Weather

Tuvalu’s Minister of Climate Change Maina Talia has told Al Jazeera that his country is fighting to stay above rising sea levels and needs “real commitments” from other countries that will allow Tuvaluans to “stay in Tuvalu” as the climate crisis worsens.

The low-lying nation of nine atolls and islands, which is situated between Australia and Hawaii in the Pacific Ocean, is fighting to maintain its sovereignty by exploring new avenues in international diplomacy.

But, right now, the country needs help just to stay above water.

“Coming from a country that is barely not one metre above the sea, reclaiming land and building sea walls and building our resilience is the number one priority for us,” Talia told Al Jazeera in an interview during the recent United Nations General Assembly in New York.

“We cannot delay any more. Climate finance is important for our survival,” Talia said.

“It’s not about building [over the] next two or three years to come, but right now, and we need it now, in order for us to respond to the climate crisis,” he said.

Talia, who is also Tuvalu’s minister of home affairs and the environment, said the issue of financing will be a key issue at the upcoming UN COP30 climate meeting in Belem, in the Brazilian Amazon, in November.

‘You pollute, you pay’

Tuvalu is one of many countries already pushing for a better deal on climate financing at this year’s COP, after many advocates left last year’s meeting in Azerbaijan disappointed by the unambitious $300bn target set by richer countries.

Describing the COP climate meeting as having become more like a “festival for the oil-producing countries”, Talia said Tuvalu is also exploring a range of alternative initiatives, from a push to create the world’s first fossil fuel non-proliferation treaty to seeking to add its entire cultural heritage to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Representatives of oil-producing countries are now attending the COP climate meetings in “big numbers”, Talia said, in order to try and “really bury our voice as small developing countries”.

“They take control of the narrative. They take control of the process. They try to water down all the texts. They try to put a stop to climate finance,” Talia said.

“It’s about time that we should call out to the world that finance is important for us to survive,” he said.

“The polluter pay principle is still there. You pollute, you pay,” he added.

Talia also said that it was frustrating to see his own country struggling to survive, while other countries continue to spend billions of dollars on weapons for current and future wars.

“Whilst your country is facing this existential threat, it’s quite disappointing to see that the world is investing billions and trillions of dollars in wars, in conflicts,” he said.

A report released this week by the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) found that 39 small island countries, which are home to some 65 million people, already need about $12bn a year to help them cope with the effects of climate change.

That figure is many times more than the roughly $2bn a year they are collectively receiving now, and which represents just 0.2 percent of the amount spent on global climate finance worldwide.

GCA, a Rotterdam-based nonprofit organisation, also found that island states are already experiencing an average $1.7bn in annual economic losses due to climate change.

Tuvalu is not only focused on its own survival – the island state is considered to be facing one of the most severe existential threats from rising sea levels – it is also continuing to find ways to fight climate change globally.

“That’s why Tuvalu is leading the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty,” Talia said.

About 16 countries have now signed on to the treaty, with Colombia offering to host the first international conference for the phase-out of fossil fuels next year.

“We see its relevance for us,” Talia said of the treaty.

“We want to grow in number in order for us to come up with a treaty, apart from the Paris Agreement,” he said.

‘We need to hold the industrialised countries accountable’

Even as Tuvalu, a country with a population of less than 10,000 people, is fighting for immediate action on climate change, it is also making preparations for its own uncertain future, including creating a digital repository of its culture so that nothing is lost to the sea.

Talia, who is also Tuvalu’s minister for culture, said that he made the formal preliminary submission to UNESCO two weeks before the UNGA meeting for “the whole of Tuvalu to be listed” on the World Heritage List.

“If we are to disappear, which is something that we don’t want to anticipate, but if worst comes to worst, at least you know our values, our culture, heritage, are well secured,” he told Al Jazeera.

Likewise, Talia said his country doesn’t see its 2023 cooperation pact with Australia, which also includes the world’s first climate change migration visa, as an indication that the island’s future is sealed.

“I don’t look at the Falepili Agreement as a way of escaping the issue of climate change, but rather a pathway,” he said.

“A pathway that we will allow our people in Tuvalu to get good education, trained, and then return home,” he said, referring to the agreement giving some Tuvaluans access to education, healthcare and unlimited travel to Australia.

The agreement text includes an acknowledgement from both parties that “the statehood and sovereignty of Tuvalu will continue, and the rights and duties inherent thereto will be maintained, notwithstanding the impact of climate change-related sea level rise”.

Talia also said that a recent ruling from the UN’s top court, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, declared that states have a responsibility to address climate change by cooperating to cut emissions, following through on climate agreements, and protecting vulnerable populations and ecosystems from harm.

The ICJ ruling “really changed the whole context of climate change debates”, Talia said.

“The highest court has spoken, the highest court has delivered the judgement,” he said of the case, which was brought before the ICJ by Tuvalu’s neighbour Vanuatu.

“So it’s just a matter of, how are we going to live that, or weave that, into our climate policies,” he said.

“We need to hold the industrialised countries accountable to their actions,” he added.

Under blazing skies at a tea plantation in India’s northeastern state of Assam, worker Kamini Kurmi wears an umbrella fastened over her head to keep her hands free to pluck delicate leaves from the bushes.

“When it’s really hot, my head spins and my heart begins to beat very fast,” said Kurmi, one of the many women employed for their dextrous fingers, instead of machines that harvest most conventional crops within a matter of days.

Weather extremes are shrivelling harvests on India’s tea plantations, endangering the future of an industry renowned for beverages as refreshing as the state of Assam and the adjoining hill station of Darjeeling in West Bengal state, while reshaping a global trade estimated at more than $10bn a year.

“Shifts in temperature and rainfall patterns are no longer occasional anomalies; they are the new normal,” said Rupanjali Deb Baruah, a scientist at the Tea Research Association.

As changing patterns reduce yields and stall output, rising domestic consumption in India is expected to shrink exports from the world’s second-largest tea producer.

While output stagnates in other key producers such as Kenya and Sri Lanka, declining Indian exports, which made up 12 percent of global trade last year, could boost prices.

Tea prices at Indian auctions have grown by just 4.8 percent a year for three decades, far behind the 10 percent achieved by staples such as wheat and rice.

The mildly warm, humid conditions crucial for Assam’s tea-growing districts are increasingly being disrupted by lengthy dry spells and sudden, intense rains.

Such weather not only helps pests breed, but also forces estate owners to turn to the rarely used practice of irrigating plantations, said Mritunjay Jalan, the owner of an 82-year-old tea estate in Assam’s Tinsukia district.

