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As the flood waters recede, we see how the careful forecasting of Hurricane Harvey gave authorities and first responders hours to prepare for its arrival.

Last week, a chemical ‘haze’ saw 150 Brits needing hospital treatment. Symptoms included streaming eyes, sore throats and nausea. But its origins remain unclear and an investigation is underway.

Acid attacks are on the rise in London, and so what should you do if this happens? We also look to countries like India and Bangladesh who have managed to curb this type of violence.

Women in the world’s newest country, South Sudan, have a one in seven chance of dying in childbirth. But the next generation of trainee midwives is hoping to make it safer. For some, childbirth can be an incredibly uncomfortable experience. Is there a way we could manage pain better? Children in karate classes are taught how to manage the inevitable discomfort that comes with a punch. Can we change our perception of pain?

From the animal kingdom, we find out why flies can outsmart us and meet the real life Dr Doolittle, who serenades seals to learn about animal communication.

(Picture caption: Rescuers from Odessa, Texas make their way along Eldridge Parkway in the Energy Corridor of west Houston © Erich Schlegel/Getty Images)

The Science Hour was presented by Roland Pease with comments from Jonathan Amos, ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Science Correspondent

Producer: Graihagh Jackson