Climate Reality Check (Tuvalu): Ahead of COP31, leaders visiting Tuvalu will see the fallout of a 2024 marine heatwave that scientists say wiped out about 99.9% of the coral on one of its atolls, with sea-level rise already threatening the archipelago’s future. Pacific Climate Diplomacy: Nepal pushed its “Sagarmatha to the Sea” message at the UN, linking glacier melt to sea-level impacts for island states including Samoa. Ocean Life in Samoa: Researchers using baited underwater cameras off Apolima Island recorded an endangered leopard (zebra) shark for the first time in Samoan waters, showing how simple field deployments can expand local marine knowledge. Food & Farming Science (Fiji taro): A Pacific Community study found big differences in drought tolerance across seven Fijian taro varieties, pointing to candidates that hold up better under water stress. Health Watch (Samoa measles): Samoa’s measles outbreak response has led to preschool and daycare closures, with 314 suspected cases and three suspected deaths reported as testing continues. HIV Preparedness (Samoa): Samoa is stepping up HIV surveillance and readiness after Fiji’s national HIV emergency, citing precautionary planning tied to frequent flights between the countries. Governance & People (MFSA): Samoa’s Ministry of Family and Social Affairs welcomed three new ACEOs as it continues its institutional transition. Tech & Skills for Resilience: Pacific leaders highlighted practical “green growth” approaches like circular-economy training, makerspaces, and aquaponics as climate adaptation moves from talk to systems.