A state in the southern central part of Australia, the fourth-largest by area.
Experts warn that rising ocean temperatures are increasing shark sightings along Southern California beaches. Recent encounters include sharks circling near surfers and drone sightings, but attacks remain rare. Warming waters and potential El Niño conditions are likely to make this summer more active for sharks, prompting increased vigilance.
Record‑level and near‑record May temperatures have been reported across multiple regions this week — parts of England and Russia have hit unusually high temps while the eastern US has recorded low‑90s — even as eastern Australia is facing a major rain band. Forecasts show brief, intense heat will give way to fronts or rain in most places; Australia is also seeing El Niño odds rise for winter.
The diphtheria outbreak in Australia has reached multiple states and territories, with the Northern Territory reporting hundreds of cases and at least one death. Health authorities warn vaccination rates are driving transmission, while Indigenous communities are disproportionately affected. Officials say cases are now decreasing after peaking earlier in 2026.
Australia has recorded H5N1 avian influenza in migratory seabirds on the mainland and in sub‑Antarctic territories. Authorities have confirmed cases in Western Australia and South Australia and are testing further suspected detections in New South Wales. Surveillance, farm biosecurity and public reporting have increased while officials say there is no evidence the virus has reached poultry or caused mass mortalities on the mainland.