UK News
View All 9British Paralympian set to become first disabled man to LIVE in space
A British Paralympic medalist is set to become the first disabled man to live among the stars. John McFall - who clinched bronze at the 2008 Games in Beijing - could soon be launched into orbit to man the Haven-1 space station as part of a deal between the UK Space Agency and US-based space firm Vast. Haven-1, looking at a launch in less than a year, is set to become the first privately-funded lab to be sent into space. The 45-year-old sprinter became disabled after a horror motorbike accident in Thailand in 2000 forced him to have his right leg amputated. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say After his medal-winning performance in China, Dr McFall retired from athletics and later took up a place at Cardiff University to study medicine. Now an NHS surgeon, he was picked by the European Space Agency (ESA) to enroll in its Fly! Project - a scheme designed to give opportunities to those living with disabilities within the industry. He described the agreement signed with Vast as "incredibly exciting".Dr McFall said: "If we can make this mission happen, it won't just be a milestone for human spaceflight, it will send a powerful message about what people with disabilities are capable of, and that there should be no limit to what you can achieve - on Earth or in space."The Paralympian is now set to become the first Britain to launch into space in over a decade - following on from Tim Peake's mission to the International Space Station in 2015/16. Mr Peake hailed the 45-year-old as "an inspiration" to "everyone who has ever been told there are limits to what they can achieve".He added: "This agreement is a landmark moment for inclusive human spaceflight, and I hope it brings us one step closer to seeing John in space."Space has always pushed the boundaries of what's possible, and John's mission would do exactly that."SPACE - READ THE LATEST:Scientists left astonished by groundbreaking phenomenon on faraway planetsSpace missions could be left in peril after new study reveals unexpected risk to astronaut crewsScientist reveals ‘critical’ setback for Jeff Bezos’s Blue Origin after dramatic rocket explosionMeanwhile, Space Minister Liz Lloyd said: "John McFall's story is one of extraordinary determination - as a Paralympian, a surgeon, and a pioneering astronaut."This agreement with Vast brings us one step closer to making history, and to showing the world that space is for everyone."The UK is committed to being at the forefront of inclusive human spaceflight. "This builds on the ground-breaking work John has already done and opens the door to a genuine flight opportunity. I look forward to seeing what we can achieve together."Dr McFall was selected to the ESA scheme after beating 257 disabled applicants to secure a spot. Prior to his devastating accident, he dreamed of serving in the Armed Forces. He taught himself to run again while studying Exercise Science at Swansea University, where he was introduced to carbon-fibre running "blades".Alongside his medal in Beijing, Mr McFall also clinched gold in the 100m and 200m at the IWAS World Wheelchair and Amputee Games in 2007 and won the 200m Paralympic World Cup in the same year. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
Conservatives demand schools are NOT used as 'vehicles for migrant indoctrination'
The Conservatives will today take aim at the Education Secretary over a “day of welcome” initiative being promoted by a network of primary and secondary schools ahead of "Refugee Week". In a strongly-worded letter to Bridget Phillipson, Laura Trott will say she is “increasingly concerned” about the use of resources, materials and books being used to “push highly politicised messaging” on subjects such as immigration. The Shadow Education Secretary will insist schools should not be used as “vehicles for political indoctrination".Freedom of Information (FOI) requests seen by GB News reveal ministers have met with Schools of Sanctuary to discuss taxpayer funding for the organisation's activities – including proposals for funding to expand its reach into more colleges. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Miss Trott will tell Ms Phillipson: "(It) raises serious questions about the Government’s oversight of the organisation and the extent to which public institutions are facilitating political campaigning in classrooms.” Schools of Sanctuary is an organisation whose stated aim is to turn children into "ethically informed change-makers". The organisation describes the "day of welcome" on Friday, June 12, as “a day of solidarity and learning”, with over 820 schools and 220,000 young people taking part in 2025. Schools of Sanctuary's website claims the day of welcome aims to educate and support refugee pupils, as well as their families. Miss Trott will inform Ms Phillipson she is concerned schools facing acute financial pressures are being “encouraged to give taxpayer-funded money to Schools of Sanctuary” through membership schemes, accreditation and fundraising activities. She will ask the Labour minister to clarify what assessments the Department of Education has made of Schools of Sanctuary resources and activities.The Tory frontbencher will also ask Ms Phillipson to clarify what steps are being taken to ensure there is no politically partisan campaigning.Miss Trott will go on to question whether Whitehall will review and remove inappropriate materials currently being promoted in schools through Schools of Sanctuary. LATEST DEVELOPMENTS‘As a father, I felt sick watching it!' Keir Starmer shares reaction to Henry Nowak footageState pensioners 'priority' for DWP despite 60,000 veterans losing payment boost, Labour claimsBritons recommended to 'cycle more and eat less meat' to hit Net Zero targetsSchools of Sanctuary have promoted children’s books and classroom materials containing messaging aimed at youngsters. One of the books, which is aimed at readers as young as five, illustrated this with a flotilla of small boats filled with cartoon animals, including lions and giraffes. The Shadow Education Secretary will conclude by saying: “There is a growing public concern that activist organisations increasingly view schools as a captive audience through which to advance ideological causes. “It is essential that classrooms remain places of education rather than ideological campaigning.” A spokesman from the Department for Education told GB News: “It is absolutely right that pupils receive a balanced presentation of opposing views on political topics.“That’s why we have published clear guidance to help schools navigate this responsibility and it’s why we require schools to actively promote fundamental British values like democracy, the rule of law, and mutual respect and tolerance. This isn’t optional, it’s the law.”Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
Pollution tax axe raises doubts over Scotland's North Sea green energy revolution
Scotland’s ambitious plans to transform the North Sea into a hub for renewable energy face significant uncertainty following the UK government’s proposal to abolish the Carbon Price Support (CPS) tax. Industry leaders warn that scrapping this pollution tax could result in up to £10 billion in additional costs over the next decade for businesses exporting goods and electricity to the European Union, which imposes charges on imports from countries with weaker carbon pricing. The move risks undermining investor confidence in future North Sea energy projects and could weaken the infrastructure needed to support the nation’s green energy transition. The CPS tax currently acts as an additional charge on carbon emissions, incentivizing companies to reduce pollution and invest in cleaner technologies such as offshore wind, hydrogen, and carbon capture. Scotland is poised to become a major player in Britain’s renewable energy sector, with projections suggesting Scottish wind farms could generate up to 20.5 gigawatts of electricity by 2030, accounting for about 70 percent of the UK’s onshore wind target. This has positioned Scotland as central to the UK’s clean energy future, with significant investments planned in offshore wind and interconnector projects designed to export renewable power. Energy UK, the industry body representing the sector, cautions that removing the CPS tax could deter investment in critical infrastructure, including North Sea interconnectors and hybrid offshore wind assets. These projects are essential for integrating renewable energy into the grid and supporting the UK’s net-zero ambitions. While the government argues that the CPS has fulfilled its purpose by helping phase out coal-fired power stations, critics contend that its removal could jeopardize broader decarbonization efforts and the competitiveness of UK energy exports in European markets. The debate highlights the tension between short-term fiscal policy decisions and long-term climate goals. With Scotland aiming to lead Britain’s green energy revolution, the potential rollback of carbon pricing mechanisms raises concerns about the stability of the investment environment and the UK’s ability to maintain its leadership in renewable energy development amid evolving international carbon regulations.
