Nature. Elements. Ecology - Page 7
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Severe Storms and Heavy Rain to Hit Spain This Weekend
A new trough will bring unstable weather to much of Spain this weekend. Authorities warn of intense storms, hail, and heavy rainfall, especially in the northeast. Weather alerts are active in several regions.
How a Straw-Bale House in Bizkaia Slashed One Family’s Living Costs
In the Karrantza valley, Erika Yurre’s family left city life behind to build a straw-bale house powered by solar panels and surrounded by their own vegetable garden. Their approach has cut expenses and changed their daily routine, showing what’s possible with local materials and careful planning.
Crystal Waters Return to Two Pyrenean Lakes After Invasive Fish Eradicated
After years of murky water and declining biodiversity, two high-mountain lakes in the Pyrenees have regained their clarity. Scientists confirm the complete removal of invasive fish, with amphibians and invertebrates making a comeback and water quality visibly improved.
Madrid Sets 64 Official Viewing Points for Solar Eclipse Amid Fire Risk
Madrid prepares for a rare solar eclipse with 64 official viewing sites. Authorities warn of extreme fire risk and urge use of public transport. Security and emergency services are on high alert across the region.
Man Arrested Over Las Peñas de Riglos Wildfire After Mass Evacuation
A 28-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the wildfire in Las Peñas de Riglos. The fire led to the evacuation of 100 people from a nearby campsite and forced road closures. Authorities continue to battle the blaze.
Spain’s Wildfire Prevention Fails as Resources Focus on Firefighting
Despite record spending, Spain’s wildfire strategy prioritizes containment over true prevention. Most fires are still caused by human activity. Experts warn that current policies leave forests vulnerable and fail to address root causes.
Unusual Earthquake in Colombia Raises Fears of Further Shocks
A rare and powerful earthquake in Colombia has left nearly 240 dead. Experts warn of possible aftershocks and highlight the unusual nature of the event. The risk of further seismic activity remains high.
Total Solar Eclipse Brings Rare Silence and Awe to Galicia
A total solar eclipse plunged the Galician coast into darkness. Residents and visitors experienced an intense, collective silence. The event left many searching for words and wanting to witness it again.
EU Bans PFAS Chemicals in Food Packaging from August 12
From August 12, the EU enforces strict limits on PFAS in food packaging, marking a major shift for manufacturers and importers. The regulation also sets the stage for unified recycling standards and clearer labeling across Europe by 2030.
Barcelona Airport Hits New Passenger Record in July
Barcelona-El Prat Airport surpassed 5.8 million passengers in July. Growth outpaces the national average, with international routes leading. The airport is set to exceed its annual capacity limit again.
Wildfires in Spain Burn Over 226,000 Hectares, Surpassing 2025 Figures
Spain has already lost 226,391 hectares to wildfires in 2026. This is 38% more than last year by the same date. Authorities warn of a challenging season as heat records and early fire outbreaks strain emergency response.
Small-Scale Farming Is Quietly Reshaping the Amazon’s Biodiversity
Recent research shows that small-scale agriculture in the Amazon can mask a dramatic loss of biodiversity when viewed across entire landscapes. While individual plots may appear rich in species, the overall region becomes more uniform, threatening unique habitats and wildlife.
No, 500 Tortoises Did Not Turn the Sahara Green
Reports of 500 African spurred tortoises transforming the edge of the Sahara into a green zone are not supported by scientific evidence. Conservation data shows only dozens of tortoises released, with no verified satellite images of new vegetation.
Spain Prepares for First Total Solar Eclipse in Over a Century
Millions in Spain are set to witness a total solar eclipse, the first in 121 years. Authorities brace for record travel, safety risks, and economic impact as the phenomenon crosses the peninsula.
Meteorologists Warn: Check Western Skies Before Eclipse in Spain
Meteorologists urge eclipse watchers to monitor cloud cover west of their location. Local forecasts may mislead, risking missed views. Storms and high temperatures add to the challenge in several regions.
Alcoy Faces Widespread Damage After Violent Storm Hits City
A severe storm struck Alcoy, toppling trees and damaging buildings. Winds reached 132 km/h, causing major disruption. Emergency services responded to dozens of incidents. No injuries reported.
Record Winds and Torrential Rains Hit Alcoi and Villena
A powerful storm front swept through southern Valencia, bringing winds up to 176 km/h and intense downpours. Alcoi and Villena saw record gusts, hail, and flooding. Emergency crews handled over 160 incidents in Alicante province.
Perseids 2026: Meteor Shower and Total Solar Eclipse Align Over Spain
Spain will witness the Perseids meteor shower at its peak under a moonless sky. The event coincides with a total solar eclipse on August 12. Experts expect ideal viewing conditions for both phenomena.
