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.

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.

New York and New Jersey have declared states of emergency as a powerful Nor'easter storm moves through the region, forcing the cancellation of events and disrupting travel. Officials are urging residents to stay off the roads as heavy snow and strong winds batter the area, with crews working to keep roads clear and respond to weather-related incidents.

Forecasters are warning that a large 'hybrid storm' — combining winter and coastal storm characteristics — is expected to form over the United States. The system is drawing attention for its potential to bring heavy precipitation, strong winds and wintry conditions across parts of the country. Specific affected regions, timing and expected impacts have not yet been detailed.

Historically, the US stock market tends to post its strongest gains between November and April, a pattern known as the seasonal 'sell in May' trade. A closely watched indicator is now pointing against that usual boom, suggesting investors should brace for a weaker winter rally than the seasonal norm would imply.

New reporting highlights how soil biology could help Canadian winter wheat farmers use nitrogen more sustainably. Researchers point to the role of soil microorganisms in naturally supporting nutrient availability, which could reduce reliance on synthetic fertiliser while maintaining yields. The topic matters as agriculture faces pressure to cut fertiliser emissions and input costs.

Meteorologists are watching the polar vortex as it returns, raising questions about its influence on the coming winter season. The vortex, a large mass of cold, spinning air over the Arctic, can weaken or shift and push frigid air into mid-latitudes. Its strength and stability in the months ahead are seen as key factors shaping winter weather forecasts across North America, Europe and Asia.

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.

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.

A new map highlights which US cities are in the path of a Nor'Easter storm expected to hit this week. The Northeast-facing storm system is drawing attention as residents and travelers check whether their cities fall within the affected zone, with coastal and inland communities likely watching for updates on snow, wind and coastal flooding potential.

NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens hosted a community preparedness expo just as a nor'easter storm approached New York City. The event gave residents guidance on getting ready for severe winter weather, with the hospital system framing the timing as timely given the approaching storm. It reflects ongoing efforts by the public hospital network to help New Yorkers plan for weather emergencies.

Essentia Health is holding vaccine clinics ahead of the respiratory virus season, making flu and other routine immunisations available to patients in the communities it serves. The health system is encouraging people to get vaccinated early, before case numbers of respiratory illnesses rise during the fall and winter months.