Winter

Forecasters are warning that a large 'hybrid storm' — combining characteristics of a winter storm and other weather systems — is expected to develop over the United States. The system could bring a mix of heavy snow, rain and strong winds across affected regions. Details on its exact track and timing remain limited, but the unusual combined nature of the storm is drawing attention as it could disrupt travel and daily life in the days ahead.

Scientists and US media are raising alarms about a slow-moving, planetary-scale Kelvin wave in the Pacific making its way toward the California coast. The ocean phenomenon could raise sea levels by up to a foot as El Niño conditions keep warm water trapped along the coastline. Observers warn the combined effect could worsen coastal erosion and flooding risks for communities already exposed to rising seas and winter storms.

German coach Danny Seidenglanz will take over from Remy De Wit as technical director of the Dutch speed skating federation KNSB. The appointment puts a foreigner in a leading role within the Netherlands' most successful winter sport, and is likely to spark debate among Dutch skating fans about the choice and the direction of the sport.

ITV has announced the full cast list for Winter, a new crime drama series starring Richard Armitage. The reveal, covered by regional outlets including the EDP, confirms the supporting actors joining the former The Stranger and Hannibal star in the series. Casting announcements for British crime dramas routinely draw wide attention, and Armitage's involvement is the main draw for viewers anticipating the show's release.

A market indicator is flashing a warning ahead of the historically strong November-to-April stretch, when the stock market typically delivers its best gains of the year. The signal suggests the usual seasonal rally could fail to materialise this time, prompting investors to question whether to position for the usual winter boom or brace for weakness instead.

Meteorologists say the first snow is expected in the Moscow region, naming the dates when snow cover is likely to form. Local outlets are reporting on the timing, and residents are discussing whether the region is in for a proper winter start or just a brief dusting.

Anti-pollution traffic restrictions are set to return from October, according to a report from Verona. The measures, typically involving bans on the most polluting vehicles during high-smog periods, affect circulation in the city as winter approaches. Local coverage is drawing attention to how commuters and drivers will be impacted by the seasonal restrictions.

Austrian ski jumping star Stefan Kraft is switching to skis from Marcel Hirscher's brand, Eurosport reports. The move links the ski jumping world champion with the equipment company founded by the former alpine skiing great, and it is drawing attention in the German-speaking winter sports world ahead of the season.

Attention on El Niño is rising as meteorologists explain a 'planetary-scale Kelvin wave' — a massive pulse of warm water moving eastward along the equatorial Pacific. The Weather Network reports the phenomenon is strengthening the El Niño pattern and is fueling concern in California, where it can drive heavy winter storms and flooding, while also altering weather patterns worldwide.

Police in Istanbul have deployed a helicopter to support a 'huzur' (peace) security operation carried out across the city to maintain public order. Turkish media are also closely following weather news, with the state meteorology service issuing reports on conditions in Istanbul and warnings of a possible super El Nino bringing heavy rain this autumn and winter.

For decades, traders bought cheap natural gas in summer, stored it, and sold it at a premium in winter to keep Europe supplied through the cold months. That long-standing business model is now breaking down, according to a report in The Japan Times, raising questions about how the continent will manage seasonal fuel supplies and whether adequate winter storage can still be guaranteed.

Ukrainian forces and officials are gearing up for an expected Russian offensive over the winter months. The assessment comes amid ongoing fighting along the front lines, with analysts warning that colder weather and degraded infrastructure could shape the next phase of the war. Observers are watching whether Russia can mount a large-scale assault or sustain pressure through the season.

The city of Winter Garden has suspended its reclaimed water service, according to a local news report from Orange Observer. No details were given on the reason for the suspension or how long it will last. Residents who rely on reclaimed water for irrigation and outdoor use are likely to be affected until service resumes.

People in Glasgow and across Scotland are checking the weather as colder conditions prompt debate over when to bring out winter duvets. A forecaster quoted by the Daily Record told Scots not to 'jump the gun', suggesting milder spells may still interrupt the seasonal changeover.

Sarracenia oreophila, the green pitcher plant, produces its main pitchers in spring rather than late summer like the related Sarracenia leucophylla. Those spring pitchers are now dying back as the plant prepares for winter dormancy, while smaller non-trap leaves called phyllodia remain at the base. The seasonal cycle of this carnivorous plant is drawing interest from plant enthusiasts.

The World Health Organization is holding a Health Emergencies EPI-WIN webinar on preparing for respiratory virus circulation in the northern hemisphere winter season. The session, the first in a series, covers the current epidemiological situation and efforts to strengthen surveillance and vigilance ahead of the winter months, as health authorities brace for seasonal increases in influenza, COVID-19 and other respiratory infections.

An Oklahoma judge has found that a gas company illegally increased customers' bills during the February 2021 winter storm that battered the state. The ruling addresses charges Oklahomans faced during the severe cold snap that strained energy supplies. Details of the company involved and any penalties or restitution have not been detailed in the available coverage.

Russia is deploying fast attack drones as part of a new winter strategy against Ukraine, according to analysis by Boekestijn and De Wijk on BNR. The tactic is straining Ukrainian air defences, which must intercept large numbers of incoming drones. Observers are watching how Ukraine will adapt its defences as attacks intensify during the cold months.