News & Reports

A significant winter storm sweeping the Northeastern U.S. is causing widespread flight cancellations and delays, resulting in cascading impacts through the peak holiday travel period. Weather-related disruptions began with heavy snow, wind, and low visibility across states from New York and New Jersey into New England and the Mid-Atlantic, prompting airlines to cancel hundreds of flights. The storm’s progression continues to affect operations, and impacts are ongoing today with further disruption likely through the next 24-48 hours.   Advice: * Expect substantial delays and cancellations, and reconfirm flight status with your airline before departing for the airport, and monitor changes frequently; schedules remain fluid. * If traveling through storm-affected hubs, allow extra time for check-in, security, and boarding, and prepare for longer layovers. * Consider flexible rebooking options or alternate itineraries (e.g., travel via less affected airports) where possible. * Pack essential items (medications, phone chargers, food, water) in carry-on luggage in case of extended delays. * Monitor weather advisories and airport alerts for real-time storm impacts and guidance on travel conditions.  

A wave of flooding is affecting Malaysia’s Terengganu state, prompting the evacuation of at least 468 people from 116 families to temporary relief centres. While floodwaters have receded in some locations and several roads have reopened, river levels at multiple monitoring stations remain above alert thresholds. Authorities warn that conditions remain fluid, and further localized flooding is possible over the next 72 hours, particularly if rainfall increases.   Advice:

• If in severely affected areas, follow local emergency instructions and evacuation orders immediately when issued.
• Adjust your travel plans, check flight and public transport status often, drive carefully, and on safe routes, and allow extra time for travel due to ongoing roadblocks and cleanup operations.
• Keep emergency supplies available, including water, food, medications, and backup power options.
• Monitor local weather services and county emergency updates for changing conditions or renewed warnings.

 

California continues to face significant impacts from the recent severe winter storms, which brought heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and debris flows across vast areas of the state. Flooded zones, saturated soil, and unstable hillsides remain a concern, particularly near mountain roads and low-lying areas, increasing the risk of mudslides. Road closures, localized power outages, and infrastructure disruptions are still in place as recovery efforts continue. Authorities caution that conditions could worsen quickly with any additional rainfall, and a full return to normal operations is unlikely within the next 48 hours in affected areas.   Advice:

• If in severely affected areas, follow local emergency instructions and evacuation orders immediately when issued.
• Adjust your travel plans, check flight and public transport status often, drive carefully on safe routes, and allow extra time for travel due to ongoing roadblocks and cleanup operations.
• Keep emergency supplies available, including water, food, medications, and backup power options.
• Monitor local weather services and county emergency updates for changing conditions or renewed warnings.

 

Zimbabwe is experiencing electricity outages linked to ongoing generation shortfalls and structural grid constraints. Load shedding and unplanned blackouts are reported daily in urban areas, disrupting businesses, services, and residential activity. Despite periodic assurances from the power utility, no stable restoration timeline has been confirmed, and outages are expected for the next 72 hours.   Advice:

• Be prepared and carry enough water, food, medication, power banks, documents, batteries, and cash (ATMs may be offline).
• Keep phones and power banks charged whenever electricity is available.
• Adjust your travel plans, check public transport and flight status to prevent delays due to expected reduced services.
• Avoid travelling at night due to non-functioning traffic lights and poor visibility.
• Monitor local utility announcements and credible local media for updates on load-shedding schedules or changes.

 

Tanzania is under an active general terrorism threat. Security forces maintain a high level of alertness, particularly in major cities and coastal tourist areas. Authorities warn that attacks could occur without warning, in tourist-facing venues and crowded public places, and report that the situation will remain, with no de-escalation expected over the next 72 hours.   Advice:

• Maintain high awareness of your surroundings, especially in public spaces and tourist areas.
• Avoid large gatherings, demonstrations, and crowded venues where possible, particularly in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar.
• Choose accommodations with visible security measures and follow the hotel's safety guidelines.
• Monitor embassy and official travel advisories for any changes to the security assessment.

 

Following a public transport strike, major disruptions and cancellations of metro, tram, and bus services in Brussels are expected today, especially during peak hours. This may cause increased congestion on the roads and congestion on alternative modes