13 ° C
Profile

Month: February 2025

France in 2024: a year of heat, heavy rain and little sunshine

by: Elsa Carpenter
26/02/2025

2024 is turning out to be a rather unusual year in terms of weather. While it was one of the hottest years on record, it was also one of the wettest. On top of this, the sun failed to shine on much of the country for long stretches of 2024, resulting in a deficit of sunshine hours close to 10% over the 12 months.

According to national weather forecaster Météo-France, 2024 ranked as both the fourth hottest year since records began in 1900 and the seventh wettest year since 1959.

Indeed, precipitation was up by 15% on levels recorded in 2023, and rainfall was “abundant and consistent” across the country throughout the year. The Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, which covers the Alpes-Maritimes and the Var, experienced a huge 21% leap in rainfall last year, reversing a trend of drought and extended dry periods that has dogged the region in recent years. Nice, for example, had received an average year’s worth of rain by late September.

Wet, but also very warm

In 2024, there were twice as many warmer-than-average days as colder ones, and with an average temperature of 13.9°C, 2024 was only surpassed by 2022, 2023 and 2020 in terms of heat.

As in Monaco, the start of the year was extremely mild – February 2024 was the second warmest on record after that of 1990 – and spring-like conditions came early to much of the country. Temperatures exceeded 25°C across most of the country between early and mid-April, but the end of the month brought a devastating frost and hailstorms, not only to the north of France but also to the more southern regions.

See more: 2024 was one of the hottest years on record in Monaco

After a brief cooling in June, the temperature began to climb ever higher as summertime got going. The season was marked by two heatwaves, with the hottest day of the year coming on 11th August, when the mercury reached 41.3°C in Cazaux in the Gironde.

“The southeast of the country, particularly the Mediterranean coast, experienced prolonged heat throughout the summer, with notably warm nighttime temperatures,” notes the Météo-France report.

September brought another cooling period, before France transitioned into a wet and rather gloomy autumn, albeit warmer than seasonal norms.

It is worth noting that the average annual temperature in France last year was a full 2.2°C above pre-industrial levels. Temperatures in the PACA region were 1.6°C higher than the average recorded between 1991 and 2020.

According to the report, “Sunshine levels were mostly below average in 2024, except in January and August. February, spring and autumn were particularly dull.”

No region escaped the clouds, and all recorded a deficit of sunshine hours in 2024. On average, sunshine levels in 2024 were nearly 10% below the normal standard, making 2024 France’s least sunny year in nearly 30 years.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Photo by Monaco Life

Photos: Prince Albert and Princess Charlene receive warm welcome at new-look Monte-Carlo Crèche

by: Stephanie Horsman
26/02/2025
princess charlene Monte-Carlo Crèche

With their twins now in double digits, it has been some time since Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco had small children running around, but the Princely couple looked perfectly at ease as they met with the little ones enrolled at the recently renovated Monte-Carlo Crèche earlier this week.

On 24th February, Prince Albert and Princess Charlene were invited to tour the new-look facilities and meet with the infants and staff at the Monte-Carlo Crèche, which reopened in January after six months of extensive renovations designed to meet the needs of early childhood care while adhering to the latest sustainability and safety regulations.

Once through the doors of the bright and airy space, the Princely couple were greeted with wide-eyed curiosity and smiles from the youngest preschoolers, who ranged in age from just a few months to two years.

The Princess, clearly in her element among the little ones, was first met by a cute-as-a-button young man, who offered her a bouquet of flowers, which she knelt down to take from him. Princess Charlene was later seen sitting in a play area, interacting with the kids and gently holding one little girl’s finger as she took tentative steps. The sweet duo shared a high five in a video shared on social media by the Palais Princier de Monaco.

The Prince, no less up to the task, was seen smiling broadly as he shook hands with a tiny boy in one of the freshly renovated classrooms. The little guy, who stared up at him with wonder, gave the Prince cause to smile before moving on with the visit.

As part of the inauguration, the Princely couple took part in a blessing ceremony performed by Father Jean Ariel Bauza Salinas, before being guided through the upgraded establishment by Jean-Luc Magnani, the head of Monaco’s Early Childhood and Families Department.

Monaco Mayor Georges Marsan, who joined the Prince and Princess on the visit, remarked on the “remarkable coordination of the various Municipal Services throughout the project” in an informal speech about the renovations, before praising all those who made the works happen.

“It is important for the Municipal Council to continue our policy in favour of early childhood, which truly constitutes one of the pillars of all our action,” he said. “Helping families means participating in the sustainability of our unique social model. Being able to respond to their requests and expectations is a legitimate source of pride.”

The site is equipped to care for 36 children aged two months to two years, and the extensive refurbishment has enhanced comfort, safety, sustainability and accessibility, ensuring a nurturing environment for young children.

