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In the heart of the industrial Midwest, where the urban landscape rarely hints at the depths of the ocean, the Greater Cleveland Aquarium transforms into an arena celebrating some of the most mysterious creatures of nature. Fin Fest, an annual event running until August 5th, invites visitors to immerse themselves in the world of sharks and rays — predators that evoke both fascination and fear, yet whose fates hang in the balance due to human activity. This festival isn't just entertainment but also a call to action, combining an interactive experience with a serious message about protecting marine ecosystems.This year's Fin Fest offers visitors a unique opportunity to get up close with four species of sharks living in the spacious aquariums of the facility. From conversations with scuba divers who swim daily alongside these majestic creatures to feeding demonstrations — the event program is designed to dispel myths and showcase the role of sharks as key regulators of oceanic ecosystems. Equally notable are rays, whose graceful movements and resemblance to sharks highlight evolutionary links between these species. Guests can not only observe ray feedings but also touch them, feeling their unique textures firsthand."Sharks are not just predators; they are the top of the food chain in the ocean," notes Stephanie White, Director of the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, with a passion that reflects her dedication to conservation. "But their numbers are decreasing at an alarming rate. Bycatch, overfishing, the cruel practice of finning, habitat loss, and climate change are challenges we can overcome if we work together." According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, over a third of shark and ray species are threatened with extinction. This grim statistic underpins the mission of Fin Fest, which aims not only to entertain but also to raise awareness about the fragility of marine ecosystems. Aquarium curators, who work with these animals every day, share insider knowledge about their behavior and the challenges they face in the wild. Visitors learn how individual actions — from reducing plastic waste to supporting sustainable fishing — can have a global impact.The festival also adds a touch of fun to attract a broader audience. For example, anyone dressed in shark-themed attire automatically participates in a raffle for a gift basket — a small gesture that fosters a sense of community among visitors. Special events included in the regular ticket price range from children’s workshops to lectures on marine biodiversity, making Fin Fest accessible for all age groups.Behind the vibrant exhibits and interactive activities lies a deeper message. The Greater Cleveland Aquarium, located in a city far from oceanic expanses, reminds us that the fate of marine species depends on global responsibility. Fin Fest is not only a celebration but also a call for each of us to rethink our impact on the planet. While visitors watch the graceful movements of rays or listen to diver stories, they receive a reminder: the ocean is not an abstract distant element but a living system that needs our protection.

In the heart of the Great Lakes region, Lake Erie, the shallowest and perhaps most vulnerable of the five lakes, exhibits a striking change: from one of the coldest June temperatures to one of the hottest July temperatures. Within a few weeks, surface water temperatures rose four degrees above the mid-July average, reaching 24 °C — a level typically observed only at the end of the month. For scientists, local residents, and those dependent on this enormous water resource, the question arises: is this rapid warming a harbinger of an ecological crisis or merely another manifestation of the lake's changing nature? Sudden Warming: An Anomaly or Normal? This summer, Lake Erie became the scene of meteorological drama. In mid-June, its waters were the fifth coldest on record, but by early July, the temperature soared to the fourth warmest. According to James Kessler, a researcher physicist at the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), this increase is not unprecedented but is noteworthy. "Yes, it seems faster than usual, but we've seen similar occurrences before," Kessler explains in an interview with The New York Times. He attributes the sharp jump to a prolonged period of sunny weather and abnormally high air temperatures, including a heatwave at the end of June when thermometers in northeastern Ohio reached 35 °C. Currently, surface temperature levels in the lake have stabilized slightly below 24 °C, which is four degrees higher than the average over the past 30 years. Kessler suggests that the lake is approaching its summer peak, when water and air temperatures usually level