Winter

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Ukraine will make this a tough winter for Russia, warning that pressure on Moscow is mounting. The statement signals Kyiv intends to keep targeting Russian energy and military infrastructure through the cold months, aiming to strain Russia's economy and war effort while sustaining Western support for Ukraine.

Scientists and US media are raising alarms about a slow-moving, planetary-scale Kelvin wave in the Pacific making its way toward the California coast. The ocean phenomenon could raise sea levels by up to a foot as El Niño conditions keep warm water trapped along the coastline. Observers warn the combined effect could worsen coastal erosion and flooding risks for communities already exposed to rising seas and winter storms.

The New York Times reports that the current El Niño pattern is influencing storm activity on opposite sides of the United States. The climate phenomenon, marked by warmer Pacific Ocean waters, is altering jet stream behavior and steering weather systems, shaping storm tracks for both the West and East coasts this season.

A market indicator is flashing a warning ahead of the historically strong November-to-April stretch, when the stock market typically delivers its best gains of the year. The signal suggests the usual seasonal rally could fail to materialise this time, prompting investors to question whether to position for the usual winter boom or brace for weakness instead.

New reporting suggests soil biology could play a central role in reducing synthetic nitrogen inputs in Canadian winter wheat production. Researchers are examining how soil microbial communities affect nitrogen availability and uptake, with potential benefits for both crop yields and the environmental footprint of fertiliser use. The findings are of interest to farmers and agronomists seeking more sustainable cropping systems.

Scania and Prinoth are expanding their partnership to develop electric snow groomers, moving the slope-preparation machines away from diesel power. The collaboration builds on the two companies' existing work together and signals a push to cut emissions in winter sports and resort operations, an area where heavy machinery has been slow to electrify.

Russia is deploying fast attack drones as part of a new winter strategy against Ukraine, according to analysis by Boekestijn and De Wijk on BNR. The tactic is straining Ukrainian air defences, which must intercept large numbers of incoming drones. Observers are watching how Ukraine will adapt its defences as attacks intensify during the cold months.

A weekend nor'easter has left travel disruptions lingering, with stranded passengers saying they need to get home as delays and cancellations continue. The storm, which hit the northeastern United States, continues to affect flights, trains and road travel, leaving many working through rebooking options as conditions slowly improve.

Cross-country skiing (sci di fondo) is being widely searched and discussed in Italy, ranking among the top trending topics alongside sports coverage from La Gazzetta dello Sport, which is promoting its Festival dello Sport featuring guests such as Gian Piero Gasperini. The spike in interest suggests renewed attention to winter sports, though no specific event or result is confirmed by the available coverage.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul urged residents to stay home as a nor'easter moved through the state, bringing disruptive winter conditions. The warning came as officials braced for snow, strong winds and hazardous travel across the New York region.

Botanists are comparing the seasonal habits of two North American pitcher plants. Unlike Sarracenia leucophylla, which produces its best pitchers in late summer, Sarracenia oreophila puts out a burst of pitchers in spring. Those pitchers are now dying back as the plant prepares for winter dormancy, leaving smaller non-trap leaves called phyllodia at the base.

A Utah Olympic leader has passed away, and colleagues are remembering them for their dedication to the Olympic movement in the state. Tributes describe the person as someone who 'believed in the mission', highlighting their commitment to Utah's Olympic legacy, including its role hosting the 2002 Salt Lake Winter Games and ongoing Olympic ambitions.

Borussia Dortmund is preparing a winter transfer for a player who had also been a candidate for FC Köln, according to a report by Express. The report says the deal nearly fell through in Cologne's favour before Dortmund moved in. With the January window approaching, attention is turning to how the transfer battle between the two Bundesliga clubs will play out.

A winter storm warning is in effect across parts of the United States as an early-season system brings significant snowfall. Forecasters expect up to 8 inches of snow this week, with dangerous travel conditions likely in affected areas. Motorists are being urged to prepare vehicles and check road conditions before setting out as the storm moves through.

With the English county cricket season finished, cricket followers are turning their attention to a new edition of CountyCricketMatters, a regular discussion roundup for the sport's domestic game. It is a moment for reflection on the season just gone and a look ahead to the winter ahead, as fans of the county game keep the conversation going between seasons.

A powerful nor'easter is hitting New Hampshire, bringing severe winter weather to the region. The storm is drawing attention as residents and local media track its impact across the state, with conditions expected to disrupt travel and daily life in affected communities.

NHL players are taking part in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, ending a gap since 2014 and allowing stars like Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby to compete for their countries. Outlets are running explainers on which players made each national roster, with teams including Canada, the USA, Sweden and Finland drawing attention.

Detroit Tigers president of baseball operations Scott Harris held his end-of-season news conference, and the key takeaway is that fans should not expect a big-spending offseason despite the club's competitive position. Coverage of the remarks is circulating among baseball fans debating whether Detroit will invest in upgrades or stand largely pat this winter.

Gardeners are being reminded that autumn is the right time to plant spring-flowering bulbs such as tulips and daffodils. Horticulture guidance says bulbs need a period of cold soil over winter to bloom well, so planting now ensures strong color once spring arrives. Tips include choosing healthy bulbs, planting at the right depth, and picking well-drained spots. The seasonal advice is circulating widely as cooler weather sets in.

Apple TV is releasing 'The Last First,' a production depicting an extreme winter ascent of K2, the world's second-highest mountain. The item is being shared among Japanese-language television audiences, with interest centred on the mountain's notoriously harsh winter conditions and the climbers who attempt the rare feat of reaching its summit in that season.

Supplement brand Raw Nutrition and bodybuilder Sam Sulek have revealed a new Winterberry product series. The collaboration adds a seasonal-themed line to the company's range, continuing its partnership with the popular fitness personality. Details on pricing and availability have not been widely reported yet.

The American Medical Association is advising parents to stock four essential items in a home health kit for their children. The guidance encourages families to check their supplies and be ready to handle common childhood illnesses and minor injuries at home. The reminder fits into a broader push for household preparedness ahead of the season when colds, fevers and accidents become more frequent.