The redevelopment was overseen by François Lallemand, Monaco’s 5th Deputy Mayor and a trained architect, in collaboration with Monegasque architect Franck Bourgery. The project spanned 535m² across the ground and first floors, which together now constitute an up-to-date and functional space for both children and staff.

Plans are already underway for the renovation of an annex, which will be dedicated to older children. This project will see a reconfiguration of spaces to include an additional activity room, facilities adapted for individuals with reduced mobility, a laundry room, an isolation room and an expanded management office that can also function as a meeting space.

To see more photographs of the visit, click on the images below:

Read related:

In pictures: Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene take centre stage at charity gala in Courchevel

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Photos credit: Eric Mathon / Palais Princier de Monaco

UN biodiversity talks resume in Rome: Can the world finally fund conservation?

by: Cassandra Tanti
25/02/2025

The United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16) is underway in Rome, focusing on critical financial strategies to combat global biodiversity loss. The session follows the initial meeting in Cali, Colombia, last November, which concluded without consensus on key funding mechanisms.

A primary objective of the Rome talks is to finalise plans for mobilising $200 billion annually by 2030 to support biodiversity initiatives worldwide. This includes securing $20 billion per year by 2025 for developing nations, as stipulated in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework adopted in 2022. To date, only $383 million has been pledged, highlighting a significant shortfall in committed resources.

Delegates will also deliberate on the operationalization of the “Cali Fund,” established to ensure that companies profiting from genetic resources share benefits equitably. This mechanism aims to direct financial gains from industries such as pharmaceuticals and biotechnology back into conservation efforts, particularly benefiting Indigenous communities and biodiversity-rich developing countries.

The inclusion of Indigenous voices remains a pivotal aspect of the discussions. In Cali, a historic agreement was reached to create a subsidiary body that incorporates Indigenous peoples into future conservation decision-making processes, recognizing their vital role in safeguarding biodiversity.

As global wildlife populations have declined by an average of 73% over the past 50 years, the urgency for effective financial and strategic interventions has never been greater. The outcomes of the Rome session are anticipated to set the course for international biodiversity conservation efforts in the critical years ahead.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Photo credit: David Köhler, Unsplash

Record turnout at 2025 Monaco Employment Forum

by: Elsa Carpenter
25/02/2025
Monaco Employment Forum Monaco pour l'Emploi

Nearly 6,000 people from Monaco and beyond attended the 2025 Monaco Employment Forum, setting a new record and surpassing previous editions in scale and scope. As job opportunities in the Principality continue to grow, the event has become a key meeting point for companies looking to expand their teams and jobseekers eager to find new career paths and prospects.

The third edition of the Monaco Employment Forum, held at the Grimaldi Forum on Monday 24th February, was a resounding success. A total of 5,938 participants took part, connecting with around 100 Monaco-based companies representing a variety of sectors and industries.

This year’s event was the largest to date in both turnout and scope. From an expanded yachting sector and a newly introduced luxury industry zone to on-the-spot interviews with prospective employers, the forum provided jobseekers with direct access to company representatives, recruiters and HR teams, helping them learn more about available opportunities and make valuable connections.

See more: Hiring in Monaco: key takeaways from the 2025 Employment Forum

Speaking to Monaco Info following the forum, Christophe Robino, Monaco’s Minister of Social Affairs and Health, said, “Monaco plays a crucial role in employment for the Alpes-Maritimes, with job opportunities steadily growing at a rate of 4% per year. This expanding workforce is essential to the sustainability and development of businesses and the Principality’s economic model. The financial health of Monaco’s social and pension funds is closely linked to employment growth.”

He added, “All sectors are actively recruiting, with some experiencing particularly high demand. The temporary employment sector is seeking many candidates, as are hospitality, catering, digital services and finance. Monaco remains an attractive destination for workers due to its economic stability, quality working conditions, generous social benefits and higher-than-average salaries. Employee loyalty to Monegasque businesses is strong, offering long-term job security.”

The minister also addressed broader employment-related concerns, stating, “While traffic congestion at Monaco’s entry points is an increasing challenge, the forum did not specifically focus on remote work. However, teleworking is being adopted more widely, including for employees residing in Italy, thanks to new agreements. The government is also promoting carpooling and digital mobility solutions to ease transportation issues. Additionally, a housing charter was signed during the forum to secure accommodation for seasonal workers, and several Monegasque companies have already expressed interest in the initiative.”

The fourth edition of the Monaco Employment Forum, known as Monaco pour l’Emploi in French, is expected to take place in February 2026.

Monaco Life was there! Check out our Instagram reel of the event below:

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

Photo credit: Manuel Vitali / Monaco Communications Department

Pine processionary caterpillars: how to identify them and the dangers to be aware of

by: Stephanie Horsman
25/02/2025

All across the Riviera, nests of the pine processionary caterpillar are hatching. The young caterpillars, which are covered in toxic, irritating hairs, make a yearly appearance in the region just ahead of the start of spring, signaling a time of worry for many pet owners and hikers.

