Malmo braces for Eurovision final and fresh protest

Malmo braces for Eurovision final and fresh protest

Malmo is preparing for the Eurovision grand final, amidst security threats and protests over Israel’s participation. Bookmakers predict Croatia’s Baby Lasagna and Israel’s Eden Golan as top contenders to win. The event has drawn thousands of visitors to the city, with protests from both pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli groups. Russia was banned from Eurovision in 2022, while the 26 contestants in the final include representatives from various countries. The event is seen as a way to unite people and have a good time together.

Death toll from floods in Brazil hits 113 as rain returns

Death toll from floods in Brazil hits 113 as rain returns

The death toll from historic floods in Brazil’s southernmost state of Rio Grande do Sul reached 113, with 146 people still unaccounted for.

Today, ’s weather: Hot and windy

Today, ’s weather: Hot and windy

Fact: Temperatures on Friday are set to reach a scorching 33 degrees Celsius inland and on the north coast. Winds will also be stronger than usual on the coasts, reaching a maximum of six on the Beaufort scale.

Israel strikes Gaza city of Rafah after evacuation order

Israel strikes Gaza city of Rafah after evacuation order

Israel conducted airstrikes in Rafah after instructing Palestinians to evacuate parts of the city where over a million war-displaced people are sheltering. Ceasefire talks in Cairo are stalling, and Hamas warns that any Israeli operation in Rafah could jeopardize the truce negotiations. The evacuation order has sparked fears of a full-blown assault, with Hamas declaring readiness to defend Palestinians in Rafah. The UN and aid agencies have expressed concern over the humanitarian consequences of the evacuation. Israel has been threatening to launch incursions in Rafah, citing the presence of Hamas fighters and hostages. The US has urged Israel to pursue a hostage deal to avoid a military operation in Rafah.

Cyprus: Sunshine after the rain; temperature inland 25 C

Cyprus: Sunshine after the rain; temperature inland 25 C

Today, Easter Monday, the weather will start off fine but will become cloudier with local showers in the afternoon. Winds will be light and variable, reaching Force 3 on the Beaufort scale and gradually increasing to Force 4. Temperatures will be around 25 C in inland areas and western coasts, 26 C in other coastal areas, and around 15 C in the higher mountains.

Paphos winter swimmers dive into Easter tradition

Paphos winter swimmers dive into Easter tradition

The Paphos Winter Swimmers will continue their Easter tradition with aquatic games at the Kato Paphos Municipal Baths. The event, which has been successful in recent years, will include activities such as egg-and-spoon races, free-diving competitions, and bobbing for apples. Traditional land-based games like sack races, ‘ziziros’, and rope games will also be part of the festivities. Attendees can enjoy traditional Cypriot cheese pies called ‘flaounes’ and Easter eggs during the event.