Coffee Capsules to Be Legally Classified as Packaging from August
From August, single-use coffee capsules in Spain will be officially treated as packaging under new EU rules. The change brings new obligations for manufacturers and importers, but does not require cafés or restaurants to charge extra per capsule. Here’s what the new classification means for businesses and consumers.
Is It Legal to Carry a Fire Extinguisher in Your Car in Spain?
After a series of car-related wildfires in Spain, many drivers are questioning whether carrying a fire extinguisher in their vehicle is legal or even required. The answer is more nuanced than most expect.
Residents Return Home After Segovia Wildfires as Risk Level Drops
Authorities in Segovia have allowed nearly 180 evacuated residents to return home. The wildfire risk has been downgraded and the SG-722 road is open again. Emergency measures are being lifted after days of disruption.
Cloud Cover Forecast for Eclipse: Where Skies Will Be Clear in Spain
On August 12, cloud cover could block eclipse views in many Spanish towns. Updated forecasts show where skies will be clear or cloudy. The latest data highlights key risks for observers.
Why Weevils Invade Spanish Pantries Every Summer
Small beetles like weevils can hide for weeks inside rice and cereals, contaminating food without being noticed. Rising summer temperatures in Spain create ideal conditions for these pests to thrive. Here’s how to spot, eliminate, and prevent infestations before they spread.
How a Japanese Village Shields Its Historic Homes With 62 Water Cannons
In Kayabuki no Sato, a village in Kyoto Prefecture, residents protect centuries-old thatched houses with a unique network of 62 water cannons. Twice a year, the entire system is tested in a dramatic display that draws visitors and keeps the community prepared for fire risks.
Madrid Urges Access Limits to Guadarrama and Manzanares During Eclipse
Madrid authorities call for strict access controls in key natural parks during the August 12 eclipse. Over 1,700 police and civil guard officers will be deployed. The move aims to prevent wildfires and manage half a million expected trips.
Severe Storm Alerts Issued Across Spain as Hail and Heavy Rain Threaten
Spain faces a new wave of severe storms with hail and strong winds. Orange and yellow alerts are active in multiple regions. Authorities warn of possible flooding and dangerous conditions.
Galicia Restricts Access to 29 Sites for Total Solar Eclipse
Galicia will be the first region in Spain to witness the total solar eclipse. Authorities have banned access to 29 popular viewing spots for safety. The event will affect 143 municipalities and attract significant attention.
Niebla Wildfire Forces Mass Evacuations as Over 20,000 Hectares Affected
The wildfire in Niebla remains uncontrolled, with more than 20,000 hectares within its perimeter. Over 500 residents have been evacuated as emergency teams struggle to contain the flames.
Orange Weather Alerts for Severe Storms and Hail in Valencia
Aemet has issued orange alerts for storms and hail in parts of Valencia. Up to 40 litres of rain per square metre could fall in one hour. Authorities urge caution and warn of strong winds and flooding risks.
Clouds Threaten Eclipse Viewing in Northern Spain and Canary Islands
Spain faces cloud cover in key regions just before the solar eclipse. Meteorologists warn of high temperatures, isolated storms and extreme wildfire risk. Visibility may be limited in the north and Canary Islands.
A Japanese City Where Koi Swim Freely Through the Streets
In Shimabara, Nagasaki, koi carp glide through a 100-meter canal that runs alongside homes and shops. What began as a local initiative in 1978 has become a symbol of community and environmental care, attracting nearly 94,000 visitors in a single year.
AEMET Forecasts Clear Skies for Solar Eclipse in Most of Spain
Spain is set for a rare solar eclipse on August 12, with AEMET predicting mostly clear skies across the country. While much of the peninsula will enjoy ideal viewing conditions, low clouds may obscure the event in the north. Extreme heat and wildfire risk add further challenges.
Spain Faces Extreme Heatwave With Temperatures Up to 43°C This Week
A powerful heatwave will push temperatures in Spain to 43°C. Nights will remain unusually hot, with tropical and torrid conditions in many cities. Saharan dust will worsen air quality across the country.
Andalusia Declares New Mining Reserves Amid Political and Environmental Tensions
The Spanish government has designated four new mining reserves in Córdoba and Jaén. The move aims to boost Andalusia’s mining sector but faces strong opposition from environmental groups and local politicians.
Catalonia Braces for Historic Eclipse as 50,000 Visitors Expected
Catalonia finalizes preparations for a rare total eclipse, expecting a surge of 50,000 visitors. Authorities coordinate security, health, and transport to manage the influx. Local events and strict safety measures are in place.
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