The South African weather services has warned that extreme weather conditions – which have led to heavy rain, strong winds, thunderstorms and flash floods – is likely to continue on Friday. The thunderstorms which have hit Joburg – causing chaos in the East Rand in particular – has been described as a “once in a century” storm. Flash floods have already claimed at least 6 … [Read more...]
Belgium’s ageing nuclear plants a cause for grave concern
The two cooling towers at Belgium’s Doel nuclear power plant belch thick white steam into a wintry sky, and people across the border in the Dutch town of Nieuw-Namen are on edge. They are part of a groundswell of concern in the Netherlands, Germany and Luxembourg over the safety of Belgium’s seven aging reactors at Doel, to the south, and at Tihange, farther east. “I’m … [Read more...]
Unfolding the gift of tomorrow: leaving a legacy
A daily diet of environmental news from across the planet might sound like quite a radical regime. Yet I firmly believe in the right to know how my species is changing the world into which I have delivered three children. It matters to me that they, and all vulnerable species, are comfortable and protected. Breaking down this home, our planet, is as good as a gang of people … [Read more...]
Scientists sound alarm on climate
Early in his career, a scientist named Mario J. Molina was pulled into seemingly obscure research about strange chemicals being spewed into the atmosphere. Within a year, he had helped discover a global environmental emergency, work that would ultimately win a Nobel Prize. Now, at 70, Dr. Molina is trying to awaken the public to an even bigger risk. He spearheaded a … [Read more...]
Western Cape anticipates heavy rain
Heavy rain is expected in places over West Coast District, Cape Winelands and parts of the Eden District. Heavy rainfall raises the water level. When the water level is higher than the river banks or the dams, water comes out from the river and flooding occurs. Preventive measures: Construct proper drainage system – Shallow drains due to silts must be cleaned constantly … [Read more...]