Extreme Weather Events Worldwide: Tornadoes, Floods, Heatwaves, and Freezes Dominate Headlines This Weekend

Extreme weather is wreaking havoc across the globe this weekend, with deadly consequences in multiple countries. From tornadoes in the US to flooding in Afghanistan, scorching heat in India, and record-breaking cold in Chile, the world is facing the wrath of Mother Nature.

In the US, tornadoes tore through areas of Houston, claiming the lives of at least seven people and leaving nearly one million homes and businesses without power. The fierce storms with winds reaching up to 100mph caused extensive damage, leading to a smog warning and temperatures soaring to 32.2C (90F).

Meanwhile, in Afghanistan, devastating floods took the lives of at least 68 people in the western part of the country. The province of Ghor suffered significant agricultural losses, with hundreds of hectares of land destroyed, including the capital city of Feroz Koh. This tragedy follows another deadly flooding incident in the northern province of Baghlan, where over 300 people lost their lives.

In India, scorching temperatures triggered a severe weather alert in New Delhi and surrounding areas, with temperatures soaring up to 47.1C (116.8F). The extreme heat coincides with a six-week-long general election, raising concerns about health risks for voters and campaigners exposed to the blistering conditions.

Chile is bracing for its coldest autumn in 70 years, with temperatures plummeting to historic lows in Santiago. The government issued cold weather alerts and increased assistance for homeless individuals struggling to endure the frigid temperatures on the streets.

In Europe, heavy rain caused flash floods in parts of Italy, France, and Germany, with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz touring the affected regions. Houses and cellars were flooded, streets were submerged, and cars were partially underwater. The German weather service has lifted the weather alert, but authorities warn that such flash floods only occur every few decades.