The Czech Republic has experienced an unprecedented surge in temperatures, recording its warmest start to February in over a century.

According to the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (ČHMÚ), select stations saw an average temperature of 6.7°C in the first decade of February, a stark contrast to the nation’s coldest February on record in 1929, when temperatures plummeted to -15.4°C.

However, meteorologists urge caution when interpreting this average. It only includes stations with at least 100 years of data, typically located at lower altitudes. Newer stations, particularly those at higher elevations or in mountains, are excluded due to shorter data gaps or inconsistencies.

Despite this caveat, the past week has seen numerous daily temperature records shattered. Notably, a quarter of the 165 stations operational for at least 30 years saw new highs for February 9th, followed by a third setting records on Saturday, February 10th. Remarkably, three locations even climbed above 15°C.

Sunday night brought another wave of warmth, with the vast majority of stations recording their warmest February night ever. Temperatures mainly ranged between 6 and 11°C, even in traditionally frosty areas, ensuring no frost settled anywhere in the country.

The above-average daytime temperatures are set to continue this week, reaching highs of 12°C. However, a shift is expected by midweek, with nights turning freezing and raising the possibility of ice and frost in some areas.

This unusual warmth raises concerns about the potential impact on ecosystems and agriculture, particularly as it follows a record-breaking warm January. Continued monitoring and analysis are crucial to understand the broader implications of this extraordinary weather event.

People taking the European Sleeper night train from Amsterdam or Rotterdam will soon have two new destinations to choose from.

“We’re going to Dresden & Prague!” the company announced.

The Brussels-Amsterdam-Berlin night train will run to the Czech capital starting March 25.

“Along the way, it also stops in the romantic Dresden, the spectacular nature reserve of Saxon Switzerland, and in the beautiful Elbe valley,” the company said.

The night train departs from Amsterdam Central Station at 10:34 p.m. and arrives in Dresden at 8:29 a.m. and at Prague Main Station at 10:56 a.m. the following day.

Ticket prices start at 89 euros for a seat in a shared six-person compartment.

You can also book a Couchette compartment for six people for 99 euros per person or four people for 139 euros per person.

The most comfortable option is a sleeper compartment for three people at 169 euros per person. It includes a seating area, wash basin, and breakfast.

If you book fewer tickets than the number of couchettes or beds in the compartment, you may end up sharing with other passengers.

The European Sleeper also pointed out that it is an excellent option for attending the Euro 2024 matches in Berlin, where the Netherlands will be playing France in Leipzig on June 21 and Austria in Berlin on June 25.

European Affairs Minister Martin Dvořák (STAN) won’t appoint a commissioner for euro adoption, Prime Minister Petr Fiala of the Civic Democrats said on Tuesday evening after a special meeting of coalition government leaders.

Fiala stated that legislative issues related to the Czech Republic’s potential entry into the mechanism or the eurozone would be evaluated by the Legislative Council of the Government by October.

The previous day Mr. Dvořák had announced that he was naming economist Petr Zahradník in that position.

Other coalition parties criticized the minister for this move, as the government hadn’t agreed on filling the position of the national coordinator for euro introduction since 2017.

Government leaders the Civic Democrats are the only grouping in the five-party coalition opposed to the adoption of the single European currency at present.

“We have specific tasks, deadlines, and responsibilities. I was surprised that after 20 years, there are still no analyses of the euro adoption’s impact on the legal or constitutional order. Thanks to today’s government meeting results, this gap will be addressed,” Dvořák stated to ČTK.

He also mentioned on the social network X that Zahradník is an excellent expert, regardless of whether his role is called a commissioner or an advisor.

In a move to enhance gender representation in the Czech Republic’s corporate sector, the government has unveiled a draft law advocating a minimum of one-third female participation in the management of large companies.

The legislation emphasizes transparency and clear criteria in the selection process for board members, aiming to address the current disparity.

The proposed law targets five major companies and banks.

On average, women hold 32.2 percent of leadership positions across the EU, while in Czechia, it is only 21 percent.

It ranks 20th out of the 27 EU member states when it comes to representation of women in upper management and has long been criticised for failure to do anything to improve the situation.

The legislation aligns with the European directive from the previous year, compelling the Czech Republic to adopt regulations by December 28.

