Environment
First Case of Deadly Mpox Strain Reported Outside Africa, In Sweden
Sweden’s public health agency has confirmed the first case of mpox Clade 1b, a more dangerous and deadly strain, outside the African continent. The individual contracted the virus during a stay in an ar-ea of Africa where a major outbreak is occurring. This news comes shortly after the World Health Or-ganization (WHO) declared the mpox outbreak in parts of Africa a public health emergency of interna-tional concern.
At least 450 people have died in the initial outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the dis-ease has since spread to Central and East Africa. The infected person in Sweden sought medical care in the Stockholm area and is receiving treatment. According to Olivia Wigzell, acting head of the Swedish public health agency, the risk to the broader population is low.
Read also : WHO Declares Mpox a Global Public Health Emergency As Cases Surge
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is transmitted through close contact and causes flu-like symp-toms, skin lesions, and can be fatal. The WHO has urged countries to act quickly and transparently, as further imported cases of Clade 1 are expected in the European region.
Experts consider the first case outside Africa concerning, as it indicates a potentially larger spread. However, the mortality rate in Europe is expected to be lower due to high-quality healthcare. Vaccines are available, but concerns remain about availability and funding to reach those most in need.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has outlined symptoms and risks, emphasiz-ing the importance of swift international action to contain the spread of the disease.
Environment
Rising Threats: Morocco Faces Unprecedented Climate Challenges

Morocco has emerged as one of North Africa’s most climate-vulnerable countries, according to the World Meteorological Organisation’s 2024 “State of the Climate in Africa” report.
The kingdom faces escalating threats, including prolonged droughts, rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and flash floods that have caused heavy human and material losses.
Environmental expert, Mostapha Aissat, described recent climate events in Morocco as “unprecedented in the country’s history,” citing seven consecutive years of drought and destructive floods across the south and southeast.
The 2022 wildfires that devoured over 20,000 hectares of forest, severely impacting biodiversity and agriculture, are a stark reminder of the country’s vulnerability to climate-related disasters.
Aissat warned that two global indicators suggest worsening conditions: global warming and the continued failure of major polluting nations to halve CO₂ emissions by 2030, as outlined in the Paris Agreement.
He also noted the rising risk of natural disasters beyond climate change, such as earthquakes, referencing Morocco’s 2023 Al Haouz quake.
Climate expert, Ali Cherroud, added that Morocco’s geography, from mountains to coasts to deserts, makes it uniquely exposed to a wide spectrum of seasonal and non-seasonal disasters.
The country’s position at the intersection of cold, humid northern currents and hot, dry southern flows intensifies its susceptibility to extremes.
Cherroud welcomed the newly announced National Natural Disaster Centre in the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region, calling it a “proactive shift” in disaster management and urging its replication across Morocco.
He emphasized the need for a national roadmap based on early warning, rapid response, and risk forecasting to shield lives and assets.
With converging international assessments and on-the-ground observations, experts say climate preparedness is no longer optional – it is Morocco’s new strategic imperative.
The country must take a proactive approach to disaster management, investing in early warning systems, rapid response mechanisms, and risk forecasting to mitigate the impacts of climate-related disasters.
Environment
UK Invests £180 Million In Solar Panels For Schools And Hospitals

In a bid to reduce the country’s planet-warming emissions, the UK government has announced a £180 million investment in solar panels for hundreds of schools and hospitals across the country.
This move is part of the government’s efforts to achieve its long-term climate goals and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
The investment, which is the first major project from Great British Energy, the government’s new state owned energy company, is expected to provide solar panels for 200 schools and 200 hospitals.
This will not only help reduce energy bills but also cut carbon emissions and promote sustainability.
According to Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, “Great British Energy’s first major project will be to help our vital public institutions save hundreds of millions on bills to reinvest on the frontline.”
He added that the project will help reduce the financial pressure of energy bills on schools and hospitals.
The announcement has been welcomed by schools, unions, and NHS estate managers, who have long been advocating for measures to reduce energy costs.
Paul Whiteman, NAHT general secretary, said that the investment is a “step in the right direction” and will help schools manage energy bills, which have been a significant financial burden in recent years.
However, not everyone is optimistic about the investment.
Andrew Bowie, shadow energy secretary, argued that the government’s net zero plans will make the country “poorer.”
He claimed that the investment will lead to increased reliance on foreign powers like Russia.
In contrast, energy experts believe that investing in renewable energy will reduce the UK’s reliance on imports.
Jess Ralston, energy analyst at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, said that the investment in solar panels will improve energy security and reduce the amount of gas imported from countries like Russia.
The first solar panels are expected to be installed by the end of the summer, with a focus on areas of “highest need.”
Environment
“Florida Battles Devastation: Hurricane Milton’s Destruction and Resilience Efforts”

Hurricane Milton ravaged Florida with fierce winds, flooding, and tornadoes, leaving 16 dead and millions without power. Communities face widespread destruction, as stories of survival and rescue emerge, including daring evacuations and rebuilding efforts. As officials warn against disaster sightseeing, residents and authorities focus on recovery. The storm highlights the urgent need for climate action and preparedness, as Floridians confront the realities of living in a storm-prone state.
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