More than 500 fires have been raging across Canadian provinces for nearly a month, spreading an orange-brown haze across eastern Canada and midwest and north-east regions of the US, leading to a suffocating smog extending to major American cities. Toronto and New York have been ranked as the most polluted urban areas affected by Canada’s wildfires, according to IQAir.com. The high concentration of particulate matter in the smoke has led to health officials distributing masks and advising people to stay indoors. As wildfires continue to burn through the rest of the season, until cooler temperatures, rain and snow arrive, further episodes of often very poor air quality are to be expected across parts of the US. On the other side of the planet, India’s annual monsoon arrived early, covering the entire country six days sooner than expected, but rainfall is 10% below average. The monsoon is crucial for India’s economy as it provides water for agriculture, replenishes reservoirs and aquifers, and offers relief from the summer heat. After the lower rainfall in June, the India Meteorological Department predicts average rainfall in July, which is essential for summer crops and rural incomes. This timely monsoon will alleviate concerns about agricultural output and benefit farmers who rely heavily on rain due to limited irrigation infrastructure. During El Niño years, India usually receives below-average rainfall. In the UK, an area of low pressure that was situated to the north has led to some windier conditions lately. Over the weekend this low pressure shifted eastwards across Scandinavia, and with higher pressure across Europe a strong westerly wind was created across the Baltic Sea on Sunday, lasting overnight. Gale-force wind warnings were issued across northern Germany and coastal parts of north-east Europe. Wind speeds of 35-45mph were observed widely, and gusts peaked at up to 60mph in some exposed coastal parts. Low pressure looks likely to remain across Scandinavia into the middle of this week, meaning there could be some further blustery conditions.