2024 Declared Hottest Year on Record, Surpassing Preindustrial Levels by 1.5°C
According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), 2024 has been confirmed as the hottest year globally since records began in 1850, marking the first year when the average global temperature exceeded preindustrial levels by more than 1.5°C. Contributing factors include human-induced climate change and the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO). The global average temperature reached 15.10°C, surpassing the 1991-2020 average by 0.72°C and the previous record set in 2023 by 0.12°C. Notably, all months from January to June experienced record-breaking temperatures, and 2024 saw unprecedented marine surface temperatures, which exacerbated heat stress across the Northern Hemisphere. Climate experts emphasize the urgent need for decisive action to mitigate future climate impacts.
Public Transport and Air Travel Strike Planned for January 10, 2025
A nationwide strike in Italy will disrupt public transport and air travel on January 10, 2025, as the Faisa Confail union protests a proposed €200 salary increase and aggression towards staff. The four-hour strike will affect local public transport in regions such as Lazio and Rome, where services on the Atac network and other local lines will not operate from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM. While some metro lines in Rome will remain open, surface bus services may face reductions. In Milan, the strike will occur from 8:45 AM to 12:45 PM, though all metro lines will be operational. Additionally, a four-hour air travel strike will affect personnel at Milan Linate, Milan Malpensa, and Venice Marco Polo airports, likely causing flight delays and cancellations. Train services will also experience disruptions, with minimum transport services assured until 9 PM on January 10.
Italy Reaffirms Support for Ukraine During Zelensky’s Visit
Italian President Sergio Mattarella confirmed Italy’s unwavering support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression during a meeting at the Quirinal Palace with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Mattarella emphasized that this support stems from the friendship between the two nations, respect for international coexistence, and the security of all of Europe. Zelensky’s visit followed a meeting with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at Palazzo Chigi, and he is scheduled to give an interview later in the day on Rainews24 with director Paolo Petrecca.
Seven-Year-Old Dies After Collapse at School in South Tyrol
A seven-year-old boy tragically passed away at Brunico Hospital in South Tyrol two days ago after collapsing at his elementary school in Villa Ottone. According to the local newspaper Dolomiten, the boy, who had Moroccan origins, felt dizzy following a skating session with his classmates before fainting and falling to the ground. Emergency services were called immediately, and he was transported to the hospital, but despite resuscitation efforts, he died shortly thereafter. An autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of his sudden illness.
Jannik Sinner Addresses Criticism Ahead of Australian Open
As the Australian Open approaches, world number one Jannik Sinner has spoken out regarding criticism from players like Nick Kyrgios related to the Clostebol case, asserting, “I know how things went and that I did nothing wrong.” Sinner emphasized the importance of having supportive people around him as he prepares for his match against Nicolas Jarry. Reflecting on last year’s experiences, he expressed excitement about returning to Melbourne, acknowledging that he could have handled certain situations better but has learned from them. While he continues to think about the Clostebol incident, he is focused on winning another Grand Slam, stating, “I’m here to win an Slam.”
