BBC Weather

A new BBC Global Story episode examines why the expected El Niño of 2026 is raising alarm among climate scientists. The discussion focuses on how the warming of Pacific Ocean surface waters could drive extreme weather worldwide, including heatwaves, droughts and flooding, and why its arrival after recent record global temperatures has researchers particularly concerned.

The Bahrain Grand Prix is being held at Malaysia's Sepang International Circuit, with qualifying and race coverage drawing attention across major outlets. Live blogs from The Guardian and schedule guides from the BBC are tracking UK times and weather, while PlanetF1 asks who is best set for success at the flowing, storm-prone track. Formula 1 coverage also notes Kimi Antonelli saying George Russell has momentum heading into the weekend.

A rare tornado has swept through a small town in Australia, causing damage that is being widely reported. Footage shared by BBC News shows the funnel whipping through the community, an unusual event for the country. Weather watchers are discussing how uncommon tornadoes are in Australia and the impact on residents.

BBC World Service's The Climate Question podcast is examining whether the planet is approaching a 'point of no return' on climate change. The episode is drawing large audiences globally, reflecting continued public concern about tipping points such as ice sheet collapse and ecosystem loss, and how close scientists believe the world may be to irreversible warming thresholds.

A cold snap is expected to reach the UK this week, with forecasters warning that temperatures will fall noticeably as autumn conditions take hold. BBC Weather says the drop will bring a clear seasonal shift after recent milder weather. People are being advised to prepare for cooler mornings and evenings as the chill settles in.