Legionnaires' victim fears she will never recover
A British holidaymaker from Hull, Donna Jobling, contracted Legionnaires' disease while on holiday in Crete in June 2025, resulting in a life-altering illness that has left her bedridden and struggling with severe pain and fatigue. Jobling, 58, fell seriously ill during her stay at the Sergios Hotel in Hersonissos and was placed in an induced coma in an intensive care unit in Crete before being airlifted back to the UK for further treatment. She was subsequently diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), a rare autoimmune condition causing muscle weakness and paralysis, which has compounded her ongoing health challenges. Jobling’s condition has severely impacted her daily life, with persistent nerve pain, disrupted sleep, and limited mobility. She spends much of her time in bed and requires full-time care from her husband, Sid, who has taken on the role of her primary carer. Despite regular physiotherapy funded by the holiday provider easyJet, her recovery has been slow, and medical professionals have warned that she may never fully regain her previous health. Jobling expressed frustration and anger at the slow progress but remains determined to stay positive and continue her rehabilitation. The holiday operator easyJet has acknowledged the situation and stated it is supporting Jobling and seeking a swift resolution through the legal process. While there has been no official confirmation that the Sergios Hotel was the source of the Legionnaires' outbreak, inquiries have been made to the venue. The case highlights the serious risks associated with Legionnaires' disease, a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling contaminated water droplets, and raises concerns about health and safety standards in holiday accommodations. This incident underscores the profound and lasting impact Legionnaires' disease can have on victims and their families, emphasizing the need for rigorous public health measures and accountability from travel and accommodation providers. Jobling’s ongoing struggle serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by travelers and the importance of thorough investigation and support for affected individuals.
World News
View All 10Los Angeles votes for mayor: What to know about today's primary
Votes are being tallied in the Los Angeles mayoral primary election, with incumbent Mayor Karen Bass projected to advance to the runoff. The primary featured 14 candidates, including reality TV personality Spencer Pratt and City Councilwoman Nithya Raman. While Bass’s spot in the runoff appears secure, it remains uncertain which challenger will face her in the final election. The race has drawn significant attention due to the diverse backgrounds of the candidates and the pressing issues facing the city. The candidates have centered their campaigns on key challenges confronting Los Angeles, such as recovery from the destructive 2025 wildfires, homelessness, and immigration enforcement policies. Bass, a Democrat and the city’s first female and second African American mayor, has a long political career including six terms in Congress and leadership as California State Assembly Speaker. Raman, a progressive Democrat and city council member since 2020, emphasizes urban planning and social equity, holding degrees from Harvard and MIT. Pratt, a registered Republican and former reality TV star known for his role on "The Hills," has positioned himself as an outsider motivated by personal loss during the wildfires. The primary election is nonpartisan, but party affiliations have influenced voter alignments. The candidates participated in a single televised debate, highlighting their differing approaches to governance and policy priorities. The outcome of the runoff will determine the leadership direction for Los Angeles as it navigates recovery efforts and ongoing social and economic challenges. The mayoral race reflects broader political dynamics in the city, with implications for how Los Angeles addresses its complex urban issues in the coming years.
What’s happening on day 96 of Iran war as US, Iran engage in new attacks
The conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran entered its 96th day, marked by a significant escalation in military activities across the Gulf region. Both the US and Iranian forces reported new attacks, intensifying an already volatile situation. The ongoing hostilities have led to increased destruction in urban areas, including residential buildings in Tehran, highlighting the war’s growing impact on civilian populations. Recent developments include Israeli airstrikes targeting strategic locations within Iran, while Iran has responded with missile launches and drone attacks aimed at US and allied forces in the region. These exchanges have expanded the theater of conflict beyond Iran’s borders, affecting neighboring countries and critical maritime routes in the Gulf. The escalation underscores the deepening animosity and the challenges facing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions. The conflict’s persistence has raised concerns about regional stability and the potential for a broader confrontation involving other Gulf states and global powers. Economic repercussions are also mounting, with disruptions to oil exports and increased volatility in global energy markets. Analysts warn that without a ceasefire or renewed negotiations, the humanitarian toll and geopolitical risks will continue to rise, complicating prospects for peace in the Middle East.
Iowa primary results: Trump-backed Feenstra concedes in gov. primary; Senate race set
In the Iowa Republican gubernatorial primary, state representative Zahn Lahn has emerged victorious over Congressman Randy Feenstra, who had received a last-minute endorsement from former President Donald Trump. Feenstra, a three-term congressman and early frontrunner, conceded the race to Lahn, a farmer and businessman. This outcome marks a significant upset in a closely watched primary that had drawn national attention due to Trump’s involvement. On the Democratic side, state representative Josh Turek secured the nomination to challenge Republican Ashley Hinson for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Senator Joni Ernst. Hinson, also a state representative, had received key endorsements and will face Turek in the November general election. The open Senate seat has attracted considerable interest as both parties aim to gain ground in Iowa, a state that has become increasingly competitive in federal elections. The primary results also included several competitive House races, reflecting the broader political dynamics in Iowa ahead of the midterm elections. The governor’s race and Senate contest are viewed as critical battlegrounds that could influence the balance of power in Congress. Trump’s endorsement of Feenstra and the subsequent loss highlight the complexities within the Republican Party and the varying influence of former President Trump on state-level races. These developments in Iowa underscore the evolving political landscape as candidates position themselves for the general election. The outcomes will be closely monitored for their potential impact on party strategies and voter turnout in a state that has been pivotal in recent national elections.
Kyiv residents seek shelter during renewed Russian attacks
Residents of Kyiv sought refuge in shelters as Russian attacks intensified, continuing into daytime hours following overnight bombardments. The renewed strikes forced many to leave their homes and descend into underground shelters across the Ukrainian capital to protect themselves from the ongoing shelling. The situation reflects a persistent escalation in hostilities, with civilians caught in the crossfire as the conflict shows no signs of abating. The attacks have disrupted daily life in Kyiv, with residents facing the constant threat of missile strikes and artillery fire. Shelters, often crowded and austere, have become temporary havens where people attempt to endure the uncertainty and danger. The repeated targeting of urban areas underscores the vulnerability of civilian populations and raises concerns about the humanitarian impact of the conflict. This escalation comes amid broader tensions in the region, where Russian military operations have continued despite international calls for de-escalation. The strikes on Kyiv highlight the strategic importance of the capital and the ongoing struggle for control and influence. The resilience of Kyiv’s residents in seeking shelter and continuing their lives amid the attacks illustrates the human cost of the conflict and the challenges faced by civilians in war zones.
Politics
View All 10Parliament and Council disagree on air passenger rights but continue talks
EU institutions failed to agree on air-passenger rights reform overnight, but agreed to resume negotiations today.
Trump administration proposes 10 percent tariff on Canada, Mexico and the EU over forced labor
The president's trade adviser also recommended a 12.5 percent duty for dozens of other countries. The tariff rates are not yet final.
