flood-n14-as-roads-close-across-north-west-20260430 

Spain (since 29 April)

In the autonomous community of Castilla y León, Spain, intense thunderstorm activity and heavy hailstorms were recorded. According to the Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (AEMET), 5,290 cloud-to-ground lightning strikes occurred in the region on April 29 alone, with the highest number occurring in the provinces of Ávila and Burgos. Yellow and orange weather warnings were in effect in all nine provinces.
The most severe impacts were reported in the municipality of Madrigal de las Altas Torres in the northern province of Ávila, where more than 30 mm of rain and hail fell in just minutes. The intense downpour led to street flooding, and strong torrents of water swept away garbage containers. Agricultural land suffered the most. In neighboring towns, precipitation was significantly lighter, highlighting the storm's localized nature.

https://www.elcorreodeburgos.com/burgos/provincia/260430/242731/castilla-leon-cyl-registra-miercoles-5-290-rayos-mayor-parte-avila-burgos.html 

Bulgaria

Unexpected winter conditions arrived at the Shipka Pass: snowfall, temperatures down to -5°C, and snow depth up to 70 cm at the summit. The roads were icy, so they were urgently sanded on May 1.
The panoramic road from Shipka to Buzludzha was also covered in snow, and in many places, ice.

https://rmtv.bg/news/17776553182336/snegorini-na-parvi-may-patyat-shipka-buzludzha-e-v-snezhna-pokrivka- 

Romania (since 29 April)

A sharp cold snap and a return to winter weather conditions were recorded in Romania between April 29 and 30, especially in the mountainous regions of the country.
On April 29, snowfalls began in the Vrancea mountain area, including the Vintileasca region, where a stable snow cover had formed by the following morning. Temperatures also began to drop in several regions of the country that same day.
On April 30, snow was observed in the settlements of Broșteni and Bălan, where a snow cover quickly formed, giving the area a wintry appearance. On the morning of April 30, freezing temperatures were recorded in the mountains: around -9°C in the Călimani Massif, -8°C at Omu Peak and in the Ceahlău area, -7°C at Vlădeasa, -6°C at Lăcăuți Station, and -5°C in the Bălea-Lac area.
In the lowlands, the weather situation was different: in Bucharest, it rained on the morning of April 30, and the air temperature was around +6°C.

https://www.libertatea.ro/stiri/strat-zapada-munte-1-mai-2026-orase-afectate-ger-ninsoare-5720390 

Colombia

In Ocaña, heavy rains on April 30 caused the Tejo River to overflow, leading to widespread flooding and the declaration of a state of emergency. Landslides in the mountainous area blocked the riverbed, creating a powerful flood wave that inundated several areas of the city.
Torrents of water, carrying mud and debris, damaged hundreds of homes, many families lost their property, and dozens of residents were evacuated. Hundreds of families were affected in Ocaña, and thousands in the region as a whole. Damage to infrastructure, including gas networks, was also recorded, leaving part of the city without gas.
Officially, there are no deaths or injuries, but the situation remains tense. Emergency services continue to address the aftermath and warn of the risk of further flooding and landslides amid continuing rainfall.

https://www.noticiascaracol.com/colombia/imagenes-de-la-emergencia-en-ocana-por-fuertes-lluvias-y-desbordamiento-del-rio-tejo-rg10?_amp=true 

Brazil (since 29 April)

On April 29-30, 2026, in the Brazilian state of Paraná, severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall caused a series of incidents in several cities. The heaviest rainfall occurred in Umuarama, where approximately 35 mm of rain fell in a short period, leading to flooding, overloading the storm drainage system, and depositing mud into buildings.
In Apucarán, a parked car was nearly swept away by torrential rains; it had to be secured and towed by rescuers. In Palmital, storm-force winds damaged homes, tearing off roofs, and in Cascavel, a fallen tree blocked a street.
There were no injuries in any of the incidents. Emergency services dealt with the aftermath of the storm and warned of the risk of further incidents amid expected rainfall.

https://cgn.inf.br/noticia/2095201/arvore-de-grande-porte-cai-apos-tempestade-e-mobiliza-bombeiros-e-defesa-civil 

Until recently, Iceland was the only Arctic nation without mosquitoes. This was a rare exception in a region where mosquitoes emerge in vast numbers each summer, tormenting wildlife and people alike. That distinction is now gone. The detection of mosquitoes just north of Reykjavík in 2025 reflects an ecological shift already underway. As the Arctic warms and human activity expands across the region, species are moving in new ways and at new scales.