Highlights of the week of July 3-9
In early July, temperatures around the world are breaking records. On the other hand, some countries are facing catastrophic events.
Getting hotter in Europe
We discussed the issue of overheated ocean waters, particularly off the coast of the United Kingdom, in a previous Highlights of the Week. A few days later, it was officially confirmed by the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts that July is the hottest month on the planet in the history of weather observation. The average temperature on Earth reached a record high of 17.04°C on July 4.
It is interesting to note, however, that the current events are in complete agreement with those that were previously predicted by climate models. Professor Richard Betts, climate scientist at the Met Office and University of Exeter believes that this is a stark reminder of what humanity knew but failed to prevent. Specifically, of course, the accumulation of unimaginable greenhouse gases.
The developing El Niño phenomenon, the warming of the equatorial Pacific Ocean flow, also makes the situation worse. This climatic effect can cause serious catastrophes, in addition to the increase in global temperatures. For example, El Niño can cause hurricanes and storms, forest fires, and other disasters.
Riots in Europe are growing
France continues to fight the mass riots that swept the region after the murder of a teenager in Nanterre. Since then, more than a thousand people have been arrested, thousands of businesses and ATMs have been vandalized, and several highly controversial statements have been made, most notably by President Macron.
In one of his speeches, he said that computer games were the cause of the riots in the streets. In another, he suggested that internet censorship and the shutting down of social networks should be used to prevent demonstrations.
Just a few hours ago, the French government signed a document banning fireworks on Bastille Day, July 14. Of course, this only applies to those buying and setting off private fireworks. Scheduled public holiday events remain unchanged. This measure should protect cities from new acts of vandalism and destruction with pyrotechnics, according to the authorities.
All is not quiet in neighbouring Germany either. Riots and clashes with the police ended the Eritrean festival in Giessen. According to officials, more than 26 police officers were injured and more than 100 protesters were arrested.
Attempts by Eritrean refugees to disrupt the festival are not the first time the conflict has arisen. According to them, the festival is being held under the sponsorship of a pro-government organization. It is precisely because of the authorities that the protesters were forced to leave their homes.
Since the festival is being held on private property, the Giessen authorities have no control over what is happening. It was declared "undesirable". But no further action was taken.
