Southwestern Europe’s largest gateway, home to Spain and Portugal
Three new osprey chicks have been ringed at Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve, Cumbria, with a long-standing pair producing three healthy youngsters. The release notes that the Birds’ life history is tracked to understand habitat needs amid ongoing conservation pressures.
The UK has faced a fourth heatwave with amber and yellow alerts across large swaths of England and parts of Wales. Temperatures peak midweek, with rainfall scarce and drought status declared in parts of Wales; authorities warn of health impacts and increasing wildfire risk. A cooler, wetter change is forecast to arrive later in the week.
A total solar eclipse has swept from the Arctic through Greenland and Iceland to parts of Spain and a sliver of Portugal, while much of western Europe has seen a deep partial eclipse. Crowds and tourists have flocked to the path of totality, scientific teams have livestreamed observations, and Spain has reported heavy visitor numbers and local economic benefits.
Moroccan forces have detained scores of people near Fnideq after social media calls encouraged a repeat mass crossing toward the Spanish exclave of Ceuta. Security services have used tear gas and set up checkpoints; Spain has kept extra police, soldiers and a maritime barrier in place while several news agencies were ordered to leave the Moroccan border town.
European observers prepare for a historic solar eclipse as sources recount how ancient Rome linked celestial events with religion and power. Modern accounts trace eclipses from Babylonian predictions to Einstein’s testing ground, while scientists today study the Sun as a natural laboratory.
Heatwaves are intensifying across Europe, with several countries recording near-record highs. Hospitals report strain as temperatures surpass 30C in many areas, while drought and wildfires push governments to implement urgent measures. The unusual heat, tied to persistent high-pressure systems, is prompting warnings and adaptation efforts.
Toñi, the Iberian orca known as la abuela, has sustained multiple dorsal fin injuries. Officials say pellets are suspected, though investigators have not ruled out other causes. Conservation groups warn that lodged projectiles raise infection risks while authorities coordinate across Spain and Portugal as the pod navigates busy shipping lanes.
Weather services warn of a European heat dome as high pressure pushes heat from North Africa toward France, Spain, Italy and the Balkans. The UK expects a brief, warm weekend before cooler conditions return; governing forecasts indicate changeable conditions next week.