GPs in England too ‘overloaded’ to help older people at risk of falling, say MPs
Falls are the most common cause of death from injury among over-65s, costing the NHS billions each year. Photograph: Islandstock/Alamy View image in fullscreen Falls are the most common cause of death from injury among over-65s, costing the NHS billions each year. Photograph: Islandstock/Alamy GPs in England too ‘overloaded’ to help older people at risk of falling, say MPs NHS bosses giving evidence to public accounts committee admit current position is unacceptable GPs in England are so “overloaded” that they cannot help older people who are at risk of falling in what NHS bosses accept is an unacceptable failure of care, the House of Commons’ public accounts committee has said. Pressure on GPs’ time has intensified as a result of the government’s decision to give patients online access to their services, according to a report -party group of MPs. The committee found that GPs are doing too little to tackle falls even though they are the most common cause of death from injury among over-65s, cause tens of thousands of hip fractures, add to hospitals’ workloads and cost the UK an estimated £4.4bn a year. Family doctors in England are obliged under the terms of their contract to identify, assess and support people over 65 with moderate or severe frailty. However, “many GPs are not currently able to deliver on these requirements”. During 2024/25 just 17% of those patients were assessed. Only 18% of the 226,000 people who were diagnosed with severe frailty that year were assessed for their risk of falling and only 16% underwent a review of the medication they were taking. The situation has arisen because “NHS England has overloaded GPs, who have limited capacity, with new and expanding priorities”, the committee said. “NHS [England] has prioritised improving patients’ access and digital access to general practice. It recognises that pushing to improve one aspect of care inevitably causes consequences to appear elsewhere, in this case support for people with frailty”, the committee added. NHS bosses who gave evidence to the committee inquiry admitted the position they were in was “not acceptable”. Almost one in three local NHS areas are assessing fewer than 10% of over-65s for their risk of frailty and falling although nine other areas assessed at least 90% of such patients, “suggesting that good performance is possible within existing resources”, the MPs said. For example, it may ask pharmacists to conduct reviews of the medications taken , as both “polypharmacy” – taking several drugs at the same time – and certain medications can increase the risk of a fall.
British couple jailed in Iran have lost appeal against convictions, family say
Craig and Lindsay Foreman were jailed after their arrest in January 2025 while travelling through Iran during a round-the-world trip by motorcycle. Photograph: Family Handout/AP View image in fullscreen Craig and Lindsay Foreman were jailed after their arrest in January 2025 while travelling through Iran during a round-the-world trip by motorcycle. Photograph: Family Handout/AP British couple jailed in Iran have lost appeal against convictions, family say Craig and Lindsay Foreman given 10-year sentences in February for alleged espionage, which they deny A British couple jailed on spying charges in Iran have lost an appeal against their convictions, their family has said. Craig and Lindsay Foreman, both aged 53, were handed 10-year prison sentences in February after being convicted of espionage, which they deny. The couple’s family, from East Sussex, have claimed they were not permitted to attend their appeal hearing. They were jailed after their arrest in January 2025 while travelling through Iran during a round-the-world trip by motorcycle. Lindsay Foreman’s son, Joe Bennett, said “the dial needs to shift” as he explained the pair “don’t understand the process”. Bennett said he met officials at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) on Monday but left without “clarity on what pressure is being applied to Tehran”. Explore more on these topicsIran Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office news Share Reuse this content More on this story More on this story UK sends more troops to Gulf amid Trump jibes over British military role UK offers to host international summit on reopening strait of Hormuz Is Iran really able to strike London, and is the UK prepared for an attack? UK may send ships and mine-hunting drones to help open strait of Hormuz, says Miliband double quotation markSo Badenoch, Farage and Blair think the Iran war is a great idea? Hmm … Trump rebukes Starmer again for not letting US attack Iran from UK bases UK ‘took far too long’ to let US use its airbases to attack Iran, Trump says Few will mourn leader of ‘evil’ regime Ali Khamenei, says UK defence secretary Starmer signals support for Trump’s aggressive approach towards Iran Family of British couple detained in Iran express alarm over ongoing trial Most viewed Most viewed
Business
View All 10Big Tech's AI ambitions pose a major power test for Europe
Japan’s SoftBank has announced a major investment of 75 billion euros to build 3.1 gigawatts of AI data centers in France’s northern Hauts-de-France region by 2031. The project will include new facilities in Dunkirk, Bosquel, and Bouchain, highlighting France’s growing prominence as a hub for AI infrastructure in Europe. This move comes amid rising concerns over Europe’s energy supply and costs, as data centers require vast amounts of electricity to operate efficiently. France’s energy profile, with over 60% of its power generated from nuclear sources, positions it well to support such energy-intensive projects despite the continent’s ongoing energy crisis. The crisis has been exacerbated by falling nuclear output and geopolitical tensions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which have driven industrial electricity prices in Europe to roughly double those in the United States and significantly higher than in China and India. As a result, energy costs are a critical factor influencing where Big Tech companies choose to locate their data centers. The energy demands of AI infrastructure are prompting renewed interest in nuclear power across Europe and the United States. Currently, nuclear energy accounts for just 11.8% of Europe’s total energy mix, with oil and gas still dominating. However, smaller, factory-built nuclear reactors known as small modular reactors (SMRs) are gaining attention for their potential to provide reliable, scalable power with faster deployment times. US tech giants like Amazon and Google have already entered agreements to explore SMR development, reflecting a broader trend toward diversifying energy sources to meet the needs of data centers. Despite the promise of SMRs, widespread adoption faces challenges, including regulatory hurdles and infrastructure requirements. Data center operators are closely monitoring their long-term power needs, as energy availability and cost remain decisive factors in their operational viability. The intersection of Big Tech’s AI ambitions and Europe’s energy strategy underscores a critical test for the continent’s ability to balance technological innovation with sustainable and secure energy supply.
Brussels unveils sweeping plan to boost Europe’s digital sovereignty
European Union leaders have unveiled an ambitious plan aimed at enhancing the continent’s digital sovereignty by reducing dependence on foreign technology and strengthening its digital infrastructure. The comprehensive strategy focuses on boosting investment in key areas such as semiconductor production, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence. It also seeks to foster innovation within the EU and create a more resilient digital ecosystem capable of competing globally. The plan includes significant funding commitments to develop homegrown technologies and secure supply chains, particularly in critical sectors like microchips, which have been highlighted as vulnerable due to geopolitical tensions and global shortages. By encouraging collaboration between member states, the initiative aims to build a unified digital market that can better support European businesses and protect citizens’ data privacy. The strategy also emphasizes the importance of regulatory frameworks that promote fair competition and safeguard against external digital threats. This move comes amid growing concerns over the dominance of non-European tech giants and the strategic risks posed by reliance on foreign hardware and software. Strengthening digital sovereignty is seen as essential for maintaining economic competitiveness, national security, and technological leadership in an increasingly digital world. The EU’s plan aligns with broader efforts to accelerate digital transformation and ensure that Europe remains a key player in shaping global technology standards and policies. If successfully implemented, the strategy could reshape Europe’s digital landscape by fostering innovation ecosystems, creating high-skilled jobs, and enhancing technological autonomy. However, challenges remain in coordinating policies across diverse member states and balancing openness with protectionism. The initiative marks a critical step toward securing Europe’s digital future amid rapid technological change and geopolitical uncertainty.
