NEWS
Orange Weather Alert - The Alpes-Maritimes and Var departments have been placed on orange alert for heavy rain and flooding, with ongoing yellow alerts for thunderstorms. Météo-France warns of a Mediterranean weather event, bringing significant rainfall, especially in the Estérel Massif and coastal areas.
Monaco is to Legalise Abortion - Monaco's National Council will soon propose a law to legalise abortion, following public consultation where 82% of respondents supported the change. A vote could take place in April, but the issue remains sensitive in the Catholic state.
Monaco's Stance on Facial Recognition for Security - Monaco's police supports facial recognition for security, though the National Council has reservations about protecting individual freedoms. While a proposed law exists, lawmakers stress the need for safeguards and confirm it won’t be implemented in 2025.
Tourism on the Côte d’Azur - Tourism employers struggle to recruit seasonal workers due to high housing costs, prompting luxury hotels to offer incentives, including accommodation on the Côte d’Azur. Local authorities are also stepping in, with initiatives like subsidised housing and a planned "Maison des saisonniers" in Nice, set to offer 90 furnished flats by 2027.
Toll Prices on the Côte d’Azur - Toll prices have risen by 0.9%, while TER train fares increased by €1 per journey on the Côte d’Azur. For short trips like Nice-Antibes or Nice-Monaco, the cheapest options are buses (€2.10) or carpooling, while trains are the most expensive unless you have a subscription.
Mayor of La Turbie Frustrated over Legal Challenges - The mayor of La Turbie has expressed frustration over legal challenges delaying key projects, including a cycling centre and a veterinary hospital. He criticized the financial burden of these legal battles and the state’s management, while reaffirming plans for senior housing, a nursery, and economic development initiatives.
Nine People Arrested in Drug Dealing Spot - Nine people have been arrested in Nice-East for attempting to reclaim a former drug dealing spot in the Roquebillière residences. The area has been the scene of violent turf wars since a police raid dismantled the network in November 2024. Weapons, drugs, and cash were seized, and a judicial investigation may be launched for drug trafficking and organized crime.
Processionary Caterpillars - Processionary caterpillars are appearing earlier than usual due to warmer winters, with their silk nests now widespread on pine trees in the PACA region. Their urticating hairs pose risks, especially to pets like dogs, causing severe allergic reactions. Experts advise avoiding contact, keeping animals away, and taking precautions when outdoors.
Avoid Off-Piste - Ski patrollers are urging skiers to avoid off-piste areas due to avalanche risks, especially with recent heavy snowfall in Risoul, Hautes-Alpes. Their job includes triggering-controlled avalanches to secure ski runs, but off-piste areas remain unpredictable and dangerous.
BUSINESS
Donald Trump criticised the Federal Reserve for keeping interest rates unchanged, blaming it for inflation and economic mismanagement. Fed Chair Jerome Powell defended the decision, stressing uncertainty about the economy and denying political influence. Trump's economic plans, including tariffs and tax cuts, have sparked debate over their impact and the Fed’s independence.
And - Vodafone has made the UK's first satellite-enabled smartphone video call, aiming to expand coverage to remote areas by 2026. The service, developed with AST SpaceMobile, faces regulatory and infrastructure challenges, while astronomers warn that more satellites could hinder space observation.
SPORTS
Football - During the Nice-Marseille match which ended in Nice’s victory 2-0, the LFP has had to take action following incidents, including allegedly racist banners and homophobic chants. As a precaution, Nice’s south stand will be closed for their next home game, with further sanctions possible on the 12th of February.
Tennis - Britain's Emma Raducanu will play in a qualifying draw for the first time since her fairytale run to the 2021 US Open title after being offered a wildcard to the preliminary stage of next week's Abu Dhabi Open.
Cricket - England are already on the back foot in their attempt to avoid a 16-0 clean sweep in the Women's Ashes, having been bowled out for 170 on day one of the one-off Test.
WEATHER
The Alpes-Maritimes and Var departments are under orange alert for rain and flooding, with ongoing yellow alerts for thunderstorms, so you can expect a very wet day throughout the region with moderate to strong winds. Highs of 12 degrees in Nice, 13 in Cannes and Saint-Tropez, 14 in Toulon and 15 degrees in Marseille.
Tonight, the PACA region will be mostly clear with the exception of the Alpes-Maritime and Var which remain clouded with thunderstorms. Lows of 8 degrees.
Outlook for tomorrow, chances of light rain with highs of 14 degrees and moderate winds.
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