Seabed Survey: A Chinese research vessel is heading to the Cook Islands for a joint survey of the seabed, with five Cook Islands scientists joining the team to help establish an environmental baseline. Weather Alert: Strong wind warnings remain in force across the Southern Cooks and parts of the Northern Cooks as a slow-moving tropical disturbance brings rain and showers. Services: A global Microsoft outage disrupted government email and services at local businesses; the public was urged to phone government offices about urgent matters. Climate Action: Cook Islands climate negotiator Charlene Hoff is leading talks for 39 small island states at COP31, while the Cook Islands joined the launch of a regional initiative seeking to mobilise more than US$1 billion for Pacific climate protection. Ocean Care: Te Ipukarea Society says marine spatial planning can help balance fishing, shipping and conservation. In Aitutaki, 60 students completed hands-on marine conservation and water-safety activities.