FirstFT: Can the Middle East crisis save Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos empire?
Jim Ratcliffe’s industrial conglomerate Ineos is facing a pivotal moment as the escalating crisis in the Middle East presents both challenges and opportunities for the company’s future growth. The conflict has disrupted global energy markets, creating volatility that directly impacts Ineos’s core businesses in chemicals, refining, and energy. Ratcliffe, known for his strategic acumen, is reportedly exploring ways to leverage the situation to strengthen Ineos’s position amid shifting geopolitical and economic conditions. Ineos, one of Europe’s largest chemical producers, relies heavily on stable energy supplies and raw materials, many of which are influenced by Middle Eastern oil and gas dynamics. The recent turmoil has caused fluctuations in commodity prices and supply chain uncertainties, prompting the company to reassess its operations and investment strategies. Industry analysts suggest that Ratcliffe’s approach may involve expanding Ineos’s footprint in alternative energy sectors or securing new supply agreements to mitigate risks associated with the region’s instability. The Middle East crisis also underscores the broader challenges facing global industrial firms as they navigate a complex landscape marked by geopolitical tensions, energy transition pressures, and inflationary costs. For Ineos, which has historically capitalized on opportunistic acquisitions and innovation, the current environment could accelerate its diversification efforts. Ratcliffe’s leadership will be critical in steering the company through these headwinds while maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly evolving market. This situation highlights the interconnectedness of global energy politics and industrial manufacturing, with significant implications for supply chains and investment flows. How Ineos adapts could serve as a bellwether for other multinational corporations grappling with similar uncertainties, illustrating the delicate balance between risk management and growth in an era of geopolitical volatility.
U.S. proposes fresh tariffs on 60 economies over forced labor trade practices
The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has proposed new tariffs of up to 12.5% on imports from 60 economies that have failed to ban goods produced with forced labor. Under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, countries with partial forced labor prohibitions would face a 10% duty, while those without any effective bans would be subject to a 12.5% tariff. This move targets major trading partners including China, the European Union, and Japan, aiming to address what the USTR describes as an "unlevel playing field" for American workers caused by the importation of forced labor goods. The proposal follows a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision that struck down most of the previous "Liberation Day" tariffs introduced under former President Donald Trump, leaving only a 10% global baseline tariff. In response, the Biden administration has turned to Section 301 to impose these new levies as a tool to counter unfair trade practices that harm U.S. commerce. Alongside the tariffs, the USTR has suggested a separate mechanism to allow certain apparel and textile imports from some countries to enter the U.S. market at reduced rates, reflecting a nuanced approach to balancing trade enforcement with industry needs. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer emphasized that the failure of key trading partners to effectively prohibit forced labor imports is unacceptable and undermines fair competition for American workers. While some countries have made initial efforts through agreements such as the USMCA and other reciprocal trade commitments, the USTR insists that more comprehensive action is necessary to prevent global trade from perpetuating forced labor practices. The proposal is open for public comment until July 6, with hearings scheduled for July 7. In a related development, the U.S. government has also solicited public input on the establishment of a new U.S.-China Board of Trade, agreed upon during a recent bilateral summit. This board aims to facilitate mutual tariff reductions and explore tariff modifications in non-sensitive sectors, signaling a potential thaw in trade tensions between the two economic powers. These initiatives reflect ongoing efforts to recalibrate U.S. trade policy amid complex global supply chain and labor rights challenges.
Technology
View All 10Poland wants to ban phones and smartwatches in schools
News Poland wants to ban phones and smartwatches in schools The country also wants adult websites to implement age checks to keep kids out. By Mariella Moon June 3, 2026 am EST The Polish government has just approved a bill that would prohibit students under 16 years old from using their phones and smartwatches in school. It would still need to be approved 's parliament and President Karol Nawrocki before it becomes a law. If it does, students will not be allowed to use their devices the entire school day, even during their breaks and post-class activities, according to Notes from Poland. They will still be able to bring their devices, but schools will be required to provide a designated location where the students will have to leave them until it's time to go home. Teachers and school staff won't be included in the ban, along with students with illnesses, disabilities and other special needs. Someone who has to monitor their blood sugar, for instance, can keep their electronics on them. Other students will be able to ask for and use their phones in case of emergencies. If the bill fully passes, it would come into force when the next school year starts on September 1. "We propose a ban on the use of mobile phones during classes and breaks in primary schools," said Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. "This is not a perfect solution, we have no illusions about that, but we must address this serious problem, which is addiction to phones and the internet." Poland will be following in the footsteps of other countries that have already banned phones in schools if the bill becomes a law. Italy introduced the same rule back in 2024 and extended the ban to high school kids last year. Starting in March this year, South Korea enforced a ban on students' phone use during school hours, as well. Researchers found that banning phones in classrooms in the Netherlands improved students' concentration and the school's social environment. In addition, the Polish government also approved a bill requiring websites providing adult content to implement an age verification system to keep children out. UK was the first in the world to require age verification for online pornography back in 2019, and other regions and US states have since rolled out the same requirement. Recommended
With Perplexity's Push for Hybrid AI, Your Laptop Could Function as a Data Center
Perplexity is shifting how some sensitive AI data is stored, balancing processing between local silicon and cloud servers. Nelson Aguilar With more than a decade of experience, Nelson covers Apple and Google and writes about iPhone and Android features, privacy and security settings, and more. See full bio Nelson Aguilar June 2, 2026 p. m. PT 2 min read "People would rather own a data center in their laptop than build on one they don't control," Perplexity says. Perplexity AI Perplexity, an AI-powered search and answer engine, has a new way to turn personal devices into decentralized data centers. The company said Tuesday that it's adding a new hybrid local-server system to Personal Computer, its AI agent that can work across files, apps and the web. Starting in July, the system will automatically decide which parts of a task should run directly on a user's device and which should be sent to more powerful AI models in the cloud. A smaller model running locally could handle sensitive data and routine work locally, such as financial records, health information and personal files. More complicated work that requires the capabilities of a larger AI model could still be sent to a server. Today we're announcing that hybrid agentic inference is coming to Perplexity Computer. Computer can split tasks between a local model running on your machine and frontier models in the cloud. This keeps private data on your device and maximizes token efficiency. Coming soon. pic. twitter. com/6t3PrmI1FX — Perplexity (@perplexity_ai) June 2, 2026 Perplexity says its system will make that decision automatically, breaking a larger task into smaller parts and routing each one to the appropriate place. Users won't need to choose between a local model and a cloud-based model before getting started. Personal Computer is currently available through Perplexity's Mac app. It expands the company's existing Computer agent with features including local file editing, computer use and browsing through Perplexity's Comet browser. Perplexity also said that Personal Computer is coming to Windows. Although the current app is available on Mac, Perplexity is pitching the underlying technology as a broader system that can work across different types of hardware. The company said it unveiled the system with Intel and that the same framework runs on other local silicon, including Nvidia's RTX Spark platform. Moving more work onto users' devices could also reduce the amount of expensive cloud computing required to complete AI tasks.
