Evening Update Wednesday 30th April 2025

NEWS
Saharan Heat Wave - A hot air surge from the Sahara will bring early and intense heat to southern France, with temperatures nearing 30°C on the 30th of April. This dynamic weather event, increasingly common due to climate change, can raise temperatures 10–12°C above seasonal norms and affect health and the environment. Though the warmth is temporary, with a rapid temperature drop expected in 72 hours, experts warn these recurring heat spikes signal the growing impact of global warming.

Honouring Foreign Legion - French President Emmanuel Macron has attended the Camerone Day ceremony in Aubagne, Bouches-du-Rhône, marking the first time a French president has participated in this key event honouring the Foreign Legion. He reviewed the troops, awarded medals, and praised their values of honour and loyalty, commemorating the 1863 battle of Camerone, a foundational moment for the Legion. Around 10,000 people attended, and the ceremony concluded with a private naturalization event for new legionnaires.

Monaco E-Prix Fan Village - If you're attending the Monaco E-Prix this weekend, the free “fan village” on Quai Antoine-1er offers gaming simulators, photo ops, kids’ activities, live shows, and official merchandise. Expect traffic and parking restrictions around the circuit on the 3rd and 4th of May, with shuttle service from the Salines parking area and public transport diversions. The event aims to boost excitement around the E-Prix and promote Formula-E in Monaco with engaging experiences for all ages.

Nitrous Oxide on the Rise - Nearly 6,000 nitrous oxide canisters have been found in the streets in 2024, posing both health and environmental risks in Nice. Originally used in medicine and cooking, the gas is now misused for its euphoric effects, and discarded canisters can explode in incinerators, causing costly damage. Officials urge proper disposal at waste centres and call for stricter laws, as the issue grows with larger canisters and legal loopholes.

First Voter Cards - 300–400 young adults have received their first voter cards during a civic ceremony marking their 18th birthday in Antibes. While some saw it as an important step into adulthood, others were indifferent or openly rejected the system, criticizing democracy’s effectiveness. One attendee even called for a return to monarchy, highlighting generational divides in how French youth perceive their civic role.

Foire de la Côte d’Azur - A new event called the Foire de la Côte d’Azur will debut from the 10th to the 15th of September, featuring diverse themes like home, wellness, vehicles, food, and more, with free entry and parking in Nice. Unlike the spring Foire de Nice, this autumn fair aims to fill a regional gap and offer a more modern, accessible, and hybrid (physical + digital) experience. Its organizer emphasizes collaboration, not competition, and plans to attract families and curious visitors through thematic zones and local business partnerships.

New Phillipe Tayac Boutique - Renowned pastry chef Philippe Tayac is set to open his fourth boutique in Monaco this May, following successful locations in Nice, Cap 3000, and Cannes, showcasing his refined and modern pastries in a jewellery store-style setting. From humble beginnings, Tayac has built his brand through hard work, creativity, and local roots, transforming childhood challenges into strength and ambition. His Monaco shop marks a key step toward international exposure, while he remains focused on quality, accessibility, and growing his brand with passion and precision.
 

NEWS UPDATE 
Armed Man in Nice - A man armed with a weapon has been arrested on Wednesday afternoon, triggering a major police operation near Pasteur Hospital in Nice. The area was completely sealed off, causing massive traffic jams and a temporary lockdown at the hospital, which was later lifted. Police used drones and special units, and as of 4:30 PM, traffic in the area remained heavily disrupted.

Esultate The first part of Esultate, a documentary about the history of the Monte-Carlo Opera, premiered on the 28th of April in the Salle Garnier before 400 guests, including Prince Albert II. Directed by Frédéric Laurent and his son Jérémie, the film covers the Opera’s rich legacy from 1879 to 1951, highlighting key figures like Raoul Gunsburg and its cultural impact on Monaco. This ambitious project, backed by Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, features over 180 opera clips, 700 archival images, and 149 digitized programs.
 

BUSINESS
Despite U.S. President Donald Trump's harsh tariffs, China remains defiant, using the challenge to boost nationalism and double down on economic self-reliance. Domestically, China faces serious issues like a collapsing housing market, rising youth unemployment, and weak consumer spending, which threaten Xi Jinping’s prosperity goals. China is turning outward, diversifying trade partners beyond the U.S., but its success now hinges on domestic reforms and long-term resilience rather than external negotiations.

And - Many young Vietnamese know little about the Vietnam War, even as the country marks its 50th anniversary of reunification. Modern Vietnam is rapidly developing, embracing capitalism while balancing relations with both the U.S. and China amid trade tensions. Despite the war’s painful legacy, there's widespread optimism among the youth, and even veterans stress peace and future cooperation over past conflict.
 

SPORTS
Golf - Rory McIlroy will play the Scottish Open at the Renaissance Club as part of his preparations for the Open Championship in his native Northern Ireland this summer. The Masters champion will aim to win a second Open title at Royal Portrush from 17-20 July.

Football - Evanilson's suspension has been rescinded after Bournemouth successfully appealed against his red card in their 1-1 Premier League draw with Manchester United on Sunday. The striker was initially given a yellow card for a challenge on Noussair Mazraoui, but it was upgraded following a video assistant referee (VAR) review. Evanilson appeared to slip as he closed down the United defender.

Cricket - Planning and digital renders for a new stadium and high-performance centre for Cricket Ireland in Dublin have been lodged by Sport Ireland. The plans include a floodlit stadium with a seated capacity of 4,240 spectators and a two-storey pavilion, where the sport's high-performance centre would be located.
 

WEATHER
Bright and clear in most of the region, though risks of thunderstorm still persist in some parts of the Alpes-Maritimes and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence departments. We’ve got a gentle breeze across the region with highs of 23 degrees in Saint-Tropez and Marseille and 24 degrees in Nice, Cannes and Toulon.

Tonight, clear skies with lows of 16 degrees.

Outlook for tomorrow, mostly clear with highs of 23 degrees and a gentle breeze.

Last local news

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