August 2021 was marked by ongoing challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many countries experienced surges in cases due to the spread of the Delta variant, leading to renewed discussions about vaccination and public health measures. Governments and health organizations urged people to get vaccinated to help control the virus's spread. In addition to health concerns, August 2021 saw significant events in global politics and climate. The U.S. military completed its withdrawal from Afghanistan, ending a two-decade presence. Meanwhile, extreme weather events, including wildfires and hurricanes, highlighted the growing impact of climate change around the world.