Rainfall there has dropped by more than 250mm (10 inches) between 1921 and 2024, while minimum temperatures have risen by 1.2 degrees Celsius (2.2 degrees Fahrenheit), the Tea Research Association says.

The monsoon, Assam’s key source of rain, as summer and winter showers have nearly disappeared, brought rainfall this season that was 38 percent below average.

That has helped to shorten the peak output season to just a few months, narrowing the harvesting window, said senior tea planter Prabhat Bezboruah.

Patchy rains bring more frequent pest infestations, leaving tea leaves discoloured, blotched brown, and sometimes riddled with tiny holes.

These measures, in turn, add to costs, which are already rising at 8 to 9 percent a year, driven up by higher wages and prices of fertiliser, said Hemant Bangur, chairman of the leading industry body, the Indian Tea Association.

Planters say government incentives are insufficient to spur replanting, crucial in Assam, where many colonial-era tea bushes yield less and lose resilience to weather as they age beyond the usual productive span of 40 to 50 years.

India’s tea industry has flourished for nearly 200 years, but its share of global trade could fall below the 2024 figure of 12 percent, as the increasing prosperity of a growing population boosts demand at home.

Domestic consumption jumped 23 percent over the past decade to 1.2 million tonnes, far outpacing production growth of 6.3 percent, the Indian Tea Association says.

While exports of quality tea have shrunk in recent years, India’s imports have grown, nearly doubling in 2024 to a record 45,300 tonnes.

That adds expense for overseas buyers, said executives of India’s leading merchants, at a time when global competitors such as Kenya face similar problems.

Heavy rains continue to disrupt rescue operations in the Himalayan nation as authorities struggle to respond to the crisis.

Landslides and flash floods, triggered by heavy rains, have killed at least 47 people, blocked roads and washed away bridges in Nepal.

Thirty-five people were killed in separate landslides in the Ilam district in the east bordering India, Kalidas Dhauboji, a spokesperson for the Armed Police Force, said on Sunday.

Nine people were missing after being washed away by floods since Friday and three others were killed in lightning strikes elsewhere in Nepal, he added, as relentless downpours pummelled eastern and central regions of the Himalayan nation.

“Rescue efforts for the missing persons are going on,” said Shanti Mahat, a National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority spokesperson in Nepal.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has declared Monday and Tuesday as public holidays nationwide, exempting emergency services and disaster response teams, as the government battles the crisis.

Government spokesperson Rameshwar Dangal cited forecasts of heavy rains as justification for the unusual measure.

Meteorological authorities have also placed more than a dozen districts on red alert, with department chief Kamal Ram Joshi warning the residents near waterways to evacuate immediately, The Kathmandu Post newspaper reported.

The alert covers major population centres, including parts of the capital, Kathmandu, with Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini and Madhesh provinces expected to bear the brunt of continued downpours through Monday morning.

Transport infrastructure has suffered extensive damage, with landslides cutting all major routes into Kathmandu.

The Araniko Highway connecting Kathmandu to China’s border is blocked after road collapses at multiple points, while the BP Highway linking the eastern regions is buried under debris.

Aviation authorities suspended domestic flights on Saturday due to poor visibility, though international operations continued with some disruptions.

“Domestic flights are largely disrupted, but international flights are operating normally,” said Rinji Sherpa, a spokesperson for Kathmandu airport.

The crisis has been compounded by its timing, striking as hundreds of thousands of people return from their homes following the Dashain celebrations, Nepal’s most important religious festival. Thursday was the main day of the two-week festival when people travel to their native villages to visit their families.

Of particular concern is the Koshi River in southeastern Nepal, where water levels have surged to more than twice their normal volume.

Local official Dharmendra Kumar Mishra confirmed that all 56 sluice gates at the Koshi Barrage have been opened – compared with the usual 10 to 12 – while authorities consider restricting heavy vehicles from crossing its bridge.

The river regularly causes devastating flooding in India’s Bihar state during the monsoons.

In the eastern Indian hill region of Darjeeling in West Bengal state, at least seven people were killed due to landslides following heavy rainfall, according to local media reports.

“Seven dead bodies have already been recovered from the debris. We have information about two more people. Work is being done to recover their bodies too,” Abhishek Roy, a Darjeeling district police official said on Sunday, the Reuters news agency reported.

Hundreds of people die every year in landslides and flash floods that are common in mostly mountainous Nepal during the monsoon season, which normally starts in mid-June and continues through mid-September.

In the recent Post Office Travel Money long-haul bargains report, Barbados had the biggest price drop since 2023, with a basket of essentials falling almost 19% in price

The price of staying in an island destination with white sand beaches and palm trees has plummeted in recent years.

In the UK, the cost of living has been on a steady rise since the COVID-19 pandemic. While inflation is now down to 4% after a rough couple of years in which it hit 11.1%, it continues to outstrip the wage inflation of around 3%. That means, for most people, life is getting more expensive.

All the more reason to head to a destination where the relative price of holiday staples such as beer, wine and meals out has been tumbling.

In the recent Post Office Travel Money long-haul bargains report, Barbados had the biggest price drop since 2023, with a basket of essentials falling almost 19% in price.

A bottle of lager costs £2.78 and a cup of coffee £2.54, while a cocktail will set you back £6.34 and a glass of wine £4.76 on average. This is significantly pricier than destinations at the top of the list such as Hoi An in Vietnam, where coffee costs just £1.21 and beer £1.23.

However, Barbados has a reputation as more of a premium holiday location and is a relatively small island, so you’d expect prices to be a bit higher. Especially given the fantastic weather in Barbados, where the average temperature in October and November is 30C.

That said, the falling cost of holiday goods and the presence of some surprisingly good value accommodation options mean you can still experience this beautiful island without breaking the bank.

The more affordable options start from just £82.52 per night for two adults. One such option is Ocean Spray Apartments. Situated right on the beach, these eco-friendly apartments offer stunning views of the renowned Surfer’s Point – an ideal choice for ocean lovers.

Another budget-friendly choice on Barbados’s south coast is the family-owned Carambola Hotel, just a five-minute stroll from the beach. With rates starting at a mere £87 per night for two adults, it’s a real steal.

As for dining, Barbados offers incredible food that won’t burn a hole in your pocket. The island’s cuisine is a vital part of its identity, and travellers seeking authentic island flavours will discover that some of the best meals come without a hefty price tag.

