Czech news in brief for April 27: Saturday's top headlines

After a prolonged spell of cold weather in Central Europe, temperatures are gradually rising as sunny skies prevail. A high-pressure system is bringing warm air from the south, promising several days of fair weather. Despite recent precipitation, a rapid onset of drought is anticipated, especially in southern Bohemia and parts of Moravia. Rainfall is expected later next week. Episodes of morning frost are subsiding, offering relief to damaged vegetation. The forecast for the coming days includes partly cloudy skies, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 27 degrees Celsius.

The Czech national ice hockey team triumphed 4-1 over Slovakia in Bratislava, securing their sixth consecutive win in preparation for the World Championship in Prague. Petr Kodýtek's two goals, including one during a power play, led the victory. David Špaček, Ondřej Kaše, and Matyáš Kantner also showcased their skills, with Špaček netting his first goal. The win sets a promising tone as the Czechs gear up to face Finland in the championship opener on May 10.

The Czech Directorate of Roads and Highways (ŘSD) has begun installing signs prohibiting trucks from overtaking vehicles on the D1 highway. This marks the second phase, covering sections between kilometers 21-90 and 112-141. Effective from June, the ban extends from kilometer 21 to 230. Vehicles over 3.5 tons must adhere to the regulation, which covers two-lane portions of the D1 highway. The initiative aims to ensure smooth traffic flow, with penalties of up to CZK 5,500 for violations.

Czech tennis star Jiří Lehečka kicked off the Madrid Open with a victory, defeating Hamad Medjedović 7-5, 6-4 in the tournament's second round. Despite recent back issues and a month-long hiatus, the Czech player, ranked 31st globally, showcased his prowess against last year's NextGen tournament winner. Lehečka's next opponent will be Thiago Monteiro from Brazil, ranked 118 in ATP standings.

Renowned Czech historian Robert Kvaček, celebrated for his contributions to post-World War II historical scholarship, has passed away at the age of 91. Specializing in diplomatic and cultural history, he was esteemed both domestically and internationally. Despite facing restrictions during the normalization era, Kvaček's dedication to education remained unwavering. Notable works include biographies of Czechoslovak President Emil Hácha and General Alois Eliáš. Recognized for his achievements, he received honors such as the First Class Medal for Merit from President Miloš Zeman in 2021.

The Czech Republic's civilian counter-intelligence service (BIS) has issued a warning on X regarding a fraudulent document seeking to extort money. The document impersonates the fictitious Central Office for Combating Crime in Information and Communication Technologies. Notably, it bears the BIS emblem alongside a French police stamp, and its text displays AI translation indications. BIS advises refraining from any response to such deceitful communications.

The Czech Republic continues to seek EU backing for limiting Russian diplomats' movement in Schengen area. Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský discussed the matter with Hungarian counterpart Péter Szijjártó and presented the proposal at an EU foreign ministers' meeting in Luxembourg. The proposal aims to require Russian diplomats to obtain visas permitting movement solely within host countries, not across Schengen. Lipavský emphasized the need to curtail espionage activities under diplomatic guise.

Police in Pilsen evacuated and searched train and bus stations following a report of suspicious luggage, but no explosive device was found. Authorities, including K9 units, halted traffic and conducted inspections after receiving the report. Czech Railways confirmed the incident at the main station. Fortunately, security measures concluded without incident, allowing passengers to resume travel.

Renata Zachová has made history by becoming the first female Czech European judo champion. In the women's under-63-kilogram final, she secured victory over Joanne van Lieshoutova from the Netherlands with an ipon, clinching the coveted title. Zachová, 23, displayed exceptional skill throughout the tournament in Zagreb, defeating formidable opponents on her way to victory. Her triumph marks a significant achievement for Czech judo, ending a twenty-year drought at the European Championships.

Czech heating plants saw a decrease in heat delivery over the past winter season, attributed to warm weather. Nationally, consumption dropped by five to 15 percent year-on-year, with households also economizing amidst rising energy costs from the previous year. The Czech winter season, starting as late as October in some cities, was the warmest in over 60 years. Despite recent cold spells, the amount of heat delivered remains low. Final assessments are pending until the season concludes at the end of May.