To meet the criteria, companies must have at least 40% women on supervisory and management boards or a combined 33% on boards and management boards.

The law specifically names major companies like ČEZ, Komerční banka, Moneta Money Bank, Philip Morris ČR, and Kofola Československo as subject to these regulations.

The proposed law sets a deadline for companies to achieve gender balance by mid-2026, requiring them to publish progress reports and candidate selection details. Non-compliance may result in fines, with oversight provided by relevant government bodies.

According to the accompanying documents on the government’s website, the law is being adopted in the most minimal form required for it to still comply with the EU directive.

The forthcoming Škoda ForCity Plus Praha 52T trams are set to revolutionize Prague’s public transportation.

Passengers can anticipate a range of new features, including an invisible yet vital one—a smart anti-collision system controlled by the cutting-edge Škoda supercomputer, HYPEX.

The trams boast a sleek, five-cell, completely low-floor design, marking a significant advancement in Prague’s public transit.

A team of designers from Škoda Group has introduced a host of innovations, such as an automatic passenger counting system, making the new trams a welcome addition to the city’s transportation landscape.

Smart Anti-Collision System

Among the novel features, the trams will be equipped with an advanced anti-collision system designed to monitor the area in front of the tram, alerting the driver to any potential obstacles.

If the driver fails to respond, the system, overseen by the Škoda supercomputer HYPEX, will automatically bring the tram to a halt.

This intelligent system employs dual LIDAR technology and HD cameras, combined with precise localization using offline recorded HD maps. The result is a virtual driving tunnel ensuring accurate obstacle detection, early warnings, minimal false positives, and timely activation of the emergency brake.

Enhancing Safety

The anti-collision system, utilizing LIDAR technology for 3D mapping within a range of 100 to 150 meters, aims to prevent major accidents and reduce damage to health and vehicles.

This innovation has been successfully tested in Finland, highlighting its potential to significantly enhance safety in Prague’s public transport system.

Future Developments

Škoda is actively collaborating with PPF Group to develop the first autonomous tram, slated for trial operation on the closed ring road in Pilsen in the coming years.

The Czech Parliament’s lower house on Friday approved an amendment to the country’s gun law that tightens requirements for owning a weapon more than a month after the worst mass killing in the nation’s history.

The legislation now goes before the Senate and if approved there must then be signed by President Petr Pavel before becoming law.

On Dec. 22, a lone shooter killed 14 people and wounded dozens before killing himself at a Charles University building in downtown Prague.

The assailant was a 24-year-old student who had a proclivity for firearms, with a license to own eight guns, including two long guns. Authorities said he had no criminal record and therefore did not attract the attention of authorities.

Parliamentary debate on the legislation had already begun before that shooting. Interior Minister Vit Rakusan has said it was hard to speculate whether the new rules would have prevented it if they had been in effect before it took place.

In the 200-seat lower house, lawmakers approved the changes in a 151-0 vote.

If approved by the Senate, where the ruling coalition government has a majority, and signed by President Petr Pavel, it would then be possible for authorities to seize a weapon from private owners for a preventive reason.

It also includes a requirement for businesses to report to police suspicious purchases of guns and ammunition and gives doctor access to databases to find out if their patients are gun owners.

Gun owners would have to undergo a medical check every five years, not every 10 years, as it is now.

In Czechia, 314,000 had a gun license at the end of 2022 and owned almost a million weapons of various types.

The Metronome Festival, set to captivate audiences from June 20 to 22 at the Prague Exhibition Centre, has added another star to its lineup: Michael Kiwanuka.

The London-based singer, with Ugandan roots, renowned for his appearances alongside Adele and the soulful backdrop of his song “Cold Little Heart” in the hit TV series Seven Lovers, is set to make a return to Prague.

Described by festival organizers as a humble artist unafraid of eccentric expressions, Kiwanuka draws inspiration from the soulful sounds of 1970s American soul.