A trip to Oistins Fish Fry on a Friday night is a must-do. It offers a mix of fresh seafood, music, and a buzzing community vibe. Locals and tourists rub shoulders, tucking into grilled marlin, flying fish, and macaroni pie straight off the grill.

Expect to pay between £11 – £13 per head. There are also top-notch fast food options, including Rihanna’s beloved Chefette. A meal here will set you back around £7. But it’s not your average fast food joint – famous for its legendary rotis, crispy fried chicken and tropical milkshakes, Chefette is a true Bajan gem.

When it comes to activities, Barbados is ideal for those travelling on a (relatively long) shoestring. The island’s breathtaking natural beauty can be enjoyed without spending a penny. Every beach in Barbados is open to the public, meaning holidaymakers can unwind on the same gorgeous sands as the celebs.

Pebbles Beach, in particular, offers a uniquely Bajan experience, as racehorses from the nearby stables are brought down to the shore each morning for a swim, a sight that combines local culture with natural beauty and won’t cost you a thing.

Getting to Barbados can be much cheaper than some of the other destinations listed on the Post Office Travel Money report. Skyscanner is currently listing a return flight in November from £407.

The Post Office Money report highlights how Hoi An isn’t just a cheap place to visit, but that it’s getting cheaper. Across a basket of ten holiday items visitors are likely to buy, Hoi An was the cheapest of the long-haul destinations looked at, and 10% cheaper than it was in 2023

A 15th century city with rows of colourful houses has been named as the best value destination for winter-sun breaks.

Hoi An in Vietnam returns to the number one spot it last held in 2023 in the Post Office Money rankings of the best long haul destinations, ideal for jetting away from our miserable shores to in the long, wintery days ahead.

The town is an exceptionally well-preserved example of a South-East Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. The unique heritage site show influences from Vietnam and further afield, coming together to produce a unique public space.

In the evenings the lights from the yellow painted buildings and orange sun reflect off the water in a captivating way. Thanks to an Unesco decree, more than 800 buildings have been preserved, meaning the village looks much like it did several centuries ago.

“My favorite way to explore any new city is by walking and seeing what hidden treasures I can find. Because cars and motorbikes aren’t allowed to drive in the Ancient Town for the majority of the day, the area is prime for exploring on foot,” suggests blogger Travel Lush.

“Wandering aimlessly around the Ancient Town is easily one of the best things to do in Hoi An. And sure, it is very touristy, but I always love marveling at the old buildings, snapping photos of the postcard-perfect alleyways, sampling street snacks and popping into all of the little shops – you honestly never know what gems you’ll stumble upon in Hoi An’s historic center. The people-watching is pretty great too!

“Getting the chance to take in Hoi An’s magical scenery from a bicycle is one of my all-time favorite Hoi An activities. Cycling is big in Hoi An and most hotels here offer complimentary bicycles. It’s an incredible way to check out all of the city’s beautiful temples, emerald rice paddies and everyday street scenes.”

The Post Office Money report highlights how Hoi An isn’t just a cheap place to visit, but that it’s getting cheaper. Across a basket of ten holiday items visitors are likely to buy, Hoi An was the cheapest of the long-haul destinations looked at, and 10% cheaper than it was in 2023.

Visitors can bag a bottle of lager for £1.23 and a cup of coffee for slightly less.

Another big draw of the destination is how pleasant its weather is. Throughout the year the Vietnamese city enjoys temperature of around 29C on most days. However, it does have a long rainy season, from November through to January, so it may be wise to visit before, during the autumn, or from February.

While it may be cheap once you’re there, getting to Vietnam will cost you. Right now Skyscanner is listing return flights from the UK for £780.

There are plenty of other revelations in the Post Office Money report, which saw places in India and the Far East dominate the value top ten, taking seven of its places.

Last year’s leader Cape Town, in South Africa, is still a good bet for value in second place. Bali, Indonesia is in third. A three-course meal with wine costs just £35.48, the cheapest in the survey.

Mombasa, Kenya moved up to fourth place, beating Tokyo, which got more expensive. Penang, Malaysia and Phuket, Thailand are now in the top 10 after prices falls there. Lower prices in Colombo, Sri Lanka too saw it jump ahead of Delhi, India in our tables

The shutdown of the U.S. government has brought work determined by the Trump administration to be “nonessential” to a halt across the country as thousands of federal employees have been furloughed and ordered not to do their jobs.

The shutdown — the first in six years — began late Tuesday and could last days if not weeks. Many employees may not return to work at all, as the White House’s Office of Management and Budget recently advised federal agencies to prepare for mass layoffs in the event of a shutdown.

While much of the fallout remains to be seen, federal agencies that deal with wildfires, weather and disaster response — including the U.S. Forest Service, the National Weather Service, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Environmental Protection Agency — expect to see some impacts.

Here’s what we know:

The U.S. Forest Service will shut down activities on more than 193 million acres of land across 46 states, including at least 154 national forests, according to the agency’s most recent contingency plan, published in September. Hundreds of recreational sites and facilities will be closed, while work on operations such as timber sales and restoration projects will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

The Forest Service — the largest federal firefighting entity in the country — will continue its work geared toward responding to and preparing for wildfires, according to the plan. However, the agency will reduce some work related to fire prevention, including prescribed burns and the treatment of vegetation to reduce fire risk.

What’s more, the shutdown will delay state grants for forest management and wildland fire preparedness; delay reimbursement for ongoing forest management work on non-federal lands; and may affect states’ ability to train firefighters and acquire necessary equipment, among other impacts, the plan says.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection works closely with the Forest Service to manage fire preparation and response. Cal Fire officials said it does not anticipate any impacts to its ability to respond to blazes, and that the agency is fully staffed.

However, effects may be seen when it comes to federal grant programs that support fire prevention work in the state. For example, private property owners in California who rely on federal funds to conduct vegetation reduction work or create defensible space on their land may have to “front the money themselves” while they await reimbursement said Jesse Torres, deputy chief of communications with Cal Fire.

“The other thing is there are a lot of unknowns,” Torres said. “We don’t know what this is going to look like — is it going to be two days, two weeks, two months?”

Other agencies that play key roles in California’s disaster response and preparation — including the National Weather Service and the Federal Emergency Management Agency — are largely deemed essential and will face fewer interruptions, according to their contingency plans.

“We are still operating in our core mission function and providing most of our normal services,” said Ryan Kittell, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard. That includes weather forecasts and extreme weather watches and warnings.

