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Good news about Weather
Positive stories about Weather, gathered from the newsrooms Rally reads. Every headline links back to the publisher who reported it.
51 stories.
WindBorne wins a hefty US Air Force contract for its balloon data
A Silicon Valley startup has won a nearly $50 million U.S. military contract for its weather-predicting technology, which uses balloons and AI. The deal supports innovative weather forecasting and could improve military operations. It’s a win for both the company and the Air Force.
TechCrunch
What the inside of a tornado looked like as it passed through a Kansas town
Scientists are studying the inner workings of tornadoes to better understand and predict these destructive storms. Their research could help communities prepare more effectively, saving lives and property. This work brings hope for safer futures in tornado-prone areas.
El País (English)
Could 2026 Be a Year With No Atlantic Hurricanes? We've Surprisingly Passed Their Peak Month Without Any, Thanks to the El Niño
This year’s Atlantic hurricane season has passed its peak month without a single hurricane, a rare event not seen in over a century. The unusually strong El Niño is likely suppressing storms in the Atlantic, offering relief to coastal communities. While the Pacific faces more activity, this quiet season is a welcome break for vulnerable regions.
Smithsonian Magazine
Could El Niño mean there are no Atlantic hurricanes this year?
For the first time in 30 years, no Atlantic hurricanes formed in September, the peak of the season. This rare calm offers relief to coastal communities and emergency responders. It’s a quiet moment in an otherwise stormy cycle.
BBC News
The Atlantic hurricane season has been so quiet it’s unprecedented
This year’s Atlantic hurricane season has broken records by reaching the end of September without a single hurricane, a first in recorded history. The quiet season means fewer disruptions and dangers for coastal communities, offering a rare moment of relief. It’s a welcome break for those who face the season’s usual risks.
Scientific American
News in Frames: After the drought,a refreshing respite
After a prolonged drought, parts of Andhra Pradesh are finally receiving much-needed rainfall, easing the severe deficit caused by El Niño. This weather shift brings relief to communities struggling with water shortages, offering hope for recovery and a return to normalcy.
The Hindu
‘Godzilla’ El Niño to be the strongest in living memory. How can we prepare for the unavoidable?
Experts believe that while El Niño cannot be stopped, enhanced preparation and climate action can help reduce its impact now and in the future. This proactive approach can protect communities and ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of resilience in the face of climate challenges.
Euronews
Yucatán Strengthens Hurricane Preparedness with Statewide Protection Operation
Yucatán’s government and Civil Protection Agency are boosting hurricane readiness to protect residents during the tropical cyclone season. The strengthened measures aim to keep people safe as storms approach. This proactive effort shows commitment to community well-being.
The Yucatan Times
The Atlantic reaches a milestone for the latest date without a hurricane
And according to to the National Hurricane Center, no hurricanes are on the horizon.
The Washington Post
New hurricane season record as 'historic' El Niño leaves Atlantic eerily quiet
A rare quiet Atlantic hurricane season is bringing relief to coastal communities, thanks to a strong El Niño suppressing storm formation. This break from destructive weather offers a chance for recovery and preparation. Fewer hurricanes mean safer conditions and less economic strain for vulnerable areas.
BBC News
Continuous drizzle provides welcome respite to Visakhapatnam
The steady rain in Visakhapatnam has brought relief, offering a much-needed break from dry conditions. This respite benefits the area by easing water shortages and supporting local agriculture. The drizzle is a welcome change for residents facing prolonged dry spells.
The Hindu
P6.2 billion slated for fertilizer, fuel aid to ease El Niño impact
The government is allocating P6.2 billion to support farmers with fertilizer and fuel aid, helping them cope with El Niño’s challenges. The Agriculture Department is also seeking an additional P10 billion in next year’s budget to prepare for further impacts. This funding aims to ease hardship and protect livelihoods during the drought.
