Two people have died and around 20 are feared swept away after cloudbursts and flash floods hit Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday. Torrential rains triggered a surge in the Manuni Khad, washing away a labour colony near the Indira Priyadarshini Hydroelectric project in Kangra. Three people are missing in Kullu following more cloudbursts, damaging houses, bridges, and roads. Rescue efforts by SDRF and local authorities are ongoing despite tough conditions. Heavy rains continue in several districts, with water levels rising in the Beas and Sutlej rivers. The MeT department has issued an orange alert for more rain and flash flood risk. (PC: NDTV)

On June 21, 2025, the Northern Hemisphere observed the summer solstice, the year’s longest day, when Earth’s north axis tilts maximally toward the Sun. The Sun reached its highest point at noon, yielding extended daylight though not peak temperatures, due to seasonal lag. Historically, the solstice has spiritual resonance symbolizing renewal, vitality and reflection and is marked by ancient rituals across cultures. Iconic sites like Stonehenge align with sunrise on this day, a feature still observed by thousands of Druids, pagans and tourists, echoing its ritual roots. This celestial event reminds us of Earth’s axial tilt and the cyclical nature of life and seasons.

On June 21, 2025, some 25,000 people druids, pagans, tourists, locals gathered at Stonehenge on Salisbury Plain to witness the summer solstice sunrise, marking the longest day of the year. Before dawn, temperatures were already around 18 °C; by lunchtime nearby Surrey, it reached 33.2 °C the UK’s hottest day so far prompting an amber heat-health alert. Attendees cheered as sunlight streamed through the Heel Stone into the monument’s heart. The rare access allowed peaceful, joyous celebrations among the standing stones. Experts believe Stonehenge aligns with solar events, reinforcing its role as an ancient solar calendar.

A dangerous and record-breaking heat wave is sweeping across a vast stretch of the U.S., affecting over 135 million Americans across the West, Midwest, and Northeast. Cities including Chicago, Indianapolis, St. Louis, Philadelphia, and Boston are experiencing extreme heat, with temperatures reaching upper 90s to 100°F, and heat indexes soaring well above that. The intense heat is expected to persist into next week, with Chicago forecast to hit 100°F for the first time in over a decade. Officials are urging people to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities, and use cooling centers to stay safe. (PC: ABC News)

An amber heat health alert has been issued across England as the UK recorded its hottest day of 2025. Temperatures reached 32.2°C in West London and are expected to rise further, possibly hitting 33°C this weekend. The alert warns of serious health risks, especially for older people and those with health problems. The UK Health Security Agency said the alert will last until Monday morning. The Met Office said more hot days and "tropical nights" are expected. People are being advised to stay cool, drink water, and check on neighbours. Councils and charities also warned of increased health risks. (PC: PA)

Global warming could breach the critical 1.5°C limit within just 3 years, top climate scientists warn. A new report says the world has only 130 billion tonnes left in its "carbon budget" — down from 500 billion in 2020 — due to record emissions. If current CO₂ output of 40 billion tonnes annually continues, the Paris Agreement’s goal is likely doomed. Last year saw record temperatures, already 1.36°C above pre-industrial levels. Lead author Prof Piers Forster said Earth's heating and sea-level rise are "accelerating." Scientists urge urgent, stringent cuts, stressing that “every fraction of warming” avoided can reduce future human suffering. (PC: BBC)

Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted on June 17, sending ash clouds 10,000 metres (32,800 feet) into the sky and prompting authorities to raise the alert level to its highest. The volcano, located in south-central Flores Timur district, unleashed thick grey smoke visible from 150km away. The danger zone has been expanded to 8km around the crater. While there are no reports of damage or casualties, residents were warned of potential lava flows due to rain. No flights were cancelled. The 1,584-metre volcano, paired with Mount Lewotobi Perempuan, last erupted fatally in November 2024, killing 9 and injuring dozens.

A yellow heat alert has been issued for most of England, with temperatures expected to reach 33°C this weekend. Only the North East and North West are not under warning. The alert starts Wednesday at noon and ends Sunday evening. The elderly and people with health issues are most at risk. The East of England may be hottest, possibly breaking this year’s record of 29.4°C. London Fire Brigade warned of wildfire risks due to dry weather. Experts advise staying indoors from 11am to 3pm, drinking water, and wearing hats and sunscreen. Ice cream makers say business is booming. (PC: PA)

The Met Office has issued a heatwave alert as temperatures are poised to hit 32 °C on Saturday in southern England—surpassing expectations and overshadowing summer highs in Barcelona (29 °C), Lisbon (29 °C) and Nice (30 °C). London will escalate from 29 °C on Thursday to 32 °C by the weekend, spreading warmth to Manchester, Newcastle and beyond. The rise is driven by sunny skies and warm southerly winds drawing air from continental Europe. However, rising humidity may bring localized heavy showers. The London Fire Brigade warns that tinder‑dry grass, after one of the driest springs, could fuel wildfires. Droughts persist in Yorkshire and the North West. Temperatures may ease early next week. (PC: The Independent & The Guardian)

Delhi endured an extreme heatwave on Thursday, with the "feels-like" temperature soaring to a staggering 52°C, although the official maximum temperature stood at 45.4°C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Friday, warning of severe heat-related health risks. The intense heat has already claimed lives, including a woman from Odisha who collapsed at a Delhi bus stop. Power and water demand have surged across the capital. The IMD attributes the sweltering weather to a delayed monsoon and hot westerly winds. Relief is expected from June 16, with possible light rain and a drop in temperature. Citizens are urged to take extreme precautions. (PC: India Today)