“The things that we do for public safety will continue as normal,” Kittell said.

About 84% of FEMA employees, meanwhile, are exempt from shutdown-related furloughs, according to its plan, which provides few additional details about which operations will cease or proceed.

Officials with Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office said FEMA staff have advised them that they will continue to make payments for existing disaster declarations made by President Trump, but there’s no guarantee that new or additional disaster declarations or funding will be made available.

FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund — the main source of funding for response and recovery efforts following major disasters — is also running low and is not likely to be replenished during the shutdown. It requires congressional approval for additional funds.

What’s more, FEMA, the National Weather Service and the Forest Service have already been affected by significant budget cuts and layoffs this year as part of the Trump administration’s larger reorganization of the federal government, which it says will help save taxpayers money.

These agencies, including NWS’ parent agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, have lost thousands of employees to layoffs and buyouts and have experienced reduced operations, grant cancellations and the closure of offices and research arms.

The same is true for the EPA, which has undergone staff cuts and layoffs in addition to a considerable shift in its organizational priorities. The nation’s top environmental agency has spent the last several months loosening regulations that govern air and water quality, electric vehicle initiatives, pollution monitoring and greenhouse gas reporting, among other changes.

Experts said the shutdown could further weaken the EPA’s capabilities, as nearly all of its employees — about 90% — will be furloughed. While the EPA’s imminent disaster response work will continue, such as work on oil spills and chemical releases, longer-term efforts including research projects and facility inspections will halt, according to the agency.

Meanwhile, H.D. Palmer, a spokesman with the California Department of Finance, said impacts to the California EPA’s environmental programs should be minimal if the shutdown is brief, but that problems could arise if it drags on long enough to create backlogs and funding lapses.

The average length of government shutdowns over the last 50 years was seven days, Palmer said. However, he noted that the most recent federal shutdown from December 2018 to January 2019 — during Trump’s first term — lasted 35 days.

More than 350 people have been rescued after the southern Ukrainian city was hit by two months of rain in just seven hours.

At least nine people, including one child, have been killed after a severe rainstorm and flooding in the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa, according to the country’s emergency services.

A total of 362 others have been rescued so far as workers evacuated trapped people and pumped water out of buildings, Ukraine’s State Emergency Service said on Wednesday.

A little girl who had been missing was found in the early morning thanks to the relief efforts, the service added.

It posted pictures of people rescued from a flooded bus and of vehicles being pulled from the water.

Gennadiy Trukhanov, the mayor of Odesa, who said the situation was difficult but “under control”, wrote that almost two months of rain had fallen in the city in just seven hours.

“No storm sewer system can withstand such a load,” the mayor said on Telegram, noting that rescue efforts were continuing “without a break”.

More bad weather is forecast for Thursday, potentially adding to the challenges faced by Ukrainian first responders, three-and-a-half years after Russia launched its full-scale invasion.

The weather-related deaths came as the local military administration in the southern city of Kherson said a man had died on Wednesday morning as a result of a Russian attack there.

Meanwhile, an overnight Russian attack on the northeast Ukrainian city of Kharkiv injured six people, including a policeman, and started several fires, according to the national police.

Five of the six people were taken to hospital for treatment, said Oleh Syniehubov, the governor of Kharkiv region.

Videos and photos from the scene showed firefighters attempting to extinguish flames that appeared to be ripping through market stalls.

Over in Russia, the regional governor, Mikhail Yevrayev, reported that a fire had broken out at an oil refinery in the Yaroslavl region.

Despite Ukraine’s continued targeting of oil facilities inside Russia, Yevrayev claimed that the blaze had nothing to do with its ongoing war with Ukraine.

“Residents were concerned it might have been the result of an enemy drone attack,” he said. But what happened has nothing to do with that …The fire is of a technological nature.”

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that the situation at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is “critical” as the facility has been without power for seven days.

“It has been seven days now. There has never been anything like this before,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly address on Tuesday.

The Russian-installed management at the nuclear plant said on Wednesday that backup electricity supply at the plant is sufficient, but that resumption of supply via the Dneprovskaya line is impossible due to Ukrainian shelling, Russian state news agency RIA reported.

Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), confirmed late on Tuesday that he was “in constant contact with the two sides with the aim to enable the plant’s swift reconnection to the electricity grid”.

“While the plant is currently coping thanks to its emergency diesel generators — the last line of defence — and there is no immediate danger as long as they keep working, it is clearly not a sustainable situation in terms of nuclear safety,” he said.

A typhoon that ripped roofs from homes has killed dozens of people across Vietnam and the Philippines, officials from both countries said, as a weakened Storm Bualoi crossed into neighbouring Laos.

The typhoon battered small islands in central Philippines last week, toppling trees and power pylons, unleashing floods, and forcing 400,000 people to evacuate. A Philippine civil defence official on Monday said the death toll there had more than doubled to 27, with most victims either drowning or being struck by debris.

Scientists warn that storms are becoming increasingly powerful as the planet warms due to human-induced climate change.

In Vietnam, Bualoi made landfall as a typhoon late on Sunday, generating winds of up to 130 kilometres per hour (80 miles per hour). At least 13 people were killed, while a search is ongoing for 20 others, disaster authorities stated in an online update.

More than 44,200 houses were damaged, including many with roofs torn off, predominantly in the central province of Ha Tinh. At least 800 homes were flooded and nearly 6,000 hectares (15,000 acres) of crops were inundated, according to the update.

At least nine people died when a typhoon-related whirlwind swept through the northern Vietnamese province of Ninh Binh early on Monday, according to the local disaster agency. One person was killed in the province of Hue and another in Thanh Hoa, with about 20 people reported missing by local and national disaster authorities.

More than 53,000 people were evacuated to schools and medical centres converted into temporary shelters before Bualoi made landfall in Vietnam, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment said.

Four domestic airports, as well as parts of the national highway, were closed on Monday. More than 180 flights were cancelled or delayed, according to airport authorities. Parts of Nghe An and the steel-producing central province of Ha Tinh were without power, and schools were closed in affected regions.

Since making landfall in Vietnam, Bualoi has weakened as it moved across the border into Laos. It came in the wake of Super Typhoon Ragasa, which killed 14 people across northern Philippines. The country is struck by an average of 20 storms and typhoons each year, routinely affecting disaster-prone areas where millions of people live.

In Vietnam, 175 people were killed or went missing due to natural disasters from January to August this year, according to the General Statistics Office. Total damages were estimated at $371m, almost triple the amount during the same period in 2024, it said.