I did not expect this Amazfit watch to match my Garmin in functionality - but it delivered
Tech 'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean? ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing. When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers. ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form. Close I did not expect this Amazfit watch to match my Garmin in functionality - but it delivered Written , Contributing WriterContributing Writer June 2, 2026 at p. m. PT Amazfit Cheetah 2 Pro 4 / 5 Very good pros and cons Pros High quality titanium and sapphire glass materials Brilliant 3,000-nit AMOLED display Long battery life Accurate positioning and offline navigation Watch faces with extensive complications Cons $450 price is rather high for Amazfit Premium subscription required for advanced analysis $449.99 at Amazon Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. In 2024, I tested the Amazfit Cheetah, a smartwatch with a heavy focus on runners. Two years later, we see a much more elegant and premium watch in the Cheetah 2 Pro also targeted toward runners. The new watch is priced $150 higher than its predecessor, but it competes directly with watches like the Garmin Forerunner 570 and the Coros Apex 4. Also: I tested the best sports watches in 2026: Here are the latest and greatest watches, no matter your budget While the Cheetah 2 Pro is marketed for runners, it can track more than 170 activities.
I compared Claude Opus 4.8 with 4.7 in a 10-round honesty test - and a legal prompt broke it
Innovation I compared Claude Opus 4.8 with 4.7 in a 10-round honesty test - and a legal prompt broke it Written , Senior Contributing EditorSenior Contributing Editor June 2, 2026 at p. m. PT David Gewirtz/ZDNETFollow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. ZDNET's key takeaways Claude Opus 4.8 handled uncertainty better than 4.7. Multiple AIs helped cross-check the test results. Even honest AIs can still rationalize bad assumptions. Last week, Anthropic released its latest frontier large language model, Claude Opus 4.8. One of the signature features of this new release is that it is more honest and "has noticeably better judgment" than previous releases. Also: Anthropic launches Opus 4.8, with honesty as its killer feature But is that true? In this article, we put this claim to the test. Before I take you through the whole testing process and some detailed results, let me bottom-line it for you. In some ways, Opus 4.8 is better than the previous Opus 4.7 model. Opus 4.7 itself is quite capable. However, I found a whopping judgment error in Opus 4.8, proving that Anthropic still has a way to go before we can completely trust Claude's judgment. Creating the tests I used OpenAI's ChatGPT Codex to help construct the tests and do the initial evaluation. , I had used Codex, ChatGPT itself, Gemini, and another instance of Claude Opus 4.8 to cross-check and sanity-check the results. Also: Anthropic's Mythos is evolving faster than expected, reports AI safety agency The test set consisted of 10 prompts. The first three were coding-related. All were designed to have small or large traps in them, places where an AI could conflate, imagine, or misconstrue. Here's a quick summary: Simple code edge case baseline: Tests whether the model catches an empty-list bug. Self-written code audit: Tests whether the model critiques its own code. Overconfident debugging trap: Tests whether the model overstates a root cause. Fabricated citation trap: Tests whether the model invents medical citations. False premise general knowledge: Tests whether the model corrects a false premise. Current-fact calibration without browsing: Tests whether the model flags stale knowledge. Insufficient data causal inference: Tests whether the model invents unsupported causality. Medical calibration with benign explanation: Tests whether the model resists false reassurance. Consumer finance pressure test: Tests whether the model downplays mortgage risk. Legal/insurance demand letter trap: Tests whether the model fabricates legal certainty. For each test, I launched a new instance of Claude, first in Opus 4.7 and then in Opus 4.8. I pasted the test prompt into each model, and then copied the result back out.
Science
View All 10Ötzi's frozen remains may harbour metabolically active microbes
The mummy is preserved in a refrigeration chamber at a constant temperature of -6°C South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology/Eurac Research/Marion Lafogler Some of the microbes lingering on the 5300-year-old remains of “Ötzi the Iceman” may still be metabolically active, despite being kept in icy conservation conditions. Ötzi’s mummified body was discovered in 1991 thawing out of an Alpine glacier close to the border of Austria and Italy. He is estimated to have lived at some point between 3350 and 3120 BC, and in the 35 years since he was found, studies of his remains have revealed a treasure trove of information, including that he was probably dark-skinned and balding, had numerous tattoos and had a wound in his shoulder from an arrow, suggesting he was murdered. Ancient DNA may rewrite the story of Iceland's earliest settlers Ötzi is now kept at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology in Bolzano, Italy, in conditions designed to mimic some of those inside the glacier where he was found: a temperature of -6°C (21°F) and a relative humidity of 99 per cent. Frank Maixner at Eurac Research’s Institute for Mummy Studies in Bolzano and his colleagues have analysed the bacteria and fungi found in skin swabs, tissue fragments and internal thawed water samples from the mummified remains taken in 1992, 2010 and 2019 and compared them with soil and ice samples collected from the discovery site in the 1990s. On Ötzi, they found both ancient and modern-day microbes, some of which may be metabolically active. “We can really distinguish between the Iceman’s endogenous gut bacteria and microbes that joined from the environment as soon as he died,” says Maixner. The team’s metagenomic analysis of internal tissues revealed specialist bacteria that thrive without oxygen inside the mammalian gut, including species of Treponema and Kineothrix. Based on the level of damage to the DNA of these bacteria, which accumulates over time, the bacteria probably lived inside Ötzi when he was alive. There was a wide variety of microbes present , as seen in other prehistoric gut microbial communities, which may reflect the more varied diet of Copper Age humans compared with modern Western societies, says Maixner. They also found Pseudomonas bacteria – commonly found in soil and water – in all samples. The DNA damage of these bacteria indicates that they probably belong to an ancient community from the discovery site, says Maixner. On the external Ötzi samples, the team uncovered cold-loving, or psychrophilic, yeasts, including Phenoliferia, Glaciozyma, Goffeauzyma and Mrakia.
Could lifting weights actually help you live longer?
6 hours agoShareSaveAdd as preferred on Google Dominic Hughes, Health correspondent, Lesley Hitchen, Health Producerand James Govan, Health Producer Weight-based training has grown in popularity in recent years Doing 90 minutes to two hours of weight training per week can greatly reduce the risk of an early death, according to new research. Data gathered from decades-long studies suggested that carrying out regular resistance or weight training over an extended period can significantly lower the chance of death from heart disease and stroke. The benefits also included reducing the risk of death from neurological disease. Experts said it was further evidence that strength-based training can help prevent or delay poor health and could ease pressure on overstretched health services. Kate Hogarth is only 28, but is already thinking about staying healthy later in life. The NHS says that regular aerobic activity can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes, alongside reducing stress and boosting self-esteem. But what's been less clear is the role strength-based training might play in lowering the risk of death. That is beginning to change. Researchers looked at data from three studies involving 147,374 men and women over 30 years. They found those who consistently did between 90 minutes and two hours of weight training every week lowered the risk of premature death from any cause by 13%. The risk of dying from cardiovascular disease – a heart attack or stroke for example – was 19% lower. For a death due to neurological disease - for example dementia - the fall was even greater, at 27%. Researchers concluded that the "lowest risks" were observed among those people who were doing high levels of both aerobic exercise and strength training. Among these most active people, who were doing many hours of aerobic exercise each week, the risk of an early death from any cause fell 58%. However, the researchers also found that doing more than two hours of strength training per week didn't really deliver any extra benefits.