“He is one of Britain’s most respected artists. Imagine Van Morrison meets Curtis Mayfield, and you’re there. His 2016 album ‘Love & Hate’ soared to the top spot in the UK, and in 2019, ‘Kiwanuka’ garnered unanimous rave reviews, hailed as a career-defining masterpiece by Mojo magazine. He is a true artist who pours every ounce of his heart and soul into his mesmerizing live performances. In short, Michael Kiwanuka is a genuine attraction,” attests Rob Cass, Abbey Road Studios Producer, exclusively for Metronome Prague 2024.

Born and raised in North London’s Muswell Hill, Michael Kiwanuka’s roots trace back to Ugandan parents who fled President Idi Amin’s regime, also known as the Butcher of Kampala.

Graduating with honors from Fortismere School in 2005, Kiwanuka was known for his friendly and humble demeanor, and a profound understanding of diverse musical genres.

Throughout his school years, he showcased his musical talents, playing bass and jazz guitar. Post-graduation, he continued his academic journey at the University of Westminster in London.

Metronome Festival 2024 promises attendees over eighty performances, with organizers guaranteeing surprises and a robust accompanying program.

The entire event will be enhanced by comfortable facilities, including an exceptional gastro zone.

In the wake of Allegro and Kaufland’s successful foray into the Czech market last year, another player is poised to make its mark in 2024.

Trendyol, a Turkish online marketplace, is gearing up to enter the Czech Republic.

According to statements made by Trendyol representatives during a press conference in Baku in December, the company is eyeing substantial expansion in Eastern and Southern Europe this year.

“In the first quarter of 2024, we will penetrate the Eastern European market, commencing with Romania, Greece, Hungary, and the Czech Republic, with plans to broaden our presence across the region,” shared Trendyol CEO Erdem Inan.

He emphasized, “Our objective is to facilitate our 300,000 dealers to thrive in Europe, the Middle East, and Gulf countries.”

After establishing roots in the initial countries, Trendyol’s expansion will extend to Poland, Bulgaria, and Slovakia. Inan disclosed his ambitious targets, stating, “By the end of 2024, our aim is to cultivate two million active customers in Eastern European markets, surpass four million orders, and achieve $350 million in sales.”

Founded in 2010 by entrepreneur Demet Mutlu in Turkey, Trendyol’s majority stake was acquired by Chinese conglomerate Alibaba in 2018, currently owning 86.5%.

With a valuation reaching $16.5 billion in 2021, equivalent to approximately CZK 372 billion, the company evolved from an online fashion marketplace to offering a diverse range of products.

From cosmetics and electronics to books and sports equipment, Trendyol has expanded its portfolio, even venturing into food delivery with Trendyol Go. The company also operates a fashion second-hand store called Dolap and introduced its own delivery network, Trendyol Express.

In the Czech market, Trendyol will join established foreign players such as Kaufland and Allegro, along with local entities like internet leader Alza and price comparison engine Heureka.

After an absence of 18 years, the well-known Carrefour chain is set to return to the Czech Republic, marking a significant development in its international strategy.

Partnering with JIP Retail, which operates 14 grocery stores across the country, Carrefour is gearing up to reintroduce its products to Czech customers next year.

“This marks another crucial milestone in Carrefour’s international strategy, with a specific focus on Eastern Europe,” states Patrick Lasfargues, CEO of Carrefour International Partnership, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to growth in the region.

Notably, Carrefour had a presence in the Czech market until 2006.

JIP Retail, expressing enthusiasm about the collaboration, aims to offer an affordable selection of quality products encompassing both food and non-food categories. Jan Plšek, President of JIP Retail, highlights the complementary nature of Carrefour’s product range to their existing assortment.

In a report by Kupi.cz, it is revealed that Carrefour’s offerings will span fresh and long-lasting food, including healthy, alternative, and organic products.

Additionally, the chain will provide a diverse range of basic drugstore items, cosmetics, cleaning products, pet food, and more.

With this exciting development, Czech consumers can look forward to the return of Carrefour, not just as a grocery store but as a one-stop destination for a comprehensive shopping experience.

Carrefour is the eighth-largest retailer in the world by revenue. It operates a chain of hypermarkets, groceries stores and convenience stores, which as of December 2021, comprises 13,894 stores in over 30 countries.

Czech glassmakers, celebrated for their craftsmanship with whistle, glass cutters, and engravers, have secured a remarkable success.