Typhoon Yagi killed hundreds of people in Vietnam in September last year and caused economic losses worth $3.3bn.

Several people are dead or missing in Vietnam where thousands of residents were still being evacuated as Typhoon Bualoi made landfall sooner than forecast.

While most European holiday destinations are winding down in October there’s one island in the Mediterranean where the resorts are still lively and the weather stays warm

If the thought of chilly autumn mornings, rain and wind fill you with pure dread, you may be looking to book a break in October for a final taste of warming late summer sun.

Many resorts start to shut up shop at this time of year and wind down their tourist attractions as visitor numbers decline, the nights draw in and the temperatures start to drop.

However, there’s one island in the Mediterranean where the main destinations remain very much open with plenty to offer holiday makers who aren’t quite ready to accept summer is over or who want to treat the kids to a half term trip to help ease those back to school blues.

The third largest island in the Med, Cyprus, is located in sparkling azure waters southeast of Greece and south of Turkey. Less than a five hour flight from the UK, it is one of the warmest places in this part of the European Union thanks to its subtropical climate and the summer generally lasts eight months from April through to November.

Temperatures during October can reach 28C or higher on occasion and even in the cooler four months, it’s possible to enjoy 20C. Coastal areas in December enjoy as many hours of sunshine as London does in May on average so sun seekers are certainly well catered for.

The main resorts make the most of their balmy climes and welcome holidaymakers late into the season. On the East Coast restaurants and kids’ clubs in Paphos and Limassol are still running and lively.

The beaches in Protaras and Ayia Napa are heaving in high summer but by this time of year are much calmer so great for families to make the most of with the sea temperature averaging around 24C.

Those with younger children or elderly travellers may prefer the sandy, serene beach of Fig Tree Bay in Protaras where it’s possible to explore the beautiful turquoise waters with a spot of snorkeling or on a boat trip. Limassol offers a long stretch of gorgeous coastline with some Blue Flag beaches and a stunning marina.

For those wanting something more energetic than making sandcastles and dozing in the sun, the island has plenty of water and amusement parks.

The always buzzing Ayia Napa is home to a number, with the Greek mythology-themed WaterWorld being the most famous, while the naturally landscaped Aphrodite Waterpark is situated in Paphos.

It’s here that fans of ancient history can also visit the Tombs of the Kings. The UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors a glimpse into the mysterious burial practices in underground tombs dating back to the 4th century. Larnaca, the oldest city in Cyprus also has a wealth of historical sites, museums, churches and cathedrals.

Traditional Cypriot cuisine is influenced by Greece and the Middle East. Meze is very popular, with a selection of small dishes such as dips, grilled meats, seafood and cheese, particularly halloumi, which is the national cheese.

Souvlaki (charcoal skewered meat) and Stifado – a hearty stew as well makaronia tou fournou, which is a baked pasta dish, is also very popular and tasty. There are plenty of options for the fussier palate or younger visitors, with restaurants offering British inspired menus.

Recent visitors to Cyprus have shared their experiences on Tripadvisor, with one advising on the weather during autumn. “We have been four times to Paphos in October,” they wrote.

“The temperature in mid October in the early afternoon has been around 28 degrees with beautiful blue skies. We have been able to eat outside in the early evening and used a pashmina later.

“Could still swim in the pool but it was a bit chilly. The sea, however, was fine to swim in.” Another added: “We’re always there mid-October and it’s lovely – still short sleeves in the evenings.”

FASHION lovers are raving about a supermarket coat in the style of the season that’s perfect for autumn.

Now that the weather has gotten colder, and the nights are drawing in, you may have started layering up when out and about.

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And some stunning pieces have popped up at Sainsbury’s in-store and online.

Tu Clothing is the supermarket‘s in-house fashion label and regularly delights fashion fans with its stylish buys at bargain prices.

The Navy Check Short Scarf Coat, in particular, has been catching the eye of savvy fashionistas.

The scarf-coat combo is one of the biggest outerwear trends on the catwalks for AW25.

The chic, stylish update on a wardrobe staple means that you no longer have to faff around adding an extra accessory to your look – your coat already has a matching scarf attached.

And the scarf is detachable so you can decide if you want to have it as part of your outfit or not. 

The stylish Sainsbury’s version is priced at £55 and comes in sizes XS to XL.

Describing it on the website, supermarket bosses say: “A timeless piece for colder weather, our navy short coat comes in a check design with button fastening and front pockets.

“Crafted with a touch of wool for extra warmth. Includes a matching scarf for an effortlessly stylish look this season.”

It’s already been hailed as one of the supermarket’s bestsellers for autumn and has racked up rave reviews online too.

One delighted shopper gushed: “A really cosy coat, love the detachable scarf.

“I ordered a size smaller, I’m glad I did as it is really roomy. I love the material and colour.”

“Very happy with this jacket, loose fit so lots of room for sweaters below”, added a second.

A third wrote: “Really delighted by the jacket. Looks classy on and the scarf (which can be detached) is an added bonus.

“Will make a lovely warm jacket going into autumn/winter. I did go down 2 sizes to get the fit and look I wanted.”

A fourth said: “This coat is so soft. Very pleased, the colours are gorgeous and it’s very stylish.”

A fifth chimed in: “Love this coat. It’s cosy and very smart and fashionable.

“Lovely to have a warm detachable scarf as well. Very well made too.

“Just love it. Can’t wait for it to be cold enough to wear it. Well done Tu.”

Meanwhile, a sixth echoed: “I really like this coat, it feels very soft and looks very smart.

“It is quite large but I believe that is the cocoon style. I love the colours and the matching scarf. It is also a very good price.”

IF you’re looking for a stylish buy to add to your home that will also make it feel cosier, B&M has got you covered.

The bargain retailer’s extra large shaggy faux rug is perfect for warming up your feet as temperatures dip over autumn and winter.

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It’s also an affordable way to spruce up your space for the colder months after being marked down in the sale.

The cream shaggy faux fur rug was originally priced at £18.

But it’s currently scanning for just £4.50. This works out at a huge £13.50 saving.

And it’s not just an insulation solution for your floors.

A savvy bargain hunter revealed she has been using the rug as a throw for her bed and sofa after snapping up two in her local store.

Posting on the BARGAIN LOVERS – Poundland, Home Bargains, B&M, Primark, The Range & More Facebook group, which boasts 910,000 members, Jayne said: “Bargain down to £4.50 at B&M.