out, typically from mid-July to mid-August. "We're close to the peak, but it's not the only high point," he adds. "Temperatures may fluctuate due to daily weather changes, but significant further warming isn't expected." Will 2025 Break the 2020 Record? If we look at historical data, 2020 remains the benchmark for extreme warming of Lake Erie. On July 10th of that year, surface temperatures reached a record 26.3 °C — the highest in modern observations. Could 2025 approach this threshold? Kessler is cautious in his forecasts. "Air temperature in the coming weeks will be a decisive factor," he says. "It's still difficult to say how this year will go down in history." Compared to other Great Lakes, Lake Erie stands out for its sensitivity. On Thursday, surface water temperatures were 19.8 °C in Lake Michigan, 21.5 °C in Lake Ontario, and 18.2 °C in Lake Huron. Lake Superior, the deepest and coldest, remained cool at 8.6 °C, which is average or even below average. "Erie reacts more quickly because of its shallowness," explains Kessler. "Its average depth is only 19 meters, making it vulnerable to short-term weather changes." Environmental Concerns: Algal Blooms and Beyond Although warm waters of Lake Erie may delight vacationers, they alarm ecologists. Temperatures above 25 °C create ideal conditions for harmful algal blooms, which typically intensify from July to October. This year, meteorologists predicted moderate blooms in the western part of the lake near Toledo, but Kessler notes that recent warming is unlikely to significantly alter this forecast. "The level of phosphorus and nitrogen in runoff plays a greater role than temperature," he emphasizes. However, there is some good news. New data suggest a decrease in phosphorus levels in the lake, which could reduce the severity of algal blooms in the long term. "This is cautious optimism," says Kessler. "But we must continue monitoring runoff and other factors." Looking Ahead Lake Erie, with its volatile character and sensitivity to climate change, remains a mirror of broader environmental trends. Its rapid warming this summer is not just a local anomaly but a reminder of how climate shifts impact fragile ecosystems. While scientists like Kessler continue to track temperatures and water quality, residents of the Great Lakes region prepare for a summer that could be among the hottest in history. Will 2025 become the new 2020? The answer depends on the weather in the coming weeks—and on how humanity manages the challenges facing our shared natural treasures.

During the week from July 14 to 20, 2025, in Ohio, characteristic mid-summer hot and humid weather is expected. The first days of the week will be clear and dry, but from Wednesday to Friday, there may be local thunderstorms. Over the weekend, stable sunny weather will return. Daytime temperatures will reach +33 °C, and nighttime temperatures will fluctuate between +20 °C and +23 °C.Weekly forecast:Monday, July 14, is expected to be sunny, hot, and dry. Humidity will be moderate, wind weak, from the southwest.Daytime temperature — up to +32 °C, nighttime — around +21 °C.Tuesday, July 15, will retain clear and cloudless weather. Winds will remain light, atmospheric pressure stable.Daytime temperature — up to +33 °C, at night — +22 °C.Wednesday, July 16, is expected to have variable cloudiness, with possible thunderstorms with short rainfall in the afternoon. Humidity will increase.Daytime temperature — up to +31 °C, nighttime — +22 °C.Thursday, July 17, forecasts gloomy weather with periodic thunderstorms, especially in the second half of the day.Daytime temperature — +30 °C, at night — +21 °C.Friday, July 18, will maintain cloudiness with a chance of rain, possible local storms.Daytime temperature — up to +29 °C, at night — +20 °C.Saturday, July 19, precipitation will cease, and partly sunny weather is expected. Winds are northwest moderate.Maximum temperature — +30 °C, nighttime — +19 °C.Sunday, July 20, Ohio will again be clear and dry, and atmospheric pressure will slightly increase.Daytime temperature — up to +31 °C, at night — +20 °C.Sunrise / sunset on Monday:Sunrise: 6:11 AMSunset: 8:54 PMSummary forecast in a shortened form:Monday: Sunny. | Maximum temperature: +32 °CTuesday: Clear, dry. | Maximum temperature: +33 °CWednesday: Thunderstorm after noon. | Maximum temperature: +31 °CThursday: Cloudy, rain. | Maximum temperature: +30 °CFriday: Possible storms. | Maximum temperature: +29 °CSaturday: Partly clear. | Maximum temperature: +30 °CSunday: Clear, dry. | Maximum temperature: +31 °CThroughout the week, residents of Ohio can expect typical July heat with occasional thunderstorms midweek. The weather will be favorable for outdoor activities on the weekend, but during the week, it is advisable to monitor weather alerts due to thunderstorms and rainfall.

