NEWS
Weather Alert Lifted in the PACA Region - Despite alarming yellow alerts issued today for strong winds in the Alpes Maritimes, it seems the alert has been lifted in the PACA region. The sky will be bright and clear this afternoon with gentle to moderate winds with temperatures ranging from 16 degrees this afternoon in the Var, to minus 12 degrees tonight in the Alpes de Haut de Provence. In spite of that, 51 departments remain under yellow alert for avalanches and extreme cold across France, and one department is under orange alert for flooding in Northern France.
Wildfires in LA - Devastating wildfires have killed 24 people, destroyed over 10,000 homes, and turned the city of Los Angeles into a "ghost town." Two Niçois residents describe the unpredictability and solidarity among locals, despite frustrations with inadequate public policies and fragile infrastructure. Evacuees face prolonged uncertainty as strong winds threaten to reignite the flames.
Exotic Garden of Monaco to Reopen - The Exotic Garden of Monaco, closed since 2020 for extensive renovations, is set to potentially reopen by late summer 2025, according to the mayor. The restoration preserved the garden's historical character while adding modern features like Wi-Fi and lighting for evening events. With 150,000 annual visitors before its closure, the garden aims to welcome tourists and locals back to its lush, rejuvenated space.
Strike in School Canteens of the Var - A strike by school canteen workers continues, with 200 staff protesting against heavy workloads and poor working conditions in the Var. Many canteens in 34 colleges were closed as workers demanded higher bonuses, permanent replacement staff, and better recognition of job strain. Despite acknowledging the challenges, local authorities have not initiated negotiations.
Saint-Charles School Biodiversity Census - 7th-grade students from Saint-Charles School have participated in a biodiversity census in the protected marine area, organized by the Monaco Association for Nature Protection In Monaco. Using the FAST protocol, they learned to identify and count key fish species, gaining practical experience in scientific methods to support marine conservation.
Students Craft Satellite Parts - At the Don Bosco vocational school, students are crafting components like satellite parts through a partnership with aerospace giant Thales in Nice. They learn to model and fabricate high-precision parts under strict industrial constraints, preparing them for advanced careers. The initiative aims to highlight the value of technical professions and support national manufacturing sovereignty.
Truck Accident, Driver Gets Sentenced - A truck driver has struck a 17-year-old's car and fled the scene while intoxicated in November 2024, in Nice. The court sentenced him to two years in prison (one year under house arrest with an electronic bracelet), a €20,000 fine, and €15,000 in damages. The victim, too traumatized to attend court, communicated through his stepfather.
Annual Solidarity Drive in Martigues - The annual solidarity drive in Martigues aims to replenish food and hygiene supplies for local aid organizations, as demand rises due to increasing poverty in the Var. This year’s collection, offering concert tickets in exchange for donations, is critical for struggling families, including those with jobs but living in extreme hardship. Volunteers highlight the growing challenges as resources dwindle and more people face dire circumstances, emphasizing the drive's importance for year-round support.
Historic Allard Fleurs Open Second Boutique - The historic Allard Fleurs family florist, active in Antibes for 80 years, has opened a second boutique on Rue Sade in the Old Town, near their traditional Provençal market stall. This new location preserves the family’s legacy while catering to locals, tourists, and nearby businesses. The shop offers unique floral selections sourced from France, Italy, and Holland.
BUSINESS
The U.S. plans new restrictions on exporting advanced AI technology and chips to most countries to protect national security, exempting key allies like the UK. Critics, including Nvidia and the EU, argue the measures could hurt innovation and America's competitiveness while potentially strengthening China's global AI position. The rules face a 120-day review period before implementation.
And - With a potential TikTok ban looming in the U.S., users are flocking to RedNote, a Chinese app resembling TikTok and Instagram, making it the top download on Apple's U.S. App Store. While RedNote has welcomed "TikTok refugees," concerns about censorship and security linger, similar to issues raised about TikTok. Many users see RedNote as a way to connect globally and explore new opportunities, despite language barriers and privacy concerns. With some users even saying "I love RedNote so far … I just need to learn how to speak Mandarin!"
SPORTS
Tennis - Daniil Medvedev destroyed a net camera as he battled to control his emotions in a five-set thriller against world number 418 Kasidit Samrej in the first round of the Australian Open. In spite of that, the Russian regained his composure to win 6-2 4-6 3-6 6-1 6-2.
Cricket - England wasted a golden opportunity to level the Women's Ashes as they failed to chase 181 for victory in a nail-biting finish at the Junction Oval in Melbourne.
Football - The Premier League has not charged any clubs for breaches of its financial rules after all were deemed financially compliant for the 2023-24 season. Most top-flight clubs had to submit their accounts for the 2023-24 season by 31 December and the Premier League is satisfied that all 20 members have remained within their profit and sustainability (PSR) rules.
WEATHER
Bright and clear once again this afternoon with gentle to moderate winds. Highs of 13 degrees in Marseille, 14 in Toulon, 15 in Nice, and 16 degrees in Cannes and Saint-Tropez.
Tonight, clear skies with lows 2 degrees.
Outlook for tomorrow, much the same! Bright and clear with highs of 14 degrees and gentle to moderate winds.
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