The timeless art of handmade glass production, still practiced by numerous glassworks and studios across the Czech Republic, has been officially recognized and listed on the UNESCO Intangible Heritage List.

The move was made at a UNESCO meeting currently taking place in Botswana.

The nomination was a collaborative effort prepared by six countries, including Czechia, France, Finland, Germany, Hungary, and Spain.

Milada Valečková, director of the Museum of Glass and Jewellery in Jablonec nad Nisou, emphasized, “This includes everything from the selection of glassmaking sand, the production of raw materials, to various techniques of manual glass processing, encompassing cutting, painting, and the crafting of winding beads.”

With this success, the Czech Republic now boasts nine entries on the prestigious list of intangible cultural heritage. Among these are the Hlinecko region masopust (carnival), the slovácký verbuňk dance, falconry, the South Bohemian Ride of the Kings tradition, glass-blown Christmas beads from the Podkrkonoší region (added in 2020), and the most recent addition in the previous year—rafting.

Valečková highlighted the pivotal role of Petr Nový, chief curator of the Jablonec Museum, for his knowledge and perseverance, ensuring a comprehensive representation of various processes within glass production.

The historic occasion was commemorated with the cutting of a large cake shaped like the national flag of Botswana, a fitting tribute to the location where the Czech Republic’s success was sealed.

The measures will see Czechs pay more taxes on alcohol and medicine, while businesses will also pay higher corporate taxes.

Czech President Petr Pavel has signed into law an economic package of dozens of measures introducing budget cuts and increased taxes designed to keep the ballooning budget deficit under control.

Pavel’s signature was the last step before the government proposal — which was approved by parliament — turned into law, meaning Czechs will pay more taxes on medicine and alcohol, in the country renowned for its beer.

Value-added tax will have two rates, 12% and 21%, instead of the current three — 10%, 15% and 21%.

Medicines will move from the 10% rate to 12%, while people will pay 21% VAT on their beloved beer in bars.

Businesses will also pay higher taxes: corporation tax will go up by two points to 21% while property tax for individuals will be also hiked by 1.8 times, as well as the tax on alcohol, tobacco and betting.

Prime Minister Petr Fiala previously said the austerity measures were necessary because the debt was rising at a “threatening” pace. Pavel has said the current situation is unsustainable.

According to the government, the measures should reduce the budget deficit by 97 billion Czech crowns (€3.96 billion) next year and for 2025 by 150 billion.

As a result, the deficit of 3.5% of the gross domestic product expected for this year should drop to 1.8% next year and to 1.2% in 2025.

The package is a compromise reached by Fiala’s five-party ruling coalition that took over after defeating populist Prime Minister Andrej Babiš and his centrist ANO movement in the 2021 parliamentary election.

The opposition condemned the changes and said it planned to take the matter to the Constitutional Court, the highest judicial power in the country, while the labour unions called for a day of protests and strikes on Monday.

The Prague Planetarium is undergoing an unprecedented renovation as it updates its outdated display system with cutting-edge LED Dome technology.

This technology will include 45 million LEDs distributed across the entire dome, making the Prague Planetarium the biggest and most contemporary in the world.

The new system is anticipated to last up to 25 years, with outstanding picture contrast and minimal upkeep expenses.

The new projection system, according to Jakub Rozehnal, head of the Prague Planetarium, will enable for a degree of quality and contrast not possible with traditional systems.

The expenditure includes new air conditioning for waste heat recovery, ductwork, and hall machinery, as well as an increased number of chairs.

The proposed rebuilding and modernization, which has received a CZK 250 million subsidy, is scheduled to take place from mid-May this year until spring next year.

During this time, visitors will have restricted access to certain areas of the dome. If work allows, the display in the foyer, the underground simulator, the gift store, and school workshops, including the one that operates the Planetum-1 satellite itself, will stay available.

With this technology, the Prague Planetarium will become the world’s biggest planetarium, beating comparable technology located in Dubai and Osaka, which have smaller domes.

Visitors will also have access to the Simulatorium, a brand new area in the subterranean planetarium.

This section includes four simulators: the Atlantis, L-39, Eagle, and Rover, as well as a spectacular light tunnel and a gallery of backlit nebula pictures, making it an enjoyable and peaceful spot to lose yourself in space and time.