On Monday afternoon, the northeastern part of Ohio experienced an unexpected natural event when a weak but noticeable EF-0 tornado swept through Medina County, leaving a trail of fallen trees and minor damages. The National Weather Service confirmed the event, noting that no tornado warning was issued — a fact that raised concerns among local residents and experts, as it highlights the unpredictability of weather even in regions rarely associated with such phenomena.The tornado, which touched down at 15:57 in the town of Chatham, lasted only two minutes but managed to travel 1.32 miles to Lafayette with a maximum wind speed of 81 miles per hour. Its path, only 40 yards wide, was relatively narrow but sufficient to leave a mark in the form of broken branches, damaged roofs of several houses, and a small unused pantry that sustained minor damages. Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported, providing relief but not complacency.This event, though minor in terms of destruction, serves as a warning sign for Ohio, where tornadoes are generally considered rare, but their frequency, according to meteorologists, could increase due to climate change. Insiders from the National Weather Service, who wished to remain anonymous, note that the lack of a tornado warning is partly explained by the rapid formation of this vortex, which was not detected by radar in real-time. This raises questions about the need to improve early warning systems, especially in rural counties like Medina, where population density is lower but vulnerability to sudden weather events remains high.Local residents who managed to speak with us describe the event as “shocking but not catastrophic.” “We heard a loud noise, like an approaching train,” recounts Mary Larson, a homeowner in Lafayette, whose roof suffered minor damages. “But it all happened so quickly that we didn’t even have time to be scared.” However, this incident prompts a broader discussion: are Ohio communities sufficiently prepared for such events, and are they ready to adapt to a changing climate, which forecasts suggest could bring more such surprises?EF-0 tornadoes, though the weakest on the Fujita scale, remind us that nature does not recognize boundaries between “safe” and “vulnerable” regions. While Medina is recovering from this short-lived shock, the event serves as a call to action: from investing in modern meteorological technologies to increasing community awareness about preparing for extreme weather conditions. As one local official noted, “today it was just trees, but tomorrow it could be something more.” Ohio has seemingly received a warning — ignoring it would be unwise.

Devastating floods that swept through central Texas last weekend left a tragic trail: at least 100 people died, including more than two dozen children, and search and rescue teams have been combing the destroyed region for the fifth consecutive day. This disaster, which local authorities call one of the worst in the state's history, shattered families, destroyed communities, and raised urgent questions about the effectiveness of the weather warning system.According to the Kerr County Sheriff's Office, as of Monday evening, the bodies of 84 individuals were recovered in the county, including 28 children. Considering reports from neighboring counties, the total number of fatalities exceeded 100, with 22 adults and 10 children still unidentified. These figures paint a horrifying picture of a region unprepared for the sudden fury of the Guadalupe River, which, according to official data, rose 29 feet in less than two hours in the town of Hunt, Texas.One of the most tragic losses was the disaster at the "Mystic" camp, a summer camp for girls located on the riverbank. Authorities confirmed the death of 27 people at the camp, and 11 individuals — 10 female campers and one caregiver — are still considered missing. The camp, known as a place where strong friendships were forged, has now become a symbol of nature’s ruthless power.“I thought it was just a thunderstorm and lightning,” Caroline Kutrona, the camp counselor, told CNN on Monday, her voice trembling with exhaustion and sorrow. “I didn’t realize how serious it was. The cabins were shaking, it was very loud, but we had experienced storms at Mystic before, and everything always ended well. I thought it would be the same this time.” Her words reflect the feelings of many survivors who say they were caught off guard by the speed and strength of the flooding.The National Weather Service issued flood warnings before the storm, but increasing voices — from survivors, local officials, and activists — express doubts about how these warnings were communicated to the public. According to sources familiar with the state’s emergency response protocols, who spoke on condition of anonymity, even experienced meteorologists did not expect such a rapid rise of the Guadalupe River. An investigation is now underway to determine whether delays or errors in warning transmissions contributed to the high number of casualties.President Donald Trump, speaking to journalists on Monday, called the floods “a horrific, terrible event” and announced plans to visit Texas on Friday to oversee recovery efforts. “You saw how Texas suffered enormous damage from something that became a big surprise late at night,” he said. “We will work with the governor and all Texas residents.” The White House has not yet disclosed details about the extent of federal aid, but the scale of destruction — destroyed homes, damaged infrastructure, and entire communities left homeless — indicates a lengthy and costly recovery process.Human losses are impossible to quantify. Families grapple with unimaginable grief, and the fate of the 11 missing persons from Mystic camp hangs over the region like a dark cloud. Search and rescue operations, reinforced by state and federal teams, continue to probe the marshy, debris-strewn banks of the Guadalupe. However, hope, though not lost, wanes with each passing hour.In response to the tragedy, Scripps News Group and Scripps Howard Fund have launched a fundraising campaign to support local organizations providing direct aid to those affected. Organizers assure that every dollar donated will go toward rebuilding lives in a region still reeling from the shock. This initiative, implemented in partnership with the nonprofit Scripps Howard Fund, underscores the importance of collective efforts in the face of such a massive disaster.While central Texas mourns its dead, a question remains open: could this catastrophe have been prevented? The answer, gradually emerging from the wreckage, will determine not only the state's recovery but also its preparedness for the next inevitable storm.

