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Storm Wipha Triggers Fatal Boat Accident in Vietnam’s Halong Bay

  A tourist boat carrying 53 people, including five crew members, tragically capsized in Halong Bay on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. The incident occurred around 2 p.m. local time, shortly after Storm Wipha swept into the South China Sea, unleashing strong winds, torrential rain, and lightning. Rescue teams have recovered three bodies and successfully located 12 survivors, according to reports from local border guards. The nationalities of the passengers have not yet been disclosed, and search operations remain ongoing amid challenging weather conditions. Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site located approximately 200 kilometers northeast of Hanoi, is one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations, renowned for its limestone islands and scenic boat tours. The storm has also disrupted air travel, with several flights diverted or grounded at Noi Bai Airport due to adverse weather. Authorities continue to monitor Storm Wipha, which is expected to ma...

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Gas Prices in Ontario Surge to Highest Level Since August 2022

 

As the days grow warmer and people hit the roads for summer adventures, there’s one thing that’s not so hot: gas prices. Across Ontario, the price per litre of gasoline is expected to rise to approximately $1.79 this week, marking the highest gas price since August 2022. Here’s what’s fueling this surge:

  1. Carbon Tax Increase: The recent carbon tax hike is contributing to the rise in gas prices. As governments aim to reduce emissions, consumers are paying more at the pump.

  2. Geopolitical Tensions: Unrest in the Middle East has a ripple effect on oil prices. When tensions rise, so do the costs of crude oil, which directly impacts gas prices.

  3. Seasonal Fuel Blend Change: Semi-annually, the switch-over from winter to summer gasoline occurs. Summer blends are costlier due to chemical differences. While winter blends use butane for better ignition in cold weather, summer blends incorporate expensive alkylates to minimize environmental damage.

Energy analyst Dan McTeague predicts that gas prices will continue to climb throughout the summer, with the May 24 weekend marking the kickoff of high demand. Severe weather events and geopolitical factors also play a role in oil prices. However, McTeague suggests that consumers in the Greater Toronto Area explore nearby locations for slightly cheaper gas, as some stations have more competitive prices.

So, as you fill up your tank this summer, keep an eye on the rising numbers at the pump. And remember, while gas prices may be out of our control, our choices can still make a difference. 


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