Earth saw the hottest week ever at the beginning of July, while June was the hottest on record. According to the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), drastic weather patterns are evolving due to climate change and the setting of El Nino in the Pacific Ocean. The UN body said there is a 90 per cent probability of the El Nino event continuing during the second half of 2023, and it is expected to be at least of moderate strength.

The US and Europe are seeing a significant heatwave, even as most of South Asia is reeling under floods. Media reports showed Italy, Spain and Greece have been experiencing high temperatures for several days. As many as 16 cities including Rome, Bologna, and Florence have been issued a red alert by the Italian Health Ministry for the weekend.