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Scorch and Surge: Ontario Faces Sweltering Heat and Successive Storm Threats

Ontario is bracing for a stretch of intense weather as Environment Canada issues heat warnings across multiple regions, paired with a forecast of multi-day storm risks. Temperatures are expected to soar past 30°C, with humidex values pushing conditions into the high 30s and low 40s. The sweltering heat poses increased risks to vulnerable populations, including seniors, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Meteorologists warn that the heat won’t come alone. A line of unstable air sweeping across southern and central Ontario is expected to fuel daily thunderstorms through the weekend and into next week. These storms could bring heavy downpours, damaging winds, and isolated hail, further complicating the forecast. Officials are urging residents to take precautions: stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak hours, and check in on neighbours who may be at risk. Pet owners are also reminded to avoid walking animals during the hottest parts of the day. The co...

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Israel Agrees to Gaza Ceasefire Framework: Now Awaiting Hamas’ Decision

 


In a significant development, Israel has essentially endorsed a framework for a proposed Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal. The ball is now in Hamas’ court as they must decide whether to agree to it. A senior U.S. administration official revealed this information on Saturday, just a day before talks are scheduled to resume in Egypt.

The proposed framework includes a six-week ceasefire, which could provide much-needed relief to the conflict-weary region. Additionally, Hamas would be required to release hostages considered vulnerable, including the sick, wounded, elderly, and women. The Israelis have “more or less accepted” this proposal, according to the official. However, the final decision rests with Hamas, and efforts are ongoing to encourage their cooperation.

International mediators have been working tirelessly to broker this deal before the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan (around March 10). If successful, the agreement would allow aid to reach hundreds of thousands of desperate Palestinians in northern Gaza. These individuals are currently under the threat of famine due to the ongoing conflict.

In response to the dire situation, U.S. military planes have initiated airdrops of thousands of meals into Gaza. Jordan and Egypt have also conducted similar airdrops. However, aid groups emphasize that airdrops should be a last resort. Instead, they advocate for the opening of other crossings into Gaza and the removal of obstacles at the few existing ones.

The European Union’s diplomatic service has expressed concern over the chaos surrounding an aid convoy in Gaza. Many of the hundreds of Palestinians killed or wounded during the incident were hit by Israeli army fire. The EU calls for an international investigation, attributing the crisis to "restrictions imposed by the Israeli army and obstructions by violent extremists to the supply of humanitarian aid".

As the talks continue, the world watches with bated breath, hoping for a breakthrough that will alleviate the suffering of those caught in the crossfire.


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