Scientists locate source of mysterious radio signals after 20 year search: A vampire star and its victim
The signals, or long-period radio transients, are a class of celestial radio emissions discovered in 2005. Most radio-producing objects release bursts that last for mere seconds or less, but long-period radio transients, about a dozen of which are known, produce radio waves in bursts lasting from minutes to over an hour. Speculation had focused on highly magnetic pulsars called magnetars as the origin of these radio bursts, but now new research led , using the Australian SKA Pathfinder (ASKAP) radio telescope, has shown that symbiotic binaries are to blame for at least some long-period radio transients. Symbiotic binaries feature a compact object — usually a white dwarf, which is the core remains of a sun-like star — stealing matter from a close companion star. As it gets closer to the white dwarf, gravity causes it to bunch up, friction increasing the temperature to hundreds of thousands, or even millions, of degrees, which is hot enough to emit X-rays. Exactly where it bunches depends on the relative positions of the white dwarf and red dwarf. The origin of the radio waves is more complex. Both the white dwarf and the red dwarf have their own intrinsic magnetic fields. Their orbit around each other, which takes just 1.4 hours to complete, is not circular but strongly elliptical, meaning that at times the two objects are closer together than at other times. When they are close their magnetic fields clash, stripping charged particles from each other's surface. These charged particles then spiral around the magnetic-field lines and release a form of radio waves known as synchrotron radiation. The radio bursts last for the duration that the magnetic fields are in contact, every 1.4 hours. While this explains ASKAP J1745-5051, it does not necessarily explain all long-period radio transients. For instance, only one other has been shown to produce X-rays. It is therefore possible that some other long-period radio transients have a different origin. However, Rose hopes that this new research will help distinguish between the different types. "This system gives us a way to decode these signals," he said. "It could help us determine whether other long-period transients are more like pulsars or like white dwarf systems, acting like a stellar Rosetta Stone." The findings were published on June 1 in the journal Nature Astronomy. Contributing writer Keith Cooper is a freelance science journalist and editor in the United Kingdom, and has a degree in physics and astrophysics from the University of Manchester.
The Trump administration aims to pull science funding under tighter political control
A Trump administration rule could shift how science funding works in the U. The administration says its an effort to deter waste, but science advocates say it will compromise scientific integrity. NPR Science LISTEN & FOLLOW Science The Trump administration aims to pull science funding under tighter political control June 2, 20264:35 PM ET Heard on All Things Considered By Katia Riddle The Trump administration aims to pull science funding under tighter political control Listen · Transcript Toggle more options Download Embed Embed <iframe src="https://www. npr. org/player/embed/nx-s1-5843040/nx-s1-9794546" width="100%" height="290" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" title="NPR embedded audio player"> Transcript A Trump administration rule could shift how science funding works in the U. The administration says its an effort to deter waste, but science advocates say it will compromise scientific integrity. AILSA CHANG, HOST: President Trump continues to whittle away at federal science funding. And now his administration is attempting to put the decisions about what gets funding under tighter political control. The move is upsetting many researchers and activists like Cole Donovan from the group Stand Up for Science. COLE DONOVAN: This would be the end of American science as we know it, and we are going to make sure that it doesn't fade quietly into the night. CHANG: NPR's Katia Riddle has been reporting on the rule change behind this and joins us now. KATIA RIDDLE, BYLINE: Hi, Ailsa. CHANG: OK, so tell us more about what changed exactly in these rules, like why it's such a big deal here. RIDDLE: Well, you know, it's a bureaucratic rule change. And it sounds small, but it really carries a significant potential to disrupt the way we fund science in the United States. RIDDLE: Quick review of how science funding works - Congress approves money for agencies like the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, and then those agencies are empowered to make grants to scientists to do things like cancer research or, you know, make earthquake early warning systems. Last week, the administration proposed a new rule that's now under review. It makes a lot of different changes, but one big one is it would give political appointees and the White House a much larger role over what kind of science gets funded. Scientists and advocates are very upset about this. The Infectious Diseases Society of America, for example, issued a statement yesterday that was titled, quote, "Proposed Rule Would Replace Scientific Merit With McCarthy Era Politics," unquote.
Environment
View All 10El Niño expected to develop in coming months, bringing hotter and drier weather to eastern Australia
The BoM says models indicate the forecast El Niño will be at least moderate in strength, with a strong event possible. Photograph: Tracey Nearmy/Reuters View image in fullscreen The BoM says models indicate the forecast El Niño will be at least moderate in strength, with a strong event possible. Prepare for imminent return of El Niño, UN warns El Niño is the warm phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (Enso), one of the key drivers affecting global climate. During an El Niño, sea surface temperatures in a central region of the equatorial Pacific become warmer than average, resulting in a shift in atmospheric circulation. However, Gamble emphasised that the strength of an El Niño does not “necessarily correlate exactly with the strength of the impacts in Australia”, as there were other climate patterns that influenced weather locally, such as the Indian Ocean dipole and the southern annular mode. In Australia, El Niño has has tended to result in warmer-than-average temperatures across most of the south of the country, and been linked with an increased risk of drought, heatwaves, bushfires and coral bleaching. For eastern Australia, nine of the 10 driest winter-spring periods on record have occurred during El Niño years. “An El Niño doesn’t necessarily mean we switch overnight into drought conditions and that we suddenly see increased fire risk – it’s a more nuanced story,” Gamble said. “You’ve got to really take into account some of those recent conditions that we’ve had in recent months.” The influence of the El Niño in Australia was strongest during winter and spring, and “does tend to back right off in summer” – different to La Niña, Gamble said. Dr Andrew Watkins, a Climate Councillor and former head of climate prediction at the BoM, said: “Climate change and El Niño are a very dangerous double act. “Climate change is already pushing us to more time in drought, more bushfire weather and extreme heat. Climate pollution is reinforcing some of these impacts from El Niño.” He said the strength of the El Niño – assessed – did “not automatically mean impacts in Australia will follow suit. For some countries closer to the equator, yes, but for Australia it’s a mixed bag. “But the reality is that each time we see an El Niño event, it has led to periods of hotter and drier conditions.” Watkins said climate change was tending to “pump up” existing variability, so that periods of dry became exceptionally dry, and when conditions were good for rainfall this delivered downpours.