“iv put one on my sofa and bed “

Other shoppers are now racing to pick one up, as one gushed: “I need.”

A second asked a loved one: “Have u any in if so please save me 2 an let me know.”

Meanwhile, a third cried: “I need a new rug!!! When we going?”

Elsewhere in store, a mum has revealed the top B&M buys you can grab now to spread the cost of Christmas shopping.

Kirsty, who jokingly describes herself as ”Christmas crazy”, recently shared the epic haul of goodies she got her teenager ahead of the festive season.

While some people reckon Christmas shopping in September is ”too early” – and even her hubby reckons she’s ”lost the plot” – sorting out the presents months in advance is a great way to spread the cost.

”I start shopping [for Christmas] straight away, soon as the year starts – especially once we get to February, March, April, I’m in full-swing Christmas,” Kirsty told her 29k followers on TikTok.

The monster haul included just some of the items the mum will be treating her 16-year-old daughter to during the festive season.

The majority of the goodies she snapped up as long as six months ago were purchased at B&M and included a range of items.

Mums are also snapping up a £10 festive buy that guarantees an hour of peace from your kids.

Super Typhoon Ragasa, among the most powerful storms to strike Asia in recent years, has hurled waves higher than lampposts across Hong Kong’s promenades and churned coastal waters along southern China after leaving a trail of devastation in Taiwan and the Philippines.

The death toll in Taiwan reached 14 after floodwaters submerged roads and swept away vehicles, while 10 fatalities were confirmed in the northern Philippines.

In Guangdong province, China’s southern economic hub, more than two million residents were evacuated, according to state-run Xinhua news agency.

As Ragasa continues its westward trajectory, authorities suspended select train services in the Guangxi region on Thursday. Chinese officials have allocated tens of millions of dollars towards disaster relief efforts.

Initially, schools, factories and transportation services were suspended across approximately 12 cities, but some areas farther from the landfall site began preparations to resume operations as wind intensity diminished.

Before reaching China, Ragasa inflicted casualties and destruction in Taiwan and the Philippines as it tracked between the two territories.

In Taiwan, the death toll reached 14 after torrential rain caused a barrier lake in Hualien County to overflow on Tuesday, unleashing muddy floodwaters that destroyed a bridge and transformed Guangfu township roads into violent currents carrying away vehicles and furniture.

Of Guangfu’s approximately 8,450 residents, more than half were able to seek refuge on higher floors or elevated terrain.

Rescue teams established contact with more than 100 previously unreachable individuals in Hualien and conducted door-to-door checks on the remaining 17 residents. Across the self-ruled island, 32 people sustained injuries.

In the northern Philippines, at least 10 deaths were reported, including seven fishermen who drowned on Monday when massive waves and fierce winds capsized their boat off Santa Ana in northern Cagayan province. Five additional fishermen remain missing, according to provincial officials.

Nearly 700,000 people were affected by the catastrophic storm, with 25,000 seeking shelter in government emergency facilities.

One traveller came back from a Spanish holiday hotspot bearing crucial advice for anyone mulling over an Autumn break there. Tasha Penney took took to TikTok to share her advice with people

As Britain battles yet another spell of cold and miserable weather, countless people are fantasising about fleeing to warmer shores. The urge to dash off somewhere tropical feels overwhelming, particularly when confronted with Britain’s never-ending downpours.

One traveller who came back from Lanzarote bearing crucial advice for anyone mulling over an Autumn break to the Canary Islands. Tasha Penney, known as @tashapenney_ on TikTok, warned holidaymakers in October last year against trusting weather forecasts too heavily regarding Lanzarote’s conditions. In her eye-opening clip, she explained at the time: “If you’re coming to Lanzarote, and you’ve been worried about the weather, because when you look up online about Lanzarote weather, it always says windy, cloudy, overcast.

“It pretty much says the weather’s like not great most of the time. Don’t be worried, because it’s all a big lie.

“We’ve been here for three days and, every day, it’s said it’s going to be like 24C, cloudy. It actually predicted rain yesterday. None of the times we’ve had any of that. It’s been clear blue skies, the clouds are like that.”

Banishing any remaining concerns, Tasha revealed that the genuine temperatures felt considerably warmer than predicted, offering comfort to prospective tourists that weather worries are unnecessary.

Regarding the climate, she had absolutely zero complaints.

Her footage subsequently become a sensation, amassing hundreds of views and triggering countless responses from watchers, loads of whom are weighing up a Lanzarote getaway this year. Holidaymakers have been raving about Lanzarote, dubbing it the ideal year-round escape destination.

One fan gushed at the time: “Lanzarote is great all year around. My second home.”

Another traveller commented: “I was here for a week. It was roasting, overcast three days, sunny four. Probs it was highest 30.”

Heaping further praise on the destination, a third visitor revealed: “I’m going with my best friend in December to break up the cold. Can’t wait.”

A fourth sun-seeker posted from the island itself at the time, declaring: “Here now and it’s lush. It’s rained a little bit, usually late at night or for less than a minute, but it’s been so hot.”

The appeal of Lanzarote, situated amongst the stunning Canary Islands, comes as no shock given its standing as an excellent winter sunshine retreat.

The destination regularly enjoys a delightful average temperature of 20C during January, seldom falling beneath a mild 16C.

Better still, getaways there won’t break the bank.

For budget-conscious travellers, you can either secure a package holiday or hunt down bargain flights and sort out your own accommodation.

DRIVERS have been urged to make changes to their car’s air con that will save them thousands of pounds.

Experts have warned that not using your motor’s air con this winter could see drivers dealing with costly repairs or even fines of up to £1,000.

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Air conditioning isn’t just for cooling off in those hot summer months.

Many drivers may think switching off their air con in the winter will help save money – but the opposite is true.

It also works as a dehumidifier, preventing mould, odours, and health risks but only if it is used regularly.

If you don’t use it for a period of time it can lead to moisture build up, bacteria thriving and repairs can become costly.

And a misted windscreen can prove more than just a nuisance – it could land you with a £1,000 fine and three points on your license.

Using your air con is the quickest way to clear it and it will also regulate your heating and cooling to keep the motor’s cabin comfortable.

Car maintenance experts at Fixter have shared six expert tips on how to properly use your air con system during the colder months as well as maintenance tips.

Run your AC regularly

Their first tip is to run your air con regularly, even on cooler settings, a small habit that can save you from those costly long-term repairs.

Experts at Fixter recommend to use your air-con for 10 to 15 minutes once a week and occasionally on a colder setting.

