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Europe Scorched by Record Heatwave: France and Italy Take Emergency Measures

As a blistering heatwave tightens its grip on Europe, countries are scrambling to protect citizens from soaring temperatures and mounting health risks. France has shuttered over 1,350 schools  and closed the top floor of the Eiffel Tower as temperatures surged past 40°C (104°F)  in several regions. Sixteen French departments are now under the highest heat alert, with authorities urging people to stay hydrated and indoors during peak hours. Meanwhile, Italy has imposed restrictions on outdoor work , particularly in agriculture and construction, during the hottest parts of the day. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice are under red alerts, with hospitals reporting a spike in heat-related illnesses. The Mediterranean Sea has also hit record highs, with waters in Spain’s Balearic Sea reaching 30°C , up to 6 degrees above average. Scientists warn that Europe—already warming at twice the global average —is facing increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. New ...

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Condo market slump: GTA projects cancelled amid low demand


According to a report released today, The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is experiencing a slowdown in condominium sales, with builders shelving dozens of new condo projects due to low sales. The number of new condominiums started construction in the GTA has hit a 10-year low of 1,798 units, down 72% from the second quarter of 2022.


The report also suggests that rising interest rates and market uncertainty have contributed to the decline in sales. Urbanation’s Q3-2023 Condominium Market Survey reveals that the number of condos sold in the Toronto region failed to reach the 3,000 mark, with only 2,664 new condo units sold throughout the GTA during the third quarter of this year .


The report attributed the surge in cancellations to a combination of factors, including rising construction costs, supply chain disruptions, labour shortages, financing challenges, and changing consumer preferences. Urbanation's president, Shaun Hildebrand, said that the GTA condo market is undergoing a "major correction" and that developers are facing "unprecedented headwinds" in bringing their projects to completion.




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