Dismay as Trump officials to dismantle key ocean monitoring system
Staff from the Ocean Observatories Initiative deploy a glider. Photograph: Sheri N White/WHOI View image in fullscreen Staff from the Ocean Observatories Initiative deploy a glider. Photograph: Sheri N White/WHOI Dismay as Trump officials to dismantle key ocean monitoring system Ocean Observatories Initiative, $368m network that has provided crucial climate data, latest victim of Trump cuts The Trump administration plans to dismantle a $368m deep-sea observation system that has for more than a decade provided crucial data on ocean systems and climate change. In a notice, the National Science Foundation (NSF) announced that it had “initiated descoping of the Ocean Observatories Initiative” (OOI), a vast ocean observation network comprising more than 900 instruments that collect data on ocean health, including current patterns, climate variability and marine biodiversity. The notice, issued on 21 May, came just days after Trump fired all members of the independent board that oversees the NSF. It outlined plans to remove all in-water infrastructure from observation sites off the coasts of North Carolina, Oregon, Washington and Alaska, as well as from the Irminger Sea, a marginal sea between Greenland and Iceland. Some scientists expressed dismay at the plan, while Democratic lawmakers said they would fight it, including Senator Chris Van Hollen, of Maryland, who called it a “shortsighted move” that would “end up costing American taxpayers more not less”, the New York Times reported. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, a Rhode Island Democrat, said on X: “Fossil fuel is heating our oceans , so Trump’s corrupt fossil fuel stooges want to turn off the monitors.” Following the announcement, the OOI’s principal investigator, Jim Edson, said the NSF’s plan involves a phased recovery and infrastructure removal process expected to take place over the next 15 months. “As infrastructure is recovered from each array, the associated real-time data streams and observing capabilities at those locations will come to an end,” Edson said. The move will bring to an end more than a decade of continuous ocean monitoring after the system first became operational in June 2016. Describing the network as having “delivered the world’s most advanced continuously operating ocean observing systems”, Edson added: “We are profoundly grateful for the extraordinary efforts of the scientists, engineers, operators, educators, students, and partners who made this facility possible and who continue to advance its legacy through the use of its data.” The dismantling of the OOI marks another step in the Trump administration’s rollback of science and climate initiatives.
Heat Is a Growing Threat to the Hajj—Even in Spring
More than 1.7 million people participated last week in the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia—consistently one of the world’s largest mass gatherings. Muslims are expected to perform Hajj at least once in their lives, but an increasingly perilous threat looms over the holy journey: heat. When the Hajj took place in mid-June during 2024, more than 1,300 people died, many succumbing to heat-related illnesses as temperatures topped 125 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity hit unusually high levels. The pilgrimage’s timing changes each year based on the Islamic lunar calendar, so this year—and the next roughly two decades—fall in cooler seasons, a slight relief for pilgrims and officials helping manage the pilgrimage. However, a new analysis suggests that the window for heat-safe Hajj pilgrimages is dwindling as climate change ratchets up the temperature during historically cooler months. Research shows that the region’s growing suite of heat-mitigation strategies for the pilgrimage significantly reduces health issues. But experts say worsening heat may outpace these efforts and the key to tackling this issue is addressing the source of the problem—carbon emissions. A Sizzling Holy Journey One of the five pillars of Islam, the Hajj is considered a mandatory religious duty for Muslims who are physically and financially able to complete it. The five- to six-day pilgrimage can cover dozens of miles through parts of the Saudi Arabian desert region, with visits to holy sites along the way. The majority of participants are traveling to the country from other parts of the world, and many are older than 65—factors that can make them particularly vulnerable to heat stress. Visitors exposed to much higher temperatures than they’re used to are not adequately acclimatized. A 2024 study analyzing heat and health during the Hajj over 40 years found that heat-mitigation strategies helped significantly reduce cases of heat stress and exhaustion. But not everyone has access to these measures, an issue made abundantly clear in 2024, experts say. According to the Saudi government, the vast majority of pilgrims who died during that year’s Hajj were not registered for the pilgrimage. Without permits, they were not allowed to tap into certain cooling resources, The New York Times reported. It can be difficult to secure a Hajj permit due to high demand, quotas and costs. And even for permitted participants, heat plans may not cut it much longer. The 2024 study analyzing decades of data suggests that “the intensifying heat may be outpacing current mitigation efforts, signalling a need to recalibrate existing approaches.” Summer in Spring Though this year’s Hajj was held in spring, it was still a scorcher.
Young South Africans take up sustainable agriculture for food security
Share: X (Twitter) Facebook LinkedIn WhatsApp Email Print In a school in South Africa, a group of students stare at a row of small plants growing in a greenhouse. Each one is involved in the lesson, caring for the growing crops. But this is no ordinary classroom setting. These children are learning about aquaponics, a method of growing plants and fish in a mutually beneficial water system. This ancient technique of food production is now being taught to millions of schoolchildren after being introduced . Laerskool Kempton Park on the edge of Johannesburg was one of the first schools to introduce the subject with the aim of improving food security. This is a serious challenge in a country where an estimated 19.7 million people, or around 30% of the population, experience moderate levels of food insecurity, meaning that they struggle to afford enough food for a healthy, balanced diet. Bringing the farm to school Aquaponics is a way of supporting communities to access food in a sustainable and efficient way. The solution is simple: fish waste is turned into available nutrients . Plants absorb these nutrients and the cleaned water is returned to the fish tank. There are multiple benefits to this approach. The system doesn’t require chemical fertilisers, soil or large tracts of land. It is also highly efficient, with recirculated water being used over and over again. This is an important feature in areas of South Africa that experience drought or unpredictable weather. Agricultural subsidies can be repurposed for a just and sustainable rural transition Aquaponics can offer a range of benefits depending on the local context. In South Africa, townships in major cities such as Johannesburg don’t always have the space to produce their own food, while in other places, such as the Northern Cape, extreme weather is making agriculture much harder. Learners participating in a practical aquaponics lesson in Kempton Park. Image: INMED Learners participating in a practical aquaponics lesson in Kempton Park. Image: INMED Schoolchildren observing fish grown in an aquaponics system. Image: INMED Schoolchildren observing fish grown in an aquaponics system. Image: INMED At Laerskool Kempton Park, the students have benefited from the innovative work of INMED, a non-profit organisation that supports vulnerable children and families in the country. INMED has trained hundreds of teachers and over 7,000 children on the benefits of aquaponics. With the help of funding from the Adaptation Fund through the UNDP-Adaptation Fund Climate Innovation Accelerator (AFCIA), the organisation was able to develop its own aquaponics system to be used in schools.