If you’ve spent any time wandering in the forests and parks of the south of France recently, you may well have noticed the nests of the pine processionary caterpillar. These silk cocoons, around the size of a melon, are distinctively white and candyfloss-like, and sit in the canopy of pines native to the region.

The pine processionary caterpillar is also native to the Mediterranean region, and has been observed in habitats ranging from France and Spain to Greece, Turkey, and North Africa. In recent years, the effects of climate change have allowed the caterpillar to spread its wings further still, with sightings of the caterpillars and nests as far north as Strasbourg.

They have been noted in Monaco too, although the government has taken action to limit their spread by attaching traps to affected trees.

Pine processionary caterpillars can grow up to 40mm long, with a striking orange-brown coloration accented by black bands on a furry body that makes them relatively easy to identify. Their name is derived from their unique method of movement. Once they leave their nests, they travel in single-file lines along pathways and open spaces.

The issue with the species is that the caterpillars are covered almost entirely in toxic hairs. Exposure to these fine, light-coloured bristles can cause significant irritation upon contact. In severe cases, exposure can be fatal.

For humans, direct exposure to the caterpillar’s bristles can result in a painful rash and severe eye irritation. In animals, particularly cats and dogs, symptoms include excessive drooling and tongue swelling that requires immediate veterinary attention. If access to medical care is delayed, applying ice or peppermint drops can help reduce swelling until professional help is available.

Dog owners should be particularly wary of these caterpillars. Given their natural curiosity, which can lead them to investigate the caterpillars up close, dogs that come into contact with the pine processionary caterpillar are at risk of experiencing serious allergic reactions, lesions, and, in extreme cases, loss of part of the tongue or even death.

If a pet comes into contact with processionary caterpillars and begins showing symptoms such as limb swelling or vomiting, immediate action is required. Vets warn against rubbing the affected area, as this can spread the toxic hairs further. Instead, the area should be rinsed thoroughly with water, directing the flow outward from the mouth so as to limit the risk of the hairs reaching the animal’s mouth. Pet owners should also wear gloves and a mask when handling their animal to avoid exposure themselves.

Following initial first aid, pet owners should contact their veterinarian or emergency services such as 3115 to assess the situation and determine if hospitalisation is necessary.

Efforts to control the caterpillar population in the south of France have been in place for over a decade, but they continue to be a persistent problem in the PACA region, particularly between early February and mid-March.

Read related:

Mimosa season is here, but not everyone can enjoy it

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

 

Photo credit: Rabiem, Flickr

Final act of Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series set for March

by: Niki Borisova
25/02/2025

At the start of March, the Primo Cup – Trophée UBS will return to the waters of the Principality for its 41st edition, bringing top international crews, the debut of the ClubSwan 28 and the final act of the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series. 

The Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM) will host the 2025 Primo Cup – Trophée UBS from 6th to 9th March. More than 450 sailors from around the world are expected to compete in the event, held in partnership with UBS and the Mairie de Monaco. The regatta will feature five one-design classes: J/70, Smeralda 888, ClubSwan 28, Longtze Premier and Cape 31.

Since its launch in 1985 by YCM President Prince Albert II, the Primo Cup has become a well-respected fixture in the European sailing calendar. This year, around 90 crews are set to race, with the J/70 class once again being the largest, fielding 45 teams. The event will also serve as the final stage of the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series 2024/25.

“The Primo Cup-UBS Trophy has long been viewed as a key event on the race calendar, its reputation drawing sailors from all over the world every year,” says YCM General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandri.

The 2025 edition will mark the official international debut of the ClubSwan 28, a new sportsboat from Finnish shipyard Nautor’s Swan (pictured above). The 8.5m vessel is designed for performance and ease of transport, featuring a carbon mast, a reinforced fibreglass hull and a lifting keel that eliminates the need for special transport permits. The Primo Cup has frequently served as a testing ground for new boat designs, and this launch continues that tradition.

The regatta will also bring the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series to a close. The J/70 fleet, led so far by YCM member Stefano Roberti, will compete in the final act of the 2024/25 season. First introduced in 2013, the Winter Series has become an important training opportunity for international teams ahead of major European and global events.

Racing will begin on 6th March with warm-up events from 2.30pm, followed by official races for all classes at noon on 7th March. The competition will continue on 8th and 9th March, starting at 11am each day, with the last possible warning signal scheduled for 3pm on the final day. A prize-giving ceremony will follow.

Weather conditions may influence the final schedule, but organisers anticipate a competitive weekend of sailing in Monaco’s famous waters.

Read related:

Trophée Virginie Hériot: Yacht Club de Monaco launches all-new J/70 regatta for women

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

 

Photo source: Yacht Club de Monaco