Gas flaring in Rivers State communities has been associated with increased rates of childhood deaths and respiratory diseases, highlighting the human cost of this environmental pollution, according to Punch.

Hundreds of firefighters are engaged in combating wildfires in Portugal and Greece, with Spain and Italy providing reinforcements to Portugal for a blaze that has been ongoing for over three days. In Thessaloniki, Greece, authorities have advised residents to stay indoors and close windows and doors due to the presence of toxic smoke, as the situation escalates.

A new study has linked exposure to second-hand smoke to deadly heart disease worldwide, according to Tribune Online. The research raises particular concern for sub-Saharan Africa, where the number of people exposed to second-hand smoke has nearly doubled since 1990. The findings highlight the growing public health burden of passive smoking, especially in regions where exposure rates are rising rapidly.

An inquiry has been ordered following a building fire in a city in northern India that resulted in the deaths of 15 people. Witnesses reported that individuals were seen jumping from windows to escape the flames, while rescue teams took action by breaking through a wall to assist those trapped inside.

A fast-moving wildfire in southern France has led to the evacuation of approximately 10,000 people, as it has consumed over 1,500 hectares of land. The situation remains critical as authorities respond to the emergency.

A global report released by the WHO and partners indicates that over 655 million people worldwide lack access to electricity, while nearly two billion depend on polluting fuels for cooking. This situation poses significant health risks and exacerbates existing inequalities, highlighting a potential global energy and health crisis.