How the autumn climbing season turned deadly in the Himalayas

This week, while northern China is experiencing its first taste of autumn with heavy rain and cooler temperatures, south-east China is sweltering in summer-like heat, with temperatures nearing 40C. This unusual weather pattern highlights the stark contrast in climate across the country, as a cold air mass in the north clashes with warm conditions in the south. Understanding these shifts is crucial as they can impact agriculture, energy consumption, and daily life for millions.

Helen Goh's pumpkin cheesecake recipe is a delightful autumn treat that combines creamy texture with a nutty crunch from maple pecan brittle. By using roasted butternut squash instead of tinned pumpkin, Goh enhances the flavor and richness of the cheesecake, making it a perfect dessert for the season. This recipe not only showcases the beauty of fall ingredients but also encourages home bakers to elevate their desserts with fresh produce, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for gatherings.

A ceasefire in Gaza is holding as Hamas prepares to release Israeli hostages, marking a significant step in a peace deal advocated by President Donald Trump. This development is crucial as it paves the way for a summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, where key leaders, including Egypt's Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, will discuss further resolutions. While the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners is also on the table, many issues remain unresolved, highlighting the complexities of achieving lasting peace in the region.

Erling Haaland led Norway to a decisive victory over Israel, scoring three goals and bringing his team closer to World Cup qualification. This match was notable not only for the impressive performance on the field but also for the pro-Palestinian protest that took place, highlighting the intersection of sports and social issues. The win is significant as it boosts Norway's chances in the World Cup qualifiers, making it a moment of pride for fans.

Microplastics have infiltrated various parts of the human body, including blood, placentas, and even the brain, raising concerns about their potential effects on health. Recent studies suggest that our brains alone could contain significant amounts of these particles, prompting scientists to investigate their implications. Understanding how microplastics interact with our bodies is crucial as it could reshape our knowledge of health and environmental impacts, making this a pressing issue for both science and public health.

The far-right movements in Europe, inspired by Donald Trump's recent call to label antifa as a terrorist organization, are pushing for similar designations in countries like the Netherlands and Hungary. A draft resolution, reportedly supported by 79 Members of the European Parliament from 20 different nations, indicates a growing trend among European nationalists to adopt Trump's rhetoric. This development is significant as it reflects the increasing influence of U.S. political discourse on European politics and raises concerns about the implications for civil liberties and political dissent.

The recent opening of the Museum of West African Art in Nigeria was meant to celebrate the return of the Benin bronzes, but instead, visitors are greeted with clay replicas instead of the original artefacts. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges in the restitution of cultural heritage, as the absence of the actual bronzes raises questions about the effectiveness of efforts to reclaim looted treasures. It matters because it reflects the broader struggle for cultural identity and justice in post-colonial societies.

In a world where dating apps like Hinge are supposed to help people connect, a new phenomenon called 'chatfishing' is complicating the search for love. Users are finding themselves misled by computer-generated personas that can charm and deceive, making genuine connections harder to achieve. This trend highlights the challenges of navigating modern dating, where authenticity is increasingly at risk, leaving many feeling frustrated and disillusioned.