Mohini Barman

Apple has launched its latest iPhone model with advanced artificial intelligence features integrated into its operating system. The device includes real-time language translation, enhanced photo editing through AI, and smarter Siri voice assistance. CEO Tim Cook said the move reflects Apple’s “commitment to merging hardware, software, and intelligence seamlessly.” Analysts believe this AI push is a response to growing competition from Google and Samsung. Customers in the U.S. and Europe will get the first deliveries next week, while Asian markets, including India, are expected to see rollouts by the end of the month.

Kenya has inaugurated Africa’s largest wind farm near Lake Turkana, capable of generating 310 megawatts of clean electricity. The project, backed by European investment, is expected to provide nearly 20% of Kenya’s energy needs. President William Ruto hailed it as a “green leap forward,” saying renewable energy will cut reliance on fossil fuels and create jobs. Environmental groups praised the initiative, urging other African nations to replicate Kenya’s model in addressing climate change.

Authorities have ordered precautionary evacuations as Hurricane Lee moves closer to the U.S. East Coast. The Category 3 storm is expected to bring torrential rains, strong winds, and possible storm surges to parts of North Carolina and Virginia. The National Hurricane Center warned residents to secure property and prepare for power outages. Emergency shelters have been opened, while airlines canceled dozens of flights in anticipation. Experts say warming ocean waters are fueling stronger hurricanes, making preparedness more critical.

Brazil has launched a new initiative to protect the Amazon rainforest, targeting illegal loggers and land grabbers. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva announced an expanded federal task force, with drones and satellite monitoring to track deforestation in real time. The plan aims to meet Brazil’s climate commitments while safeguarding indigenous communities. Environmentalists welcomed the move, but warned implementation will be key. The Amazon, often called the “lungs of the Earth,” is vital for global climate stability, and its protection has drawn worldwide attention.

California is experiencing one of its most intense heatwaves in recent years, with temperatures crossing 44°C in several inland areas. Authorities have urged residents to conserve energy to prevent blackouts, as the state’s power grid comes under stress from high demand for air conditioning. Public health departments have opened cooling centers for vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly and children. Firefighters remain on high alert, with multiple wildfires already reported in northern counties. Experts link the worsening heat to climate change, warning such events could become more frequent.

Japan has inaugurated a new Shinkansen (bullet train) line connecting Kanazawa with Tsuruga, cutting travel time by more than an hour. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said the expansion will boost tourism and regional economies. Japan’s Shinkansen, famous for its speed and safety, is also being studied by India for its Mumbai–Ahmedabad high-speed rail project. Experts say Japan’s success provides valuable lessons for South Asia as it looks to modernize transport infrastructure.

Hurricane Fiona made landfall on the US East Coast, leaving more than 200,000 homes without power. The storm brought heavy rainfall, flooding, and winds exceeding 120 km/h. Emergency shelters have been opened in coastal areas, while authorities urged residents to stay indoors. Airports in the region canceled dozens of flights, and schools remain closed. US President Joe Biden assured federal aid and warned that climate-driven storms are becoming stronger. Meteorologists said Fiona may continue northward, possibly affecting Canada.

Saudi Arabia has announced plans for King Salman International Airport, a massive new facility designed to handle up to 120 million passengers annually by 2030. The airport will feature smart terminals, green energy use, and connections to the high-speed rail network. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said the project is part of Vision 2030, aimed at diversifying the economy and making Riyadh a global aviation hub. The airport is expected to create over 100,000 jobs and attract significant foreign investment. Aviation experts say it could rival hubs like Dubai and Doha, reshaping air travel in the Middle East.

Hurricane Fiona made landfall on Florida’s western coast with winds exceeding 140 km/h, flooding coastal cities and knocking out power for over two million people. Emergency crews rescued stranded residents as roads and homes were submerged. Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency, urging people to remain indoors. Schools and airports have been shut down, while federal agencies are rushing aid. The National Weather Service warned that heavy rains could continue for days, increasing the risk of landslides and flash floods. Scientists point out that stronger storms are becoming more frequent due to climate change, fueling calls for stronger…

South Africa is hosting a high-level climate summit where African leaders are pressing wealthy nations to invest more in renewable energy on the continent. The summit, attended by UN officials and European leaders, emphasized Africa’s potential in solar and wind power. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said the continent contributes the least to global emissions but suffers the most from climate change impacts such as droughts and floods. Leaders urged developed countries to honor their climate finance pledges, stressing that Africa should not be left behind in the global green transition.