Global Photos: Evacuations, Protests, Heatwave, and Hajj
Global Photos: Evacuations, Protests, Heatwave, Hajj

Global Photo Roundup: Evacuations, Protests, and Heatwaves

The Guardian's picture editors have selected a series of powerful images from around the world, capturing moments of crisis, celebration, and daily life.

California Evacuation Zone

In Anaheim, California, a police checkpoint enforces a road closure at an evacuation zone boundary. Officials ordered about 50,000 residents to evacuate their homes in Garden Grove after a tank containing methyl methacrylate overheated. The order has since been lifted for some residents after temperatures inside the tank fell, eliminating the risk of a catastrophic explosion.

Immigration Protests in Newark

In Newark, New Jersey, federal immigration officers clashed with protesters outside a migrant detention centre where a hunger strike is under way. The demonstration highlights ongoing tensions over immigration policies.

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Sarkozy Appeal Trial in Paris

Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy arrived at the Palais de Justice courthouse for his appeal trial. He faces charges of seeking Libyan financing for his 2007 election campaign in exchange for helping improve Tripoli's image after a deadly bombing.

Flooded Goldmine Cave Rescue in Laos

In Xaysomboun, Laos, members of a Thai volunteer rescue team joined a mission to free seven Lao men trapped in a flooded goldmine cave since May 19. Heavy rain caused a flash flood and landslide, blocking the subterranean entrance.

Starbucks Apology in Seoul

South Korea's Shinsegae Group chairman, Chung Yong-jin, bowed in a public apology over Starbucks' 'Tank Day' campaign, which coincided with the anniversary of the 18 May Gwangju uprising. The campaign aimed to promote a large tumbler called a 'tank,' but drew criticism for insensitivity.

Memorial Day Observance in Arlington

In Arlington, Virginia, a guest was silhouetted by candles lighting the Memorial Amphitheater during the Freedom 250 National Memorial Day Observance, an evening of stories and service.

UK Prime Minister Visits Nursery

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited Acorn nursery in Brighton, East Sussex, to announce measures supporting parents and families with childcare costs.

Heatwave Across Europe

In London, a woman shielded herself from the sun with an umbrella during a heatwave. Similarly, in Milan, people used umbrellas for shade near the cathedral. In Taipei, pedestrians crossed the street under umbrellas as temperatures soared, with heat alerts issued for eight cities and counties, including a red alert for Tainan where temperatures exceeded 38°C for three consecutive days.

Hajj Pilgrimage in Mecca

Muslim pilgrims left after offering noon prayers at Namirah mosque during the annual Hajj pilgrimage on the plain of Arafat, near the holy city of Mecca.

Glacier Collapse Aftermath in Switzerland

A drone view showed a few remaining houses surrounded by the Lonza River in Blatten, Switzerland, nearly a year after a huge rock and ice slide triggered by the collapse of the Birch glacier destroyed much of the village.

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