During the week from July 7 to 13, 2025, in Ohio, mainly hot and humid weather is forecasted, typical for mid-summer. At the beginning of the week, clear and sunny weather will persist, but in the middle and at the end of the week, periodic thunderstorms are likely. Daytime temperatures will vary from +30 °C to +34 °C, and nights will remain warm – around +20 °C. Weekly forecast: On Monday, July 7, Ohio will be sunny and hot, with no significant precipitation. Winds are light, coming from the southeast. Daytime temperatures will rise to +33 °C, and nighttime temperatures will decrease to +21 °C. On Tuesday, July 8, clear weather will remain, with moderate humidity. Comfortable nighttime temperatures will change to hot daytime temperatures. Daytime temperature will reach +34 °C, and at night – around +22 °C. On Wednesday, July 9, during the day, variable cloudiness is expected, with thunderstorms with short rainfall in the second half of the day. Daytime temperature – up to +32 °C, at night – +21 °C. On Thursday, July 10, local thunderstorms and rain are possible, especially closer to the evening. Wind will strengthen to 25 km/h. Daytime temperature – +31 °C, at night – +20 °C. On Friday, July 11, a cloudy weather with periodic rainfall is expected, with a possible thunderstorm. Daytime temperature – up to +30 °C, and at night – +20 °C. On Saturday, July 12, the sky will gradually clear up, and precipitation is unlikely. Maximum temperature – +31 °C, nighttime – +19 °C. On Sunday, July 13, clear and hot weather is forecasted, with light winds and stable atmospheric pressure. Daytime temperature will reach +32 °C, and at night – around +20 °C. Sunrise / sunset on Monday: Sunrise: 6:06 AMSunset: 8:58 PM Summary forecast in shortened form: Monday: Sunny. | Max temperature: +33 °CTuesday: Clear, hot. | Max temperature: +34 °CWednesday: Variable cloudiness, thunderstorms. | Max temperature: +32 °CThursday: Possible thunderstorms. | Max temperature: +31 °CFriday: Cloudy, rain. | Max temperature: +30 °CSaturday: Partially clear. | Max temperature: +31 °CSunday: Clear, dry. | Max temperature: +32 °C Throughout the week, Ohio will experience hot summer with high humidity and periodic thunderstorms in the middle of the week. It is advisable to consider weather changes when planning outdoor activities and to monitor weather alerts on days with rain likelihood.

