PNG signs Pukpuk treaty with Australia; regional security ties in focus. Brief bio: Independent State in Melanesia, eastern half of New Guinea.
Experts are monitoring a high likelihood of a strong El Niño developing this summer, which could lead to record global temperatures in 2027. The phenomenon may cause extreme weather events worldwide, including droughts and heavy rainfall, with a 62% chance of a super El Niño persisting into the end of the year.
Super Typhoon Sinlaku has been impacting the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam, with sustained winds reaching 150-175 mph. The storm is causing widespread damage, flooding, and power outages. Authorities are warning residents to shelter in place as the storm continues to move slowly, with conditions expected to worsen overnight.
A magnitude 7.8 earthquake has struck off Mindanao early Monday, killing at least 35 people, injuring hundreds and damaging thousands of buildings. General Santos city has been placed under a state of calamity, rescue teams are searching collapsed sites and tsunami warnings were issued across the region before being largely lifted.