This will keep seals lubricated, prevents mould growth and stops the compressor from seizing.

Demist your windscreen

They also advise that you demist your windscreen fast to stay legal and avoid that hefty £1,000 fine.

They say that the quickest and safest way to clear fog or frost is by combining warm air with your air con.

This will reduce humidity while the heat will speed up defogging.

You should direct airflow at the glass and avoid using your recirculation mode.

Don’t skip your winter service

Even if you’re not blasting cold air, your air con is still working hard behind the scenes, experts at Fixter say.

A regular servicing will keep the air con system efficient and will prevent bacteria building up.

It will also reduce the risk of breakdowns when you need it most, they added.

Check your cabin filter and airflow

If your filters are clogged, your air con is going to have to do more work to demist your windscreen.

Fixter says a clogged pollen or cabin filter will restrict airflow, make your demisting slower and get your air con working harder.

And if your vents feel weak, it could also men your refrigerant is low – both are quick fixes if caught early but are expensive if ignored.

Don’t ignore unpleasant smells

If there are some unpleasant smells in your cabin, it may be a sign of a bigger problem.

Musty odours when you turn on your air con are usually caused by mould or bacteria, Fixter says.

This will affect cabin air quality as well as your health and can be fixed with a clean or filter replacement.

Clear your vents before driving

Fixter says that clearing your vents before driving is also crucial.

Snow or ice blocking your cars external vents can stop your air con from circulating air properly, forcing the fan to overwork.

You should always brush them clear before setting off.

More on motors

Whether it’s a weird noise or a check engine light, every driver knows the dreaded feeling of another costly trip to the mechanic.

Thankfully, a new middle aisle buy from Lidl can help to save you money by ensuring one part of your car is always in perfect shape.

What should be in your winter car kit?

By Jacob Jaffa, Motors Reporter

Here’s what should be included in your winter car kit, according to the RAC:

1. Ice scraper
2. Torch
3. Paper maps
4. Phone charger
5. Warm clothes/blankets
6. High-vis clothing
7. Jump cables
8. Jerry can
9. Warning triangles
10. Food and drink
11. A shovel
12. Sunglasses

A major car brand recently recalled another 10,000 motors in the UK over a serious safety flaw.

Another brand recalled five models in UK over a defect that increases risk of crash.

And a huge UK car dealership has announced its sudden closure.

Plus a small parking mistake that could land drivers a hefty fine of up to £1,000.

ITALY has been battered by brutal floods after a wave of torrential rainfall swamped vast parts of the north.

Streets and railways erupted into rivers, trapping people in cars and houses, and hundreds of school children had to be rescued from flood waters.

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North-western Italy swallowed the worst of the weather, with orange alerts issued for parts of Lombardy and Liguria on Sunday, but the capital Milan has also suffered with severe rainfall on Monday night.

In Meda, Lombardy, cars were picked up by the surging water and taken away down the streets.

One clip shows the powerful river depositing a car on top of another – while a railway track can be seen full to the brim with gushing brown water.

The Seveso river which runs through Milan burst its banks and completely submerged several neighbourhoods, and the Lambro is also threatening to overflow in the city.

Specialised flood vehicles had to rescue around 300 children stranded in schools in the Niguarda district of Milan.

In Cabiate, Como province, fire crews plucked residents from swamped neighbourhoods by winching them up to helicopters after the Tarò River overflowed.

They also combed the streets checking submerged vehicles for anyone trapped inside.

Landslides and flooding have brought chaos to the Bormida Valley in Lugaria, and most of the region’s schools have been forced to shut.

Water spurted up through manhole covers along the busy Via Vittorini road – where flood defences have been erected to protect homes.

Milan’s Palace of Justice has been forced to shut down after water pooled inside and the power had to be turned off.

Milan’s Civil Protection Councilor, Marco Granelli, urged all residents to exercise “maximum caution”.

More than 70 emergency calls have been put into the fire service amid the watery mayhem.

The flooding was caused by heavy storms which swept across the north of the country.

A German tourist is currently reported to be missing in Piedmont after flash flooding, with a search operation underway.

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Officials said more than 650 emergency interventions were carried out across Lombardy, with over 200 firefighters mobilized.

A mother and her 10-month-old baby were rescued from the roof of their car in Monza and Brianza province after being trapped by floodwaters.

In Florence, a pine tree collapsed onto a parked van, though no injuries were reported.

Weather forecasters said unstable conditions would continue in the coming days, with thunderstorms forecast for central and northern Italy and temperatures expected to fall.

Heavy rainfall could also extend to southern regions over the weekend.

Italy‘s flood trouble follows similar scenes in Spain.

One child died as torrential floods continue to wreak havoc across a Spanish holiday hotspot.

Horror weather sparked travel chaos with flights cancelled and trains abandoned due to fallen trees on the tracks – as officials warn of more rain to come.

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China plans to evacuate close to 400,00 people from southern Shenzhen province as the typhoon makes landfall in the northern Philippines.

China has begun preparing to evacuate 400,000 people from the city of Shenzhen ahead of Typhoon Ragasa, which has barreled through northern Philippines with a wind speed of 215km/h (134mph).

Super Typhoon Ragasa made landfall on Monday in Calayan province in the Philippines at 3pm (07:00 GMT), Philippine forecasters reported. More than 8,200 people were evacuated to safety in Cagayan, while 1,220 fled to emergency shelters in Apayao province.

Tropical cyclones with sustained winds of 215km/h (134mph) or higher in the western Pacific are labelled “super typhoons”.

The Philippines’ weather agency warned that “there is a high risk of life-threatening storm surge with peak heights exceeding 3 metres (nearly 10 feet) within the next 24 hours over the low-lying or exposed coastal localities” of the northern provinces of Cagayan, Batanes, Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr suspended government work and schools in the capital and 29 provinces in the northern Luzon region.

Ragasa is the 14th weather disturbance to hit the Philippines this year, which comes as the country deals with anti-corruption protests linked to ghost flood-control projects.

The typhoon is forecast to move westwards and remain in the South China Sea until at least Wednesday while passing south of Taiwan and Hong Kong before hitting the Chinese mainland.

Land and sea warnings

Chinese authorities have activated flood control measures in southern provinces and warned of heavy rainfall beginning from Tuesday night.

In China’s Shenzhen, authorities said on Sunday night that they planned to move hundreds of thousands of people from coastal and low-lying areas before the typhoon reaches them.

Other cities in the Guangdong province announced the cancellation of classes, work and public transportation due to the heavy rainfall and strong winds.

Moreover, Taiwan has issued land and sea warnings, cancelled 146 domestic flights, and evacuated more than 900 people from mountainous southern and eastern areas.

Vietnam’s Defence Ministry ordered its forces to monitor the storm and prepare for possible landfall later this week.

With almost 340 days of sunshine a year, Cyprus is one of Europe’s sunniest destinations within a short-haul flight of the UK. However, it doesn’t always shine on the sunny isle

A hotel has begun offering sunshine-guaranteed stays so rained-on guests don’t miss out.

Guests at City of Dreams Mediterranean in Limassol can enjoy a complimentary return stay if they don’t have a sunny holiday this autumn and winter. With almost 340 days of sunshine a year, Cyprus is one of Europe’s sunniest destinations within a short-haul flight of the UK.

“City of Dreams Mediterranean is the only luxury five-star resort ready to put its weather where its mouth is: if the sun doesn’t shine during your stay, you’ll receive a complimentary night on your next visit for every day that doesn’t meet the Sunshine Guarantee definition,” the hotel tempts in a statement about the offer.

“Sunshine” is defined as a day with at least 70% direct sunlight between 9am and 5pm, as measured by AccuWeather.com. A weekly sunshine calendar will be shared online so guests can track it.

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Guests receive a free stay next time they visit, in the form of one complimentary night for every full day that doesn’t meet the Sunshine Guarantee during their current stay. That means if it rains all week, you can come back and get a week’s free accommodation.

The hotel is fourteen storeys and has more than 500 guest rooms and suites, as well as an outdoor amphitheatre, a family adventure park, and a variety of premium dining outlets and luxury retail.

“We want to give our guests complete confidence when booking their trip,” says Grant Johnson, Senior Vice President and Property General Manager. “With the Sunshine Guarantee, they know they’ll enjoy the famous weather here in Cyprus and if not, they’ll be rewarded. Coupled with our new excursion programme, it’s the perfect time to explore everything the island has to offer.”

Cyprus has long been a favourite getaway for British holidaymakers. A unique gem in the Mediterranean, the island lies just south of Turkey and to the southeast of Greece. Its appeal as a travel destination is immediately apparent.

It is also an increasingly popular place for British OAPS to retire to.

With fresh sea air and a wealth of five-star hotels, luxury resorts, and top-tier restaurants, it’s the ideal place to unwind under the sun. Beyond the beaches and upscale amenities, Cyprus also exudes a natural charm and deep cultural richness that adds to its allure for travellers.

Almond blossoms and roadside orange stalls colour the Cypriot countryside, where life moves at a more relaxed, peaceful rhythm. From the charming villages of the Troodos Mountains to the ancient ruins of the Paphos Archaeological Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the famed Tombs of the Kings—the island is a treasure trove for curious explorers. But what makes Cyprus especially attractive for retirees?

First and foremost, the climate is a major advantage. Although air conditioning is essential in the hotter months, the island’s long, sunny seasons mean you can enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle well into the cooler months. Compared to Spain, the cost of living in Cyprus is lower. According to Rest Less, retirees can benefit from a flexible tax system, and real estate remains relatively affordable. Healthcare standards are high, with both public and private medical options available. For those who want to stay active, there are plenty of hiking trails and even a ski resort in the Troodos Mountains.

Cyprus is also known for its safety, a comfort to both travellers and retirees. The island hosts a thriving international community and has two major airports—Larnaca and Paphos—making travel to and from the UK or elsewhere simple and convenient. The local cuisine and warm Cypriot hospitality are also major draws. Think: tender slow-cooked lamb, sweet loukoumades (deep-fried dough balls), and juicy naval oranges—all sure to keep your tastebuds happy.

Popular places to settle include Larnaca, Paphos, and the capital city, Nicosia. Still, with Cyprus’s stunning scenery and cultural depth, deciding where to put down roots might be the toughest decision of all.

The LGPA Tour has cancelled the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship after 18 holes due to bad weather.

Dangerous conditions at the Pinnacle Country Club in Rogers, Arkansas, saw play suspended on Saturday with full cancellation of the event confirmed on Sunday.

“The course received 3.25 [inches] of rain last night and after having assessed the golf course and consulted with our meteorologist and superintendent, the golf course is unplayable,” the LPGA said in a statement.

“Based on the weather forecast for the remainder of today and all day Monday and Tuesday, it is highly unlikely that 36 holes could be completed to make it an official event.

“As a result, the decision has been made to cancel the remainder of the tournament, with only players’ 18-hole score counting.”

The scheduled 54-hole event will be unofficial with no points awarded in the Race to CME globe, the season-long points competition.

A COUNTY Championship match between Somerset and Hampshire was postponed due to a bizarre weather ruling on Monday.

Several games in the competition had been rained off elsewhere in the country, but it was the wind which was eventually deemed unplayable in sunny Taunton.

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Rain had passed through the ground overnight and into the morning and prompted a lunch-time pitch inspection of the field, but soon the rain had blown over to sunny skies.

However, it was reportedly another weather phenomena that put the final nail in the coffin of the day’s cricket action, before a single ball was bowled.

High winds in the area had reportedly made removing the covers a hazardous prospect for groundstaff at County Ground.

There is a precedent for such injuries, with groundsman Matt Page of the Western Australian Cricket Association being struck and concussed by one of his own coverings during an Ashes test in Perth in 2017.

The Times reports that umpires Ben Debenham and David Millns made an inspection of the scene as fans waited for play to finally begin.

But they were waiting in vain, with the game later being abandoned, in line with England and Wales Cricket Board health and safety guidelines.

Those in attendance were initially left in the dark as to the reason for the delay, with the eventual decision being announced after tea

The cricket world was evidently unimpressed by the situation, with several fans of the sport slamming the ECB in reply to The Times’ report.

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One fan said: “And they wonder why the County game is not in rude health? This was simply ridiculous.”

Another fan was just as harsh, saying: “This is a complete disgrace. Why is the ECB not in hot water over this ridiculous rule?

Some fans found the funny side of the ridiculous situation, with a third fan adding: “I’m surprised they allow the ball to land in the crowd…”

And a fourth fan sarcastically chimed in: “How are they allowed to play with that very hard ball?”

Like most of Monday’s postponed matches, the contest eventually got underway on Tuesday, with Somerset choosing to start off with bat in hand.

Middlesex and Lancashire however were subject to a further rain delay as they met at Old Trafford Cricket Ground.