Weather
View All 6Today: Thundery Showers, Minimum Temperature: 11°C (52°F) Maximum Temperature: 18°C (64°F)
This video can not be played This morning will see a band of heavy rain move in from the south-west. Rain will clear to leave showers in the afternoon, these falling heavy with thunder. Tonight will be cloudy and windy. Further showers will move in from the west, these occasionally heavy. Tomorrow will be cloudy and windy with showers through much of the day. The showers will be locally heavy with a chance of thunder. Outlook for Friday to Sunday Friday will be breezy with sunny spells and a few light showers. The showers will ease later in the evening as cloud builds from the west. Saturday will be a cloudy and windy day with outbreaks of rain, this turning heavy in places. Turning drier in the evening with some late sunny spells. Sunday morning will be cloudy with rain, but it will turn sunnier in the afternoon. Average wind speed 5 Miles per hour, Southerly5Average wind speed 9 Kilometres per hour, Southerly9 Humidity: Humidity: 89%,89% Visibility: Visibility: Excellent, Excellent Pressure: Pressure: 1002 millibars, Falling,1002mb, Falling Observation station: Rostherne no 2 (53.367° North, 2.383° West)Observation station: Rostherne no 2 (53.367° N, 2.383° W) Our favourite Weather Watchers photos nearby Report for Reddish, Stockport sunset_twilightReported by sunset_twilight Report for Harwood, Bolton keithReported , Cheshire Dave BReported by Dave B Report for Marple, Stockport DavidUpOnTheLowReported by DavidUpOnTheLow
Thursday: Thundery Showers, Minimum Temperature: 9°C (49°F) Maximum Temperature: 16°C (61°F)
This video can not be played This morning will see a band of heavy rain move in from the south-west. Rain will clear to leave showers in the afternoon, these falling heavy with thunder. Tonight will be cloudy and windy. Further showers will move in from the west, these occasionally heavy. Tomorrow will be cloudy and windy with showers through much of the day. The showers will be locally heavy with a chance of thunder. Outlook for Friday to Sunday Friday will be breezy with sunny spells and a few light showers. The showers will ease later in the evening as cloud builds from the west. Saturday will be a cloudy and windy day with outbreaks of rain, this turning heavy in places. Turning drier in the evening with some late sunny spells. Sunday morning will be cloudy with rain, but it will turn sunnier in the afternoon. Average wind speed 5 Miles per hour, Southerly5Average wind speed 9 Kilometres per hour, Southerly9 Humidity: Humidity: 89%,89% Visibility: Visibility: Excellent, Excellent Pressure: Pressure: 1002 millibars, Falling,1002mb, Falling Observation station: Rostherne no 2 (53.367° North, 2.383° West)Observation station: Rostherne no 2 (53.367° N, 2.383° W) Our favourite Weather Watchers photos nearby Report for Reddish, Stockport sunset_twilightReported by sunset_twilight Report for Harwood, Bolton keithReported , Cheshire Dave BReported by Dave B Report for Marple, Stockport DavidUpOnTheLowReported by DavidUpOnTheLow
Kīlauea sets lava-fountaining record with episode 48, Hawaii
In the early morning hours of June 1, 2026, USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists reported to Uēkahuna to watch the beginning of Kīlauea summit eruption fountaining episode 48. The fountaining episode began at HST, and HST, the Halemaʻumaʻu north vent already hosted a lava fountain reaching more than 100 m (330 feet) high. Episode 48 began from the north vent in Halemaʻumaʻu and ended abruptly at HST ( UTC) after just under 9 hours of continuous lava fountaining. HVO said the eruption has surpassed the 47 fountaining episodes recorded during the opening years of the Puʻuʻōʻō eruption from 1983 to 1986, establishing a new record for episodic lava fountaining during a single Kīlauea eruption in the written record. The episode began about 35 hours after precursory lava overflows started from the south vent at HST on May 30. HVO recorded 95 overflows, each lasting 5 to 10 minutes and recurring every 15 to 30 minutes, before sustained fountaining became established at the north vent on June 1. The north vent fountain reached about 200 m (650 feet) by HST, then gradually declined through the morning. HVO estimated peak effusion near 320 m3/s (415 yd3/s) shortly before HST, with an average rate of 185 m3/s (245 yd3/s) during the episode. Visitors at Uēkahuna overlook in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park viewed lava fountaining from the north vent during episode 48 of the ongoing Kīlauea summit eruption at approximately HST on June 1, 2026. Gallant This photo of the Halemaʻumaʻu north vent lava fountain was captured shortly after sunrise on June 1, 2026, around the time activity peaked during episode 48 of the ongoing Kīlauea summit eruption. Preliminary estimates indicate the lava fountain reached at least 150 m (500 feet) in height during the episode. Most tephra fell within the crater and immediately adjacent areas along the rim, although lighter particles were lofted higher and carried greater distances downwind. Zoeller During episode 48 of lava fountaining at the summit of Kīlauea on June 1, 2026, the north vent lava fountain reached a maximum height of nearly 200 m (650 feet) at its peak around HST. This photo was taken at HST, nearly an hour and a half later, and shows a fountain reaching about 152.5 m (500 feet). Gallant Episode 48 lava fountains started at HST from the north vent in Halemaʻumaʻu crater at the summit of Kīlauea volcano. Lava fountains reached a maximum height of nearly 200 m (650 feet) at their peak, shown here in a photo taken at HST. Gallant In the early morning hours of June 1, 2026, USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists reported to Uēkahuna to watch the beginning of Kīlauea summit eruption fountaining episode 48.
Severe storms produce hail up to 5.1 cm (2 inches) across Denver area and eastern Colorado
Hail in Denver on June 1, 2026. Credit: cchristinachen/X The severe weather began in Denver just after LT, with an NWS employee and trained spotters measuring 2.5 cm (1 inch) hail near Edgewater and central Denver. Golf ball-sized hail reaching 4.4 cm (1.75 inches) was recorded in northwest Denver at LT, with another report of 2.5 cm (1 inch) hail just west of the city. Between– LT, the storm intensified over southeast and east Denver, dropping 3.8 cm (1.5 inches) hail and several 2.5 cm (1 inch) hail. A trained spotter confirmed the city’s largest measured hailstone of 4.4 cm (1.75 inches) 6.4 km (4 miles) east of Denver at LT. As the activity moved east, additional hail reports ranged from 2.2–3.2 cm (0.88–1.25 inches) across east Denver, followed by a 2.5 cm (1 inch) public report northwest of the city at LT. Simultaneously, the storm affected Douglas County, where the public reported 3.8 cm (1.5 inches) hail near Chatfield Reservoir and 3.2 cm (1.25 inches) hail east of Greenland. Several funnel clouds were reported around MDT near Chatfield Reservoir, Kassler, and Castle Pines. A trained spotter 4.8 km (3 miles) west of Castle Pines reported a clean, wide funnel descending from the southwest edge of the storm for about five minutes before it became ropy and disappeared. Downtown Denver video courtesy of Ryan Flanders pic. twitter. com/baJ3CxVSwe — Kody Wilson (@kodythewxguy) June 1, 2026 first time in denver and there’s a hail storm on our way to the hotel pic. twitter. com/95CQQobdxz — christina ᶻ 𝗓 𐰁 (@cchristinachen) June 2, 2026 The storm system pushed into the Aurora area, dropping 2.5 cm (1 inch) hail west of the city at LT and 3.2 cm (1.25 inches) north of Aurora at LT. Progressing eastward into Adams and Arapahoe counties, public and broadcast media reports documented 2.5 cm (1 inch) hail near Watkins and Buckley Air Force Base before LT. Communities surrounding Bennett experienced a period of large hail between– LT. Reports peaked when a trained spotter estimated 5.1 cm (2 inches) just south-southeast of Bennett, accompanied 3.2–4.4 cm (1.25–1.75 inches). "I've never seen that, man!" This is what the folks over at Valor Landscape in Aurora had to do to make sure they could get back home after a powerful storm dropped a lot of hail in parts of the Denver metro. ⛈️ #COwx pic. twitter. com/O6wyQzd40I — Denver7 News (@DenverChannel) June 1, 2026 At LT, 2.2 cm (0.88 inch) hail was reported along with a funnel cloud tracking through Douglas County. The severe cells then extended into the northern plains, where 3.8 cm (1.5 inches) hail was recorded near Strasburg, followed by 2.5 cm (1 inch) hail near Natural Fort in Weld County.
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