Today, residents of eight northeastern Ohio counties will face an invisible but insidious enemy: deteriorating air quality caused by high ground-level ozone levels. The Northeast Ohio Area Coordinating Agency (NOACA) has issued an "Orange Code" warning for Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage, and Summit counties, which will be in effect from midnight Friday to midnight Saturday. This warning is not just a bureaucratic notification but a signal for vulnerable populations to take precautions to protect their health in conditions where the air we breathe may become harmful. Unlike thick smoke clouds from wildfires that have increasingly darkened the American sky in recent years, the current warning is related to ground-level ozone — a colorless gas formed when emissions from vehicles, industrial facilities, and everyday activities react under sunlight. Hot, humid days with light winds, typical of summer in Ohio, create ideal conditions for the accumulation of this pollutant. According to NOACA, such episodes occur several times each summer, especially in densely populated urban areas where the concentration of cars, factories, and even lawnmowers exacerbates the problem. Why is this important? For children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Saturday's ozone levels can cause difficulty breathing, chest pain, or worsening symptoms. Even healthy people may experience throat irritation or coughing after prolonged outdoor activities. "This is not a day to plan a marathon or mow the lawn," — noted a NOACA representative, urging the public to check the air quality index on airnow.gov. Insiders in environmental circles point out that the ground-level ozone issue in Ohio is part of a broader picture. Although the state has made significant progress in reducing emissions over the past few decades, urbanization and dependence on automobile transportation continue to fuel periodic pollution spikes. "We see how climate change is amplifying these episodes," — said one air quality expert who wished to remain anonymous. — "Hotter summers mean more days with an 'Orange Code,' and that’s a challenge for local communities." To reduce health impacts and help the region breathe easier, NOACA offers a range of practical steps: limit car trips, choose bicycles or public transportation, avoid idling engines, and postpone refueling until evening when sunlight activity decreases. The website gohiocommute.com/noaca provides additional resources for those wanting to make their travel more eco-friendly. "Every small step counts," — emphasized the agency’s representative. — "If we all reduce our contribution to pollution, we can return to cleaner air more quickly." For residents living in shaded suburbs of Cleveland or bustling Akron centers, Saturday will be a test of collective responsibility. The air quality warning is not only a reminder of our environment’s fragility but also a call to action. In a world where climate change increasingly dictates our daily choices, the decision between driving a car or walking can be a small but meaningful victory for community health.

While fireworks prepare to illuminate the night sky above Lake Erie, the weather forecast for July 4, 2025, promises sailors and beach lovers an ideal day to celebrate Independence Day. Sunny skies, a gentle breeze, and calm waters create a rare harmony on a lake renowned for its changing moods. However, as thousands of people prepare to go out on the water or lay out blankets on beaches from Avon Lake to Willoughby, the U.S. Coast Guard reminds everyone of the need for vigilance as part of Operation "Dry Water." In a region that has recently experienced tragedies such as the shooting at Euclid Beach, this holiday weekend is not only an opportunity for recreation but also a test of the community's responsibility for water safety. According to the National Weather Service in Cleveland, high pressure will dominate Lake Erie on July 4, providing sunny weather with temperatures ranging from 29 to 32 °C and comfortably low humidity. A southeast wind up to 10 knots, shifting to northeast during the day, will keep wave heights at 30 cm or below, creating perfect conditions for sailing, kayaking, and beach fun. The water temperature, which as of Thursday reached 67 °F near Cleveland, 79 °F near Toledo, and 74 °F near Erie, invites swimming, although meteorologists advise caution due to the cooler lake breeze. “This is one of those days when Lake Erie shows its best side,” noted meteorologist David Mitchell in an interview with Cleveland.com. However, the festive mood will not remain cloudless all weekend. On Saturday and Sunday, the southwest wind will strengthen to 10–15 knots, and wave heights will increase to 60 cm on Saturday and 90 cm on Sunday. Temperatures will reach up to 32 °C, and the heat index on Sunday may approach 38 °C due to increased humidity to 70 °F dew point. Meteorologists warn of an increasing likelihood of showers and thunderstorms on Sunday evening, especially in northwest Ohio, with a peak of precipitation on Monday when a cold front will bring scattered storms. “Lake Erie can quickly change its mood,” added Mitchell. “Sailors should watch the sky.” Water safety takes center stage The holiday excitement on Lake Erie, where over 400,000 boats