Rappler
Update to Google’s AI weather model improves forecast accuracy
Google’s AI weather model now uses more inputs to improve accuracy, matching traditional models with less computing power. This means faster, more frequent forecasts that help everyone stay better prepared. It’s a step forward for reliable, efficient weather predictions.
Ars Technica
Some Cape Breton residents no longer stranded as flooding recovery continues
Some residents in Cape Breton can now travel again after roads damaged by flooding were repaired, though caution is still advised. The recovery effort means fewer people are stranded, bringing relief to those affected. This progress is a step toward restoring normalcy after the severe weather.
Global News
'I'm not going to just sit and watch TV': Residents adapt to new heatwave peak in Toulouse
Residents in Toulouse are finding ways to stay active and engaged despite record September heatwaves. The city’s high temperatures, which reached 37.2°C, haven’t stopped locals from adapting to the challenges of extreme weather. Their resilience offers a model for others facing similar climate shifts.
Le Monde
Balloons over Saskatoon help anticipate severe summer storms
Weather balloons launched in Saskatoon are giving forecasters better data to predict severe summer storms before they hit. The program helps communities prepare for dangerous weather, making it easier to stay safe. This kind of early warning is a practical way to protect people and property.
Global News
‘I would not trade Chennai for any other city in the world, irrespective of the weather’
A resident of Chennai expresses deep affection for the city, valuing it above all others despite its weather. Their unwavering love highlights the unique charm that makes the city special. This heartfelt sentiment celebrates the enduring appeal of home.
The Hindu
Whatever happened to the floating schools of Bangladesh?
Bangladesh’s floating schools help children reach school safely during monsoon floods, ensuring they keep learning. The idea was simple but effective, proving that creative solutions can overcome major challenges. It’s a small but meaningful step toward education for all.
NPR
Many Italians long resisted air-conditioning. Then Europe got hotter
Italians are embracing air-conditioning as extreme heatwaves make traditional cooling methods like open windows and fans unsustainable. The shift helps residents cope with rising temperatures, improving comfort and health. It’s a practical response to a changing climate.
The Sydney Morning Herald
Public reacts to Ariane 6 rocket launch with MTG-I2
Ariane 6 successfully launched the MTG-I2 satellite, a new-generation weather monitor that will improve Europe’s ability to track atmospheric conditions. Spectators in French Guiana shared their excitement, highlighting the mission’s importance for climate and safety. The launch marks a step forward in global weather monitoring.
Euronews
More than 300 cooling centres to open if S’pore faces heatwave: New heat office
Singapore is preparing for heatwaves by opening more than 300 cooling centres, giving people a safe place to escape extreme heat. The public will get at least four days’ notice via the weather app, helping them plan ahead. This proactive approach ensures communities stay safe during dangerous temperatures.
The Straits Times
Hats on, shades on: Tourists in Greece better prepared for sun and heat risks
Tourists in Greece are taking more care to protect themselves from the sun, with growing awareness of the importance of hats and shades. As heatwaves and wildfires become more frequent, this simple step helps visitors stay safer in extreme conditions. It’s a small but meaningful way to reduce health risks during hot weather.
Euronews
PM Shehbaz directs authorities to provide financial assistance to flood-hit families
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered financial aid for families hit by recent monsoon rains and flooding. The move will help vulnerable households recover from the damage. This support offers crucial relief in difficult circumstances.
Dawn
Hidden Structures in Clouds May Solve a Longstanding Mystery About Rainfall
It's well known that where there's smoke there's fire, but did you know that where there's rain there's ice?
ScienceAlert
Solar buoyed Europe’s grid amid record-breaking heat and drought this summer
Europe’s solar power helped stabilize its energy grid during this summer’s extreme heat and drought, as other sources like wind and thermal plants faced challenges. The resilience of solar energy offers a lesson in climate-proofing the continent’s energy systems. This is a win for clean energy and a step toward more reliable power in a warming world.
Grist
Rain to stop in time for weekend as sun returns
After days of heavy rain and flooding, the UK is set to see drier, sunnier weather over the weekend. The shift to high pressure will bring relief to those affected by the downpours, though cooler nights remain. It’s a welcome change for outdoor plans and travel.
BBC News
Coolcations: 'They used to joke about our weather - now they can't wait for the rain'
Visitors from warmer parts of the UK are traveling to Scotland to escape the heat, turning its cooler climate into an attraction. A couple spotted the opportunity to promote this refreshing change, offering a new way for people to beat the heat. It’s good news for tourism and those seeking relief from rising temperatures.
BBC News
Drought reveals Emperor Nero's bridge beneath Rome's Tiber river
A drought has lowered Rome’s Tiber River, revealing the remains of an ancient bridge long hidden beneath the water. Archaeologists now believe the structure may predate Emperor Nero, offering new insights into Rome’s history. The discovery helps researchers better understand the city’s past.
Euronews
Opal Coast attracts tourists in search of cooler weather: 'Even people from the South are coming up here!'
Tourist numbers along the Pas-de-Calais and Nord coastline have surged, drawn by its cooler temperatures and expansive sandy beaches. The rise in visitors benefits local economies and offers a refreshing escape for travelers seeking relief from the heat. It’s a win for both the region and those looking for a more comfortable getaway.
Le Monde
Wind and rain help limit spread of Belgium wildfire, officials say
Wind and rain slowed the spread of a Belgian wildfire overnight, giving firefighters more time to contain the blaze. The shift in weather conditions helped prevent the fire from reaching the German border. The slower spread offers hope for better control and safety.
Le Monde
Rome’s Colosseum extends cool night tours as heatwaves scorch city
Rome’s Colosseum is extending its evening tours to four nights a week this summer, offering visitors a cooler and more comfortable way to explore the ancient site. The fully booked tours let people experience the arena and underground passages after dark, avoiding the worst of the heat. This expansion makes the landmark more accessible during extreme temperatures.
Africanews
Sun-tanned cauliflowers and knobbly spuds - the heatwave veg that's good to eat
British shoppers may soon see more irregular vegetables like sun-tanned cauliflowers and knobbly potatoes, thanks to repeated heatwaves. This shift helps farmers reduce food waste by selling produce that might otherwise be discarded. It’s a small but meaningful step toward sustainability.
BBC News
Tarbela Dam attains maximum storage level
Tarbela Dam has reached its full storage capacity, boosting Pakistan’s water reserves. The milestone enhances the country’s ability to conserve water, supporting agriculture, energy, and communities that rely on this vital resource.
Dawn
Hot weather reveals hidden history across the South
The unusually warm and dry summer in southern England has revealed parch marks on lawns, uncovering the outlines of centuries-old structures. These hidden histories help historians and archaeologists better understand the past. The discovery offers a unique glimpse into the region’s heritage, making it a welcome find for those interested in local history.
BBC News
DeepMind’s hurricane breakthrough has surprised weather scientists
AI weather models like WeatherNext can now make accurate predictions using lower-resolution data, helping scientists forecast storms with greater confidence. This breakthrough could improve early warnings and preparedness, especially in vulnerable regions. The advance shows how AI is making weather science more precise and accessible.
Ars Technica
South Koreans beat the heat with ‘silent disco’ pool party
South Koreans in Seoul cooled off with a silent disco pool party during a record-breaking heat wave.
Al Jazeera
'El-Nino is a blessing' for Indonesian salt farmers
While drought threatens crops in West Java, salt farmers are thriving. The dry conditions, driven by El Niño, create ideal conditions for salt production, offering a rare silver lining in a challenging climate. This unexpected benefit highlights how some communities adapt to weather extremes.
The Globe and Mail
DeepMind AI gives an extra day of warning ahead of deadly cyclones
DeepMind’s AI model can now predict cyclones three days ahead with the same accuracy as current methods manage a day later. This extra time could help communities make better evacuation decisions and save lives. The advance is a significant step in improving disaster preparedness.
New Scientist
DeepMind Says Its AI Can Predict Hurricanes Earlier Than Everyone Else
DeepMind’s AI model, WeatherNext, can predict hurricanes with greater accuracy and earlier than current methods, even using lower-resolution data. By improving storm forecasts, it could help communities prepare better and reduce harm. The model will be open-sourced, allowing researchers to build on its potential.
Wired
Urban landscapes can boost storms—or break them up
Cities can influence storms in unexpected ways, either intensifying or weakening them. Understanding these effects helps urban planners better prepare for extreme weather. The findings could lead to smarter city designs that reduce storm risks.
Scientific American
Indonesia’s salt fields bloom under drought from El Niño’s baking heat
In Indonesia’s West Java, salt farmers are thriving under El Niño’s drought, while crop farmers face challenges. The dry conditions create ideal salt-harvesting weather, offering a rare bright spot amid climate-driven hardship. It’s a reminder of how some communities adapt and even benefit from shifting weather patterns.
Daily Maverick
AI makes weather prediction better. Can WindBorne make it lucrative?
AI-powered weather forecasts are now running on laptops, not just supercomputers, making them more accessible. WindBorne Systems is scaling its weather balloons and AI tools to help people and organizations use these forecasts more easily. This could make weather prediction both better and more practical.
TechCrunch
Prague Zoo keeps polar bears cool with ice amid heatwave
Prague Zoo keepers used tonnes of ice to help animals cope with extreme heat, including polar bears Aluet and Gregor, who enjoyed rolling in the ice. The effort provided relief as Europe faced scorching temperatures, showing how thoughtful care can make a difference in challenging conditions.
Al Jazeera
Germany heatwave sees Cologne residents cool off in mist
Cologne authorities set up public water sprinklers to help residents beat the heat, as temperatures climbed near 35C. The effort provides relief during a dry summer, while also highlighting the city’s response to extreme weather. Low Rhine water levels show the broader impact of the heatwave.
Euronews
Rescue operation in Argentina to free more than 100 snow-trapped tourists
Emergency teams in Argentina rescued over 100 tourists stranded by heavy snow near the Balcon del Pissis lookout. Two people were treated for hypothermia, but most were safely freed. The swift response prevented further harm in harsh conditions.
Al Jazeera
Here’s how offshore wind helped New England beat record heat
New England’s offshore wind farms are helping the grid handle record heat by reducing reliance on oil power. The turbines, added over the past year, show clean energy can support the region during extreme weather. This is a win for both reliability and climate goals.
Grist
Karachi receives season’s first monsoon showers, light to moderate rain reported in parts of city
Karachi’s first monsoon showers brought light to moderate rain to parts of the city, offering relief from the heat. The downpour is a welcome start to the season, easing dry conditions and benefiting residents and the environment.
Dawn
Heatwave reveals lost archaeological sites across Wales
A prolonged heatwave in Wales has revealed lost archaeological sites hidden in grasslands, some not clearly visible for decades. The Royal Commission of Wales can now study these sites more easily, offering new insights into the region’s history. This unexpected discovery highlights how nature can help uncover the past.
BBC News
‘Burnham bounce’ and World Cup lift mood in July, says data firm
A wave of optimism swept the UK in July, driven by the prospect of a new prime minister, England’s World Cup progress, and warm weather. The mood boost could help individuals and businesses as confidence rises. It’s a reminder that shared moments and leadership changes can lift spirits.
The Guardian
How scientists forecast heatwaves
Scientists are using new tools to track temperature, sunlight, and other data to forecast heatwaves, helping communities prepare for extreme weather. As hotter temperatures become more frequent, this work provides crucial early warnings to stay safe. The insights also help predict future climate patterns, offering long-term benefits.
Euronews
A new map traces the sky’s water highways
A new global map reveals the hidden pathways of atmospheric rivers, which can cause floods or ease droughts. Scientists and communities can now better understand these weather systems to prepare for their impacts. The study helps improve water management and disaster planning worldwide.
Science News
