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5 Things to Know Today (Oct. 1): Minimum Wage Hike, Cooler U.S. Inflation, Oil Below $100

  Thursday October 1, 2026 A new quarter, a higher minimum wage in Ontario and a softer inflation read south of the border. Here are the five things that matter to your wallet today. 1 Ontario's minimum wage rises to $17.95 today Ontario's general minimum wage climbs 35 cents, from $17.60 to $17.95 an hour, as of October 1 — a roughly 2% bump tied to Ontario's CPI. The student rate goes to $16.90 (from $16.60) and the homeworker rate to $19.70. A full-time worker at 40 hours a week earns about $718 a week before deductions. Federally regulated workers already have an $18.15 floor, which has applied since April 1. What it means for you: If you pay anyone by the hour — a cleaner, a part-time helper, a seasonal worker — hours worked from today forward must be paid at no less than $17.95, even if the pay period started in September. Workers should check their next paycheque. 2 Cooler U.S. inflation eases the pressure on rate hikes The Fed's preferred inflation gauge came i...

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Storm Éowyn: Ireland Faces Record Winds and Widespread Disruptions

 

Ireland was recently battered by the powerful and destructive Storm Éowyn, which brought record-breaking winds surpassing 180 km/h. The storm, named by weather authorities, caused widespread damage and disruptions across the country.

Record-breaking Winds and Damage

On January 24, 2025, Ireland experienced wind gusts of up to 183 km/h (114 mph) in County Galway, breaking an 80-year-old record. The storm caused unprecedented damage to the power network, leaving over 715,000 homes and businesses without electricity. Schools, public transportation, and hundreds of flights were canceled as authorities issued a rare "red" weather warning, indicating danger to life.

Impact on Daily Life

The severe weather forced people to stay indoors, with streets left deserted during the typical morning rush hour. The storm also brought waves up to 12 meters high, posing a risk of coastal flooding in low-lying areas. The Irish Electricity Supply Board described the damage as "unprecedented, widespread, and extensive," with many areas still without power.

Climate Change and Future Storms

Scientists have noted that while it is challenging to pinpoint the exact influence of climate change on individual storms, the increasing intensity of such weather events is consistent with a warming atmosphere. As the climate continues to warm, storms like Éowyn are expected to become even more intense, leading to greater damages.

Conclusion

Storm Éowyn has left a significant mark on Ireland, highlighting the need for preparedness and resilience in the face of increasingly severe weather events. As the country begins to recover, the focus will be on restoring power and ensuring the safety of all residents.



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