Microsoft has warned travellers and organisations about a Russian state-linked cyberespionage campaign that manipulates hotel and venue Wi-Fi networks to steal credentials, compromise cloud accounts and install surveillance malware. The operation, named CaptiveCrunch, has been active since early May and is attributed to Storm-2945, an operational subgroup of Midnight Blizzard. The wider hacking organisation, also known as APT29 and Cozy Bear, has been linked by the United […]
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 August 2026 – Thai Cement Manufacturers Association (TCMA) is advancing Thailand–Canada collaboration by piloting carbon capture technology in the Thai cement industry. The initiative designates the “Saraburi Sandbox” as a low-carbon technology testbed, bringing together industry, government, academia, and global partners to support the transition to a low-carbon economy, while enhancing the long-term competitiveness of Thailand’s industrial sector.
From Thailand–Canada Collaboration to Industrial-Scale Deployment
TCMA announced progress in its strategic Thailand–Canada partnership under the project “Decarbonization of the Cement and Concrete Sectors in Thailand.” As part of the initiative, a Mobile Carbon Capture Unit (MCCU) has been deployed in Thailand for the first time to test the technology’s performance in real industrial conditions within the cement sector.
The deployment of the MCCU marks a significant step in strengthening technological readiness for carbon capture—one of the key solutions for high-emission industries such as cement—while supporting the Thailand 2050 Net Zero Cement and Concrete Roadmap.
Dr. Chana Poomee, Honourary Chairman of TCMA and President of the ASEAN Federation of Cement Manufacturers (AFCM), stated that the project reflects Thailand’s strong commitment to driving industry toward Net Zero through international collaboration. TCMA serves as a central platform linking industry, government, academia, and global organizations to develop practical carbon reduction solutions.
“The transition to Net Zero for hard-to-abate sectors such as cement cannot be achieved in isolation. It requires policy support from the government, as well as international collaboration in technology, finance, and knowledge transfer to accelerate real-world implementation,” Dr. Chana said.
Connecting Technology and Investment Through Global Collaboration
The project is funded by the Government of Canada through Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) serving as the implementing agency. The initiative aims to develop a technology and innovation ecosystem for decarbonizing Thailand’s cement and concrete industries.
Ms. Richelle Bourgouin, Deputy Minister of Trade and Export Development, Saskatchewan, Canada, noted that the collaboration highlights the power of integrating knowledge, technology, and innovation to support the transition toward a low-carbon economy.
“This partnership also opens opportunities to connect expertise in clean technology, research, and innovation between the two countries, enabling the development of practical solutions and fostering future trade and investment cooperation in Thailand and across ASEAN,” Ms. Richelle said.
A key outcome of the project is the deployment of the MCCU, developed by the Clean Energy Technologies Research Institute (CETRI) at the University of Regina, Canada. The unit will be tested in Thailand to evaluate its performance and applicability within the Thai cement industry.
“Saraburi Sandbox”: A PPP Model for Accelerating Low-Carbon Industry
Under the project, TCMA is collaborating with Chulalongkorn University to study and transfer knowledge on carbon capture technology while building human capacity. The MCCU will be rotated across cement plants operated by TCMA member companies in Saraburi province to test performance, collect technical data, and assess future investment pathways.
The “Saraburi Sandbox” serves as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) platform, bringing together government, industry, academia, and international partners to pilot and scale carbon reduction technologies, while establishing investment models for a low-carbon economy.
The area is being developed as a prototype low-carbon city, integrating technology, infrastructure, standards, and investment frameworks to support Thailand’s long-term industrial transition.
Accelerating Readiness for a Low-Carbon Future
Dr. Chana emphasized that deploying the MCCU in Thailand represents an important step in enhancing technological and knowledge readiness, particularly in carbon capture technologies that are essential for industries facing significant decarbonization challenges.
Preparation must begin today, as the transition to Net Zero requires time for technological development, workforce readiness, and infrastructure buildout, alongside appropriate support mechanisms. This is especially important as global carbon measures—such as carbon pricing and emissions trading systems (ETS)—become increasingly stringent.
“The success of decarbonizing the cement industry depends on collaboration across all sectors to create an enabling ecosystem for investment and to accelerate the adoption of technologies at scale,” Dr. Chana said.
TCMA’s efforts not only reflect the Thai cement industry’s commitment to translating decarbonization plans into action, but also reinforce the importance of Thailand–Canada collaboration in advancing clean technologies and innovation in the industrial sector. This includes knowledge transfer, technology development, and expanding future investment partnerships.
This collaboration represents a key mechanism in laying the foundation for Thailand’s cement industry to remain competitive in a low-carbon economy, while accelerating progress toward Net Zero 2050 and strengthening Thailand’s role as a regional model for low-carbon industrial development in ASEAN.
Amazon’s market value crossed $3 trillion for the first time on Monday as accelerating cloud revenue and artificial intelligence demand pushed its shares to a record high. The stock gained about 5% to trade near $285 in New York, valuing the ecommerce and cloud-computing group at roughly $3.08 trillion. The advance extended Amazon’s gain for 2026 to more than 23% and placed it among a small group […]
A newly identified malware operation has used a counterfeit Python component to bypass security scrutiny, disable parts of Microsoft Defender and establish persistent remote access inside a law firm’s network. The intrusion compromised two endpoints after employees received spear-phishing emails directing them to an encrypted archive hosted on the Mega file-sharing service. The archive contained a malicious Windows shortcut named “Case Documents”, designed to resemble material connected […]
By Nantoo Banerjee The U.S. President Donald Trump seems to be desperately looking for a graceful exit fast at least to save the U.S. partnership with the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and also the massive financial cost of war. The financial cost of the Iran war already reached approximately $37.5 billion in direct Pentagon […]
Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche has formally cancelled a $1.776 billion “anti-weaponisation” fund after two Republican senators threatened to block his confirmation, removing a major obstacle before a decisive Senate Judiciary Committee vote on Tuesday. The Justice Department order terminated the fund before it became operational. No commissioners had been appointed, no claims had been processed and no money had been transferred. Blanche also clarified that […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai The average cost of a data breach in the Middle East has climbed to $8 million as cybercriminals increasingly use artificial intelligence to launch faster and more scalable attacks. More than a quarter of malicious breaches examined across the region involved AI-enabled methods. Another 11 per cent of affected organisations could not determine whether attackers had used the technology, highlighting the growing difficulty […]
Wildfires sweeping through eastern Washington have destroyed about 600 homes, businesses and other buildings, forcing roughly 60,000 people to evacuate as firefighters struggle to contain several fast-moving blazes around Spokane. About 5,000 homes were covered by evacuation orders by Sunday, while thousands of residents remained displaced and large sections of the region were without electricity. No deaths, serious injuries or missing people had been reported, although authorities […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai US President Donald Trump has suspended a planned military attack on Iran after Tehran and several Middle Eastern governments indicated that negotiations could produce a swift agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump said the operation had been cancelled on the condition that the parties rapidly finalise a deal addressing maritime access and Iran’s nuclear programme. He warned that US forces remained […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Oil prices jumped more than 7 per cent after Iran fired missiles towards US forces and Saudi Arabia joined American strikes against Iran-aligned militias in Iraq, reviving fears of a broader conflict disrupting Middle Eastern energy supplies. Brent crude rose 7.92 per cent to $90.75 a barrel during Wednesday’s trading, while West Texas Intermediate gained 6.94 per cent to $84.76. The advance reversed […]
Russia has prohibited cryptocurrency mining across Moscow, the surrounding Moscow Region and parts of the Kursk Region until the end of 2032, widening restrictions designed to protect electricity networks from power-intensive digital currency operations. The measure will take effect on August 15, 2026, and remain in force until December 31, 2032. It covers both the mining of digital currencies and participation in cryptocurrency mining pools, closing a […]
Scientists have developed a specialised computing chip capable of completing complex neural-dynamics calculations within milliseconds, opening a potential route towards faster brain modelling, medical imaging and real-time artificial intelligence systems. The processor, created by a research team led by Peking University in collaboration with the Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, uses phase-change memristors to perform calculations at speeds comparable […]
The government has approved 543 Data and Artificial Intelligence Labs in industrial training institutes and polytechnics, alongside 58 AI Centres of Excellence, as it seeks to expand advanced technology skills and research capacity beyond the country’s largest urban centres.
The laboratories will be established across Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities under the IndiaAI FutureSkills programme. They are intended to provide practical training in artificial intelligence, data annotation, data curation and applied data science, giving students in technical institutions access to infrastructure and courses aligned with emerging employment needs.
The 58 Centres of Excellence will be developed across states and Union Territories through partnerships involving state administrations, academic institutions and industry. Their mandate is expected to include research, product development, startup support, workforce training and the application of AI to local economic and public-service challenges.
The expansion forms part of the ₹10,372 crore IndiaAI Mission approved in March 2024. The programme is structured around seven areas covering computing capacity, indigenous foundation models, application development, skills, datasets, startup financing and safe deployment of artificial intelligence.
Twenty-seven Data and AI Labs have already been established with the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology in Tier-2 and Tier-3 locations. The additional 543 facilities will take the planned national network to 570 laboratories, extending the initiative through ITIs and polytechnics in all states and Union Territories.
Courses are being designed to offer both foundational instruction and sector-focused training. Planned subjects include data cleaning, Python-based annotation and curation, data science, generative AI awareness and the responsible use of automated tools. The laboratories are also expected to provide hands-on access to computing systems rather than relying solely on classroom theory.
The programme addresses a persistent concentration of technology education, research institutions and high-value digital employment in major cities. Students in smaller industrial and educational centres often face limited access to specialised trainers, computing infrastructure and industry networks, even as companies seek workers capable of handling data-intensive operations and AI-supported processes.
Industrial training institutes and polytechnics have been chosen because of their role in preparing students for technical occupations. Integrating AI modules into these institutions could connect traditional vocational education with changing requirements in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, agriculture, retail, financial services and public administration.
The government is also developing standardised curricula for different levels of technical ability. The YUVA AI for All programme supports introductory literacy, while the Skilling for AI Readiness framework offers nationally aligned learning pathways for school students, educators, technical trainees and workers without formal computing backgrounds.
More than 120 AI-related courses are available through the Skill India Digital Hub, including 11 focused specifically on generative artificial intelligence. A 15-hour course titled AI to be Aware introduces learners to generative tools, practical applications, limitations and responsible usage under the National Skills Qualification Framework.
The laboratory rollout is being accompanied by a wider effort to strengthen research and deployment. The IndiaAI Mission has identified 762 potential AI use cases across 62 ministries, covering areas such as healthcare, agriculture, climate management, cybersecurity, financial regulation and government service delivery.
Eleven national hackathons and innovation challenges have been launched to move selected ideas from initial development towards pilot projects and wider implementation. The government has also approved applications for AI solutions designed around domestic languages, datasets and operational conditions.
The common computing programme has onboarded more than 38,000 graphics processing units, which are being offered to startups, researchers and academic institutions at subsidised rates. Access to such computing power is essential for training and testing large models, but costs remain a barrier for smaller companies and institutions.
Twelve organisations and consortia have been selected to develop large and small language models using domestic datasets. Participants include startups, technology companies and academic groups working on multilingual, multimodal and sector-specific systems. The resulting models are expected to support government applications and become available to the broader research and startup ecosystem.
Talent development under the mission includes support for more than 8,000 undergraduate students, 5,000 postgraduate students and 500 doctoral researchers. The laboratory network is designed to widen the entry point further by reaching students enrolled in vocational and diploma-level programmes.
Implementation will depend on the availability of qualified instructors, reliable connectivity, maintained hardware and sustained coordination between institutions and industry. Training outcomes will also need to be measured against employment, certification and practical competence rather than the number of laboratories formally approved.
The European Union has invited bids to build as many as seven artificial intelligence gigafactories, launching a public-private investment drive worth more than €30 billion to expand Europe’s computing capacity and reduce its dependence on foreign technology providers. The facilities will combine more than 100,000 advanced AI processors with specialised software, secure cloud systems, high-speed networks, large-scale storage and energy-efficient data centres. They are designed to support […]
Torrential rain battered Kerala on Saturday, killing at least four people in landslides and flooding homes, roads and commercial centres as authorities placed nine districts under the highest weather warning.
The most severe damage was reported from Idukki, Kottayam and Pathanamthitta, where saturated hillsides collapsed, rivers crossed warning levels and rescue teams moved families from vulnerable areas. The state government directed district administrations to prepare for emergencies and assigned ministers to coordinate relief operations in badly affected areas.
Sumathi, a resident of Kudayathoor near Thodupuzha, was killed when a landslide struck her house at Adurmala around 2 am. Her husband Ravi and son Ratheesh were pulled from the debris with injuries. The building was destroyed, and rescuers recovered Sumathi’s body after a search lasting several hours.
Another landslide at Kolahalamedu in Vagamon killed 72-year-old Prabhakaran Nair. A mass of earth crashed through a window and buried the room where he was sleeping. Fire and Rescue Services personnel, police and residents used an earthmover to clear the wreckage before recovering his body.
Joseph Johnny and his mother Regina Johnny were also killed after a landslide buried a house near Poonjar in Kottayam district. Search and rescue teams were deployed to the area as heavy rain continued to restrict access through hilly roads.
The weather department issued red warnings for Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod, where isolated rainfall exceeding 20 centimetres within 24 hours was considered possible. Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki were also placed under red warnings for rainfall ranging between 12 and 20 centimetres.
Orange warnings covering Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam and Palakkad indicated the likelihood of very heavy rainfall. The warnings covered nearly the entire state and reflected the possibility of flash floods, landslides, uprooted trees, power disruption and damage to weak structures.
An offshore trough extending from south Gujarat to Kerala, combined with strong lower-level westerly winds, intensified the rainfall. Rain or thundershowers were forecast across most parts of Kerala through the weekend, although the heaviest phase was expected on Saturday.
Flooding spread across central districts as rivers and streams overflowed. Erattupetta was inundated after the Meenachil River breached its banks, while the Mundakkayam causeway went under water. Sections of the Pala-Poonjar road became impassable, affecting movement between several towns and villages.
Ranni in Pathanamthitta faced extensive flooding, with water entering the Ittiyappara bus stand, shops and houses. Landslides were reported from surrounding highland areas, while the Pamba and other rivers rose rapidly following overnight rainfall.
Thodupuzha town and nearby settlements experienced waterlogging after streams spilled into residential colonies. The Thodupuzha River crossed the danger mark, while the Muvattupuzha River moved above its warning level. Residents along riverbanks and in low-lying areas were told to prepare for evacuation.
Authorities increased controlled releases from the Malankara Dam as inflows surged. Four shutters that had been opened by 1.5 metres were scheduled to be raised in stages to 2.5 metres. Officials warned that the release could further increase levels in the Thodupuzha and Muvattupuzha rivers.
Road travel was disrupted across Idukki after landslips blocked the Moolamattom-Vagamon, Vagamon-Ettumanoor, Vagamon-Upputhara and Kattappana-Vazhavara routes. Debris also halted traffic near Machiplavu on the Kochi-Dhanushkodi National Highway, where a car and a heavy vehicle were caught in a landslide.
Google has withdrawn an experimental image-generation feature from Google Earth after users demonstrated how easily it could fabricate convincing scenes of wars, disasters and sensitive security installations. The tool allowed people to select a location in the web version of Google Earth and transform its satellite, aerial or three-dimensional imagery through written prompts. Within seconds, ordinary neighbourhoods could appear bombed, flooded or occupied by military forces, creating […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai UAE sovereign wealth funds and private companies are preparing to expand investments in India, targeting artificial intelligence, logistics, food security and infrastructure as the two countries deepen their economic partnership. Several significant announcements are expected over the coming months, UAE Ministry of Investment Undersecretary Mohammad Abdulrahman Alhawi said, highlighting sustained interest among government-backed funds and businesses in opportunities across the country. “Our sovereign […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai The Supreme Court has granted Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Payal Abdullah a divorce after the estranged couple resolved their long-running matrimonial dispute through mediation. A Bench of Justices P S Narasimha and Alok Aradhe disposed of Abdullah’s appeal on Friday after being told that the parties had reached an amicable settlement and wanted their marriage formally dissolved. Senior advocate […]
JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 August 2026 – Global high-performance charging brand CUKTECH has officially introduced the CUKTECH 6 Ultra Charger to the Indonesian market. Powered by advanced GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology, the new charger combines up to 100W MAX output, a compact design, and comprehensive safety protection to deliver a faster, smarter, and more reliable charging experience for work, study, and travel.
Compact Design with Powerful Multi-Device Charging
As smartphones, tablets, laptops, and portable gaming devices become everyday essentials, users increasingly seek a single charger capable of powering them all. The CUKTECH 6 Ultra Charger delivers up to 100W MAX fast charging, making it ideal for smartphones, tablets, lightweight laptops, and Nintendo Switch.
Featuring two USB-C ports and one USB-A port, the charger supports simultaneous charging for multiple devices. Its compact form factor is significantly smaller than a traditional 67W charger, while the included 1-meter 6A 240W braided cable offers added convenience and durability.
Equipped with Dynamic Power Distribution and ADC 2.0 fast-charging technology, the charger provides seamless compatibility across both Android and Apple ecosystems
It can charge a Xiaomi 17 Pro to approximately 71% in 30 minutes (100W Max), a Samsung S26 Ultra to around 78% (60W Max), and a MacBook Air (M3) to approximately 53% in 30 minutes (65W Max).
Smart Desk Companion with an Interactive AI Display
The CUKTECH 6 Ultra Charger features a unique 0.96-inch HD smart display with built-in interactive emoji animations. The display changes expressions based on charging status—from standby to charging and nearly full—bringing a fun and engaging element to everyday charging. It also supports 180° screen rotation and provides real-time information, including power, voltage, and current.
Advanced Protection with OPC 2.0
Designed for demanding environments, the charger incorporates CUKTECH’s proprietary OPC 2.0 charging optimization technology, which intelligently recognizes connected devices and adjusts charging current to help extend battery lifespan. Combined with an advanced GaN architecture and 24-hour intelligent temperature control, it delivers stable, efficient performance even under heavy workloads.
As one of CUKTECH’s latest global products, the CUKTECH 6 Ultra Charger combines high-performance charging, portability, and intelligent features to provide Indonesian consumers with a more efficient digital lifestyle.
*All data from CUKTECH internal lab tests. Actual results may vary with device software or ambient temperature.
Hashtag: #CUKTECH
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 July 2026 –VinFast has officially launched its electric motorcycle ecosystem in the Philippines, opening 21 VinFast showrooms alongside the debut of three models, Evo, Feliz II, and Viper. The milestone marks an important step in VinFast’s expansion in one of Southeast Asia’s largest two-wheeler markets, bringing modern, cost-effective, and sustainable mobility solutions closer to consumers while laying the foundation for a comprehensive green mobility ecosystem in the Philippines.
Vinfast Opens 21 Electric Motorcycle Showrooms, Deepening Its Green Mobility Presence In The Philippines.
The 21 pioneer dealerships will begin operations in major cities nationwide, expanding consumer access to VinFast products and authorized services. The network is expected to grow further in the coming period, progressively expanding VinFast’s presence across the Philippines.
The simultaneous opening of 21 showrooms comes just over a month after the success of VinFast’s early booking program, which attracted thousands of customers nationwide. The strong market response to VinFast’s battery-swapping electric motorcycles not only demonstrates the products’ appeal but also underscores the company’s investment commitment and rapid expansion in the Philippines.
VinFast aims to develop its dealerships as all-in-one destinations, bringing product displays, energy solutions, and technical services together under one roof. Customers can receive personalized consultations, take test rides, experience a one-minute battery swap, explore home-charging solutions, and choose an ownership option that best suits their needs, with professional support throughout the entire journey, from initial product discovery to after-sales service.
In addition to the official showcase of the brand’s first product lineup and its full range of available colors, the launch featured test rides and one-minute battery-swapping demonstrations. The brand also shared its official local pricing, battery solutions, and supporting ecosystem, including plans to deploy 30,000 battery-swapping cabinets nationwide in partnership with infrastructure providers.
Following the launch event, a series of public experience activities will take place at the new dealerships throughout August 2026. Customers will be able to see and test ride the three models, learn about battery technology and sales policies, and explore flexible ownership options. Details of the test ride program and applicable terms are available on VinFast’s official website: vinfastauto.ph/en.
To celebrate the occasion, participating dealerships will introduce a variety of exclusive offers and promotional programs, providing additional benefits and value for early adopters.
Ms. Vo Thi Cam Tu, CEO of VinFast E-Scooters & E-Bikes, International Markets, said: “Opening 21 VinFast showrooms alongside the launch of our three electric motorcycle models reflects VinFast’s long-term investment commitment to the Philippines. Beyond offering products that meet diverse mobility needs, we are building a comprehensive ecosystem that makes it easier for customers to access our vehicles, energy solutions, and support services throughout their ownership journey. As our electric mobility ecosystem continues to expand, we believe electric motorcycles can become an increasingly practical and convenient choice in the everyday lives of Filipinos.”
Evo, Feliz II, and Viper each offer distinct characteristics designed to meet a wide range of mobility needs and riding styles. Evo combines elegant styling with everyday agility, offering a top speed of 80 km/h and a range of up to 150 km with two fully charged batteries. Feliz II emphasizes practicality and versatile performance, with a top speed of 90 km/h. Rounding out the lineup is Viper, featuring a sporty design, maximum power output of 5,200W, and a top speed of 90 km/h, aimed at younger riders who value technology and engaging riding experience.
All three models feature two under-seat battery compartments and are compatible with VinFast’s battery-swapping solution, giving riders greater flexibility and convenience in everyday use. Customers can also choose between purchasing their motorcycle with batteries included or subscribing to a battery subscription plan, depending on their needs and usage patterns.
Notably, VinFast electric motorcycle owners will receive free battery swaps at public swapping stations operated by strategic partner V-Green for one year, with up to 20 swaps per month per vehicle. The models are also covered by a 4+2-year or 60,000+12,000-km warranty, whichever comes first, providing customers with greater benefits, lower operating costs, and long-term peace of mind.
VinFast’s entry into the Philippine electric motorcycle market builds on its expansion across key Southeast Asian markets, following the opening of 20 electric motorcycle dealerships in Indonesia in July 2026. By steadily expanding its presence, VinFast is building out a comprehensive green mobility ecosystem across the region, making it easier for consumers to transition to smarter, more modern, and environmentally-friendly transportation solutions.
Hashtag: #VinFast
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Hong Kong is heading towards its wettest July since 1997 after weeks of persistent downpours, tropical cyclone activity and unstable low-pressure systems pushed rainfall far above the long-term average.
Rain measured at the Hong Kong Observatory’s headquarters had already exceeded the normal July total before the final third of the month. Further heavy showers linked to Typhoon Noul and moist south-westerly air lifted the cumulative figure closer to levels last recorded nearly three decades ago.
The territory received 474.7 millimetres of rain during the first 20 days of July, 23 per cent above the monthly average of 385.8 millimetres. Additional downpours later in the month strengthened the prospect of July becoming one of the wettest on record since observations began in 1884.
Forecasters expect unsettled conditions to extend into early August. A broad area of low pressure over the northern South China Sea and the western Pacific is likely to maintain a flow of moisture towards the Guangdong coast, bringing showers, thunderstorms and periods of heavier rain.
Rainfall this month followed an unusually wet June, when about 600.5 millimetres was recorded, roughly 22 per cent above normal. The back-to-back wet months have saturated hillsides, raised the risk of landslides and placed greater pressure on drainage systems across densely built districts.
Typhoon Noul added to the disruption after approaching the southern China coast and bringing squally showers, powerful winds and rough seas. Hundreds of flights were cancelled in Hong Kong, while transport services were adjusted and residents were warned to avoid shorelines and exposed areas.
At least 21 people were injured as the storm affected the city. Fallen trees, damaged scaffolding and blocked roads were reported, although Hong Kong avoided the larger-scale destruction seen in parts of Guangdong, where hundreds of thousands of people were evacuated before landfall.
Noul became the third tropical cyclone to affect southern China during July, underlining an active phase in the western North Pacific. Cyclones Bavi and Maysak had already contributed to difficult weather conditions across parts of the region, with heavy rain extending beyond coastal areas.
Meteorologists say the extraordinary rainfall has resulted from repeated interactions between tropical systems, low-pressure troughs and moisture-rich monsoon winds. Such patterns can produce long periods of rain even when the centre of a cyclone remains some distance from Hong Kong.
The city’s steep terrain and dense urban development increase its exposure to sudden flooding. Intense rainfall can overwhelm drains within minutes, particularly in low-lying districts and older neighbourhoods where water has fewer routes to escape.
Officials have repeatedly reminded residents to monitor rainstorm warnings, avoid watercourses and report signs of slope instability. Schools, businesses and public transport operators are required to follow warning arrangements when Amber, Red or Black rainstorm signals are issued.
The Observatory has issued dozens of rainstorm warnings since June, far more than during the same period last year. The frequency reflects not only the amount of rain but the number of intense bursts capable of disrupting travel and daily activity.
Hong Kong has experienced several severe rainfall episodes over the past few years. A record-breaking storm in September 2023 produced 158.1 millimetres of rain in a single hour, the highest hourly total since records began, flooding roads, underground stations and shopping areas.
A cluster of four Black rainstorm episodes between late July and early August 2025 further demonstrated the difficulty of forecasting small, fast-developing systems. Some storms formed rapidly near the Pearl River estuary, leaving limited time for highly localised warnings.
Climate researchers expect warmer air and seas to increase the moisture available to tropical weather systems. A warmer atmosphere can hold more water vapour, raising the potential for heavier short-duration rainfall when atmospheric conditions trigger thunderstorms.
Natural year-to-year variations remain important, and no single wet month can be attributed solely to climate change. Long-term observations, however, show growing concern over the intensity of extreme rainfall events across subtropical coastal cities.
The financial impact extends beyond damaged property. Persistent bad weather can affect aviation, shipping, construction, retail activity and outdoor tourism. Insurance claims may rise when flooding damages vehicles, homes and commercial premises.
Lesotho’s exports can again enter the United States without tariffs after a temporary levy introduced following a landmark Supreme Court judgment expired, offering crucial relief to the country’s garment factories and thousands of workers. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Business Development welcomed the restoration of duty-free treatment, saying the change would strengthen the competitiveness of products manufactured in the kingdom. The tariff expired on July 29, […]
France, Spain and Greece battled destructive wildfires on Thursday as extreme heat, dry vegetation and strong winds forced hundreds of thousands of people from homes, holiday resorts and threatened communities. Firefighters gained ground against some of the largest blazes in France and Spain, but authorities warned that unstable weather and exhausted emergency crews left wide areas vulnerable to fresh outbreaks. Greece faced a worsening emergency after fires […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai The UAE has abolished 15 capital-market fees while raising selected charges linked to public offerings, combining broad cost relief for financial firms with higher pricing for regulatory work on complex transactions. The Capital Market Authority approved the changes after reviewing fees covering services and activities under its supervision. The overhaul is intended to simplify the charging structure, remove costs that no longer serve […]
