NEWS
Wet Week - Rain will dominate much of the week in the Alpes-Maritimes, with some sunny breaks expected by the weekend. Temperatures will range from 12–16°C on the coast, with colder conditions inland. After a rainy Thursday and Friday, the weekend promises clear skies and even a chance of snow in the higher-altitude areas.
Storm Herminia - Storm Herminia has caused heavy rainfall in the southern Alps, equivalent to a month's worth in a single day, leading to a high avalanche risk on Monday, the 27th of January in most massifs. Authorities urge extreme caution as unstable snowpack and rain increase the likelihood of spontaneous avalanches and localized flooding. Conditions are expected to improve slightly by evening, with cooler temperatures and light snow forecast in the coming days.
Monaco Liver Disorder Association - The Monaco Liver Disorder association (M.L.D.) has raised €10,000 to support research into new therapies for treating liver cancer in young children, especially those resistant to chemotherapy. The event combined fundraising and community-building to provide hope and positivity for families affected by rare diseases, while also promoting organ donation awareness. Led by founder Carla Fadoul Shechter and with Princess Charlene as honorary president, M.L.D. aims to inspire resilience and advance medical progress.
Food Distribution in Nice - A long-standing food distribution service has been relocated after years of complaints from residents about cohabitation issues, such as public urination and littering in Nice’s port district. The program, which served 9,000 people in need, will now operate at two new locations, raising concerns from beneficiaries and charities about accessibility. Local authorities and associations aim to ensure continued support with expanded resources and extended hours at the new sites.
Monaco City Hall Seeks Director for Léo-Ferré Space - The Monaco City Hall is seeking a director for its new Léo-Ferré performance venue, set to open this fall in the Îlot Pasteur cultural center. The venue will feature a 1,500-seat theater and rehearsal spaces. Candidates with experience in artistic direction, administration, and financial management are encouraged to apply.
Toulon Opera Dismisses Choir Singers - The Toulon Opera is set to dismiss its 21 opera choir singers at the end of June due to financial difficulties, a decision that shocked the performers and cultural community. Singers, including a 30-year veteran, are contesting the move, which has drawn widespread support from cultural figures online. The layoffs mark the complete disbanding of the choir.
Ex Chorister Files Harassment Complaint - An ex-chorister from Spectacul'Art, a prominent Avignon-based choir, has filed a harassment complaint against its president, Vincent Fuchs, who denies the allegations. An investigation by "ici Vaucluse" uncovered claims of psychological abuse within the choir, which boasts 4,000 members and performs at prestigious venues across France. The situation escalated after a June incident where a chorister reported being assaulted with a syringe post-concert, raising concerns about internal tensions.
Mountail Guide on Trial in Nice - A mountain guide is on trial in Nice for involuntary manslaughter following a 2018 avalanche in Entraunes that killed four skiers in the Alpes-Maritimes. Despite a prior dismissal of charges, an appeal by a victim’s family led to the reopening of the case, focusing on alleged negligence, including leading the group despite high avalanche risk and lack of safety equipment. The guide, who survived the avalanche, denies wrongdoing but acknowledges potential errors in judgment.
Pet Microchip - A cat named Noël, lost for 15 years, was reunited with his owners just hours before passing away, thanks to a social media effort spanning from France to Tahiti. Noël had wandered the streets after his identification microchip’s contact details were left outdated, preventing earlier reunification despite his owners' years of searching. His story highlights the critical importance of keeping pet microchip information updated to avoid such heartbreaking separations.
BUSINESS
Meta has replaced its professional fact-checking program with a community-driven system similar to X’s “community notes,” aiming for greater scalability and perceived neutrality. While proponents argue this approach can tackle misinformation faster and reach a broader audience, critics worry it lacks the consistency, expertise, and effectiveness of professional fact-checking, potentially allowing harmful content to spread. Mark Zuckerberg’s decision, paired with relaxed content moderation rules, has sparked concerns over Meta’s ability to handle misinformation responsibly.
And - Tensions have escalated between the US and Colombia after Colombian President Gustavo Petro barred US military planes carrying deported migrants from landing. In retaliation, US President Trump announced immediate 25% tariffs on Colombian imports, sanctions on officials, and enhanced border inspections, while Petro imposed his own tariffs on US goods. Both leaders traded strong statements, reflecting a broader clash over immigration policies amidst Trump’s aggressive deportation efforts.
SPORTS
Monaco Rallye - Sébastien Ogier has won the Monte Carlo Rally for the 10th time on the 26th of January, setting a new record and matching Sébastien Loeb’s nine WRC wins at the same rally. He dedicated the victory to his late uncle and confirmed he will only participate in select rallies in 2025, focusing on helping his team win the constructors’ title. At 41, Ogier is unsure if he will compete next year, acknowledging he is nearing retirement.
Cricket - Mitchell Owen smashed a scintillating 39-ball century to lead Hobart Hurricanes to their maiden Big Bash League title.
Rugby Union - Australia-born number eight Alexander Masibaka, who plays for Soyaux-Angouleme in the second tier of French rugby, has received a shock call-up to Scotland's Six Nations squad.
WEATHER
Foggy and wet in most of the region with moderate winds. Highs of 15 degrees in Nice and Cannes, 16 in Saint-Tropez and Toulon, and 17 degrees in Marseille.
Tonight, much the same with lows of 10 degrees.
Outlook for tomorrow, mostly fine with chances of snow inland and strong winds. Highs of 15 degrees.
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