are registered annually according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, is accompanied by increased patrols by the U.S. Coast Guard and local law enforcement. Operation “Dry Water,” a nationwide initiative aimed at combating boating under the influence, becomes especially relevant during the July 4 weekend. “Personal responsibility is key to safety,” said Senior Chief Casey Probert from the Great Lakes Sector. “Make sure you have enough fuel, charged batteries, and necessary equipment such as life jackets.” In 2024, according to the U.S. Coast Guard, there were 62 boating accidents related to alcohol in the Great Lakes region, resulting in 14 fatalities. Lake Erie, known for its rapid shift from calm to storm, demands particular caution. Probert emphasized that violating laws regarding boating under the influence can lead to fines up to $7,000 and even jail time. Additionally, the Coast Guard recommends checking weather conditions through local marinas, as official forecasts may not always accurately reflect local changes, especially in areas like Port Clinton or Put-in-Bay. Cultural and social context July 4 on Lake Erie is not just about leisure, but also about community togetherness. In Cleveland, where recent celebrations included the 100th anniversary of Hopkins Airport and the Ukrainian Festival in North Royalton, Independence Day is a moment of pride. Beaches such as Edgewater and Euclid Beach attract thousands of visitors, while yacht clubs from Avon Lake to Willoughby prepare for regattas and fireworks. However, recent incidents, like the shooting at Euclid Beach, remind us of the importance of vigilance. Local authorities have increased patrols, and surveillance cameras recently installed in Parma schools are part of a broader safety initiative in the region. For families like Marta Gonzalez’s from Parma, July 4 is a tradition. “We come every year to Euclid Beach with the kids,” she told WKYC. “But this year, we’ll be more cautious after what happened.” Sailors like Captain John Wilson from Port Clinton marina also prepare for the holiday. “The forecast looks great, but I always check the radar before heading out,” he said. “Lake Erie doesn’t forgive mistakes.” Looking to the future While Cleveland prepares for the holiday weekend, Lake Erie remains a symbol of natural beauty and challenges. The perfect weather on July 4 offers a rare opportunity to enjoy its tranquility, but meteorologists and the Coast Guard remind us that vigilance and preparation are key to safety. In a region that faces economic challenges, such as reduced research funding, and social shocks, like the fire in Medina, this holiday serves as a moment of unity and joy. From sailors rocking on the waves to families picnicking on the beaches, Lake Erie on July 4, 2025, promises to be a canvas for memories — provided the community remembers its responsibility.

During the week from June 30 to July 6, 2025, the state of Ohio is expected to experience variable summer weather with periods of heat, humidity, and thunderstorms. At the beginning of the week, dry and clear weather will prevail, but from Wednesday thunderstorms are possible, lasting until Friday. Over the weekend, stable warm weather will return. Daytime temperatures will fluctuate from +28 °C to +33 °C, nights will remain mild — around +19 °C. Weekly forecast: Monday, June 30, is expected to be sunny, dry, and hot. Wind is weak, coming from the south. Daytime temperature will rise to +32 °C, and at night, it will drop to +20 °C. Tuesday, July 1, will retain clear weather with increased humidity. Comfortable morning temperatures will give way to a hot day. Daytime temperature will reach +33 °C, and at night — around +21 °C. Wednesday, July 2, will be partly cloudy in the morning, with possible thunderstorms and short rains in the afternoon. Daytime temperature — up to +31 °C, at night — +20 °C. Thursday, July 3, forecasts are unstable weather with thunderstorms in the second half of the day. Winds will strengthen. Daytime temperature — +29 °C, at night — +19 °C. Friday, July 4, is expected to be cloudy with precipitation throughout the day, possible downpours. Daytime temperature — up to +28 °C, at night — about +19 °C. Saturday, July 5, will have clear skies, with precipitation ceasing. There will be changing clouds without rain. Maximum temperature — +30 °C, minimum — +18 °C. Sunday, July 6, will maintain sunny and pleasant weather. Winds are weak, atmospheric pressure stable. Daytime temperature will reach +31 °C, at night — +19 °C. Sunrise / sunset on Monday: Sunrise: 6:01 AMSunset: 9:01 PM Summary forecast in brief: Monday: Sunny, hot. | Max temperature: +32 °C Tuesday: Clear, high humidity. | Max temperature: +33 °C Wednesday: Partly cloudy, thunderstorms. | Max temperature: +31 °C Thursday: Thunderstorms. | Max temperature: +29 °C Friday: Cloudy, rain. | Max temperature: +28 °C Saturday: Variable cloudiness. | Max temperature: +30 °C Sunday: Sunny. | Max temperature: +31 °C The week in Ohio promises to be typical for July: hot, with short thunderstorms in the middle of the week. Over the weekend, weather conditions will improve, creating perfect conditions for outdoor recreation. It is recommended to monitor weather updates, especially on days with a high chance of precipitation.