Heat, Coral, and Sahara Sand
The hot winds from the Sahara are back, carrying with them a wisp of sand that veils the sky, creating magnificent sunsets. The heat will remain intense in South Florida over the next few days, with heat index readings reaching up to 110 ˚F (43 ˚C). Exercise caution before planning any outdoor activities.
Sea temperatures are beginning to reach levels that are dangerous for corals: the powerful El Niño is bringing additional heat, even though its presence offers hope for a milder hurricane season.
But for the corals and scientists, the alarm has already been sounded: this summer, the waters could become even warmer than in 2023, a disastrous year for Florida’s corals. The Coral Reef Foundation has already relocated 246 corals to onshore facilities. The group Reef Renewal USA relocated 400 corals on July 7.
These efforts will continue in the coming weeks, while the largest corals are left in the ocean, in the hope that they will have time to reproduce by early August—if they manage to survive until then. The organizations say they are better prepared than in 2023 to save large coral colonies this summer.
Latest news on the FIFA World Cup
Erling Haaland’s Norwegian team has been based in Fort Lauderdale since Monday, July 6, in preparation for its highly anticipated quarterfinal match against England on Saturday at Hard Rock Stadium. They are training at Inter Miami Stadium (formerly Chase Stadium). The team was originally scheduled to stay at the Dalmar Hotel but moved the day after their arrival to another hotel—kept under wraps—which is reportedly quieter and closer to the ocean.
In other breaking news: the controversies surrounding Argentina’s influence during this World Cup continue. The FBI is now investigating possible fraudulent investments and money laundering by the Argentine Football Association and its president, Claudio Tapia, involving $300 million invested in banks and companies in South Florida—and possibly shell offices.
Tapia is also facing charges in Argentina for various tax evasion offenses totaling $12.7 million. As a special exception, he was granted permission to travel to the United States for the World Cup, where he is currently present.
Translated by Deepl
