NEWS
Orange Flooding Alert - The Var region in France is under an orange weather alert for heavy rain and flooding, with intense rainfalls expected, particularly in the Maures, Le Luc, and Cuers areas. Météo-France indicates the risk may extend to nearby departments over the weekend, with the neighbouring Alpes-Maritimes will also be on orange alert from 10 p.m. Heavier storms are forecast to develop by Friday night.
Rain Causes Damage in Vidauban - Heavy rainfall has caused road closures and evacuations as homes are flooded, particularly in Vidauban in the Var where up to 150mm of rain fell. The A8 motorway has been partially closed this morning, and additional storms are expected later. Local authorities have deployed firefighters and rescue teams to manage flood-related emergencies and assist residents.
Time Change Safety - With the time change this weekend, visibility decreases, raising risks for pedestrians and cyclists due to reduced daylight and wet, slippery roads. Visibility kits will be distributed in major cities, including Marseille, to help reduce accidents, which spike after the time change. Insurance groups are urging for reflective gear and stricter helmet rules, and they emphasize the need for increased awareness and better infrastructure, like bike lanes, to enhance road safety.
Demolition of Moulins Towers in Nice - The demolition of two towers in Nice's Moulins neighbourhood has begun, aiming to revitalize the area and reduce drug trafficking. Residents and officials hope this renewal will enhance peace and safety, though some locals desire additional amenities like gyms and libraries. The demolished towers will be replaced with new housing and an avenue, expected by 2025.
Poor Hygiene in International Campus Cafeteria - A parents' group is raising hygiene concerns, reporting issues like pigeons near bread, dirty dishes, and even glass in food at the Campus International de Valbonne's cafeteria. The catering company, Elior, disputes the claims, noting improvements after a recent meeting and stating that few formal complaints have been received. Following parent feedback, two additional staff were hired to improve service flow and food quality, with hopes for resolution after the school break.
BUSINESS
McDonald’s has temporarily removed quarter pounders and onions from about 20% of its US stores due to an E. coli outbreak linked to 49 cases across 10 states, with one death. Investigations suggest onions may be the source of contamination, though patties haven't been ruled out. McDonald's aims to resolve the issue and return quarter pounders to affected locations soon.
Kamala Harris proposes a national ban on price gouging during crises to prevent companies from unfairly raising prices, particularly for essential goods like groceries. Economists are divided on its effectiveness; with some warning it could backfire by discouraging supply increases. Harris also aims to cap prescription drug costs, but extending these caps to private insurers may lead to higher premiums for consumers.
And - Thames Water has secured a £3 billion loan to stabilize finances until October 2024 amidst high debt and potential investor changes. The loan helps avert a government takeover while allowing time for discussions on debt reduction and rate increases for its 14 million customers. As water industry reform intensifies, a new UK commission will explore industry improvements and regulatory overhaul, with rising bills expected to attract private investment for infrastructure upgrades.
SPORTS
Football - Richarlison scored from the penalty spot to help Tottenham maintain their perfect start in the Europa League with victory over AZ Alkmaar.
Tennis - British number one Katie Boulter beat former US Open champion Bianca Andreescu to reach the semi-finals of the Pan Pacific Open 6-2 6-1.
Basketball – Yesterday’s final was inconclusive for AS Monaco as they lost 80-87 against Paris.
WEATHER
Rain and thunderstorms across the Cote d’Azur that will continue throughout the day with moderate winds. Highs of 20 degrees in Nice, 21 in Cannes, Saint-Tropez and Toulon, and 22 degrees in Marseille.
Tonight, rain and storms with lows of 16 degrees
Outlook for this weekend:
Sat: Thunderstorms throughout the region with highs of 21 degrees
Sun: the Thunder will make way to just rain in the afternoon with highs of 21 degrees
Mon: partly cloudy with sunny spells and highs 23 degrees with moderate winds.
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