North Dakota faces a major lawsuit threat from Greenpeace over pipeline damages, while safety concerns rise after near-misses involving military aircraft.
Since the start of the week, the UK has experienced dry, sunny weather driven by high pressure, but recent shifts in wind patterns are causing instability. Temperatures are rising, but unsettled conditions with rain and thunderstorms are expected to develop by the weekend, just in time for the bank holiday.
A high school student in California has withdrawn from sports after facing harassment over her stance on transgender participation in girls' sports. The case highlights ongoing debates over gender policies, school responses, and the impact on student athletes amid national scrutiny.
Several US states are considering or implementing measures to phase out homeowner property taxes, citing affordability concerns. Georgia, Florida, and North Dakota are leading efforts, with debates focusing on funding public services and the political implications of tax reform.
A North Dakota court has indicated it will sign an order requiring Greenpeace entities to pay over $340 million to Energy Transfer following a 2016-2017 pipeline protest. The case, involving defamation and related claims, is expected to be appealed. Greenpeace states it cannot afford the damages and plans to challenge the ruling.
A severe storm has caused extensive damage across parts of Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, with tornadoes ripping through communities. No fatalities have been reported, but homes, schools, and infrastructure have sustained significant damage. Emergency services are responding, and surveys are underway to assess the full extent of the destruction. The storm is ongoing, and further severe weather is expected.
Temperatures are rising across multiple regions, driven by ongoing climate patterns. Spain, Brazil, and North America are experiencing above-average heat, with forecasts indicating these trends will continue. A potential super-strength El Niño is contributing to global warming, impacting weather patterns worldwide. This story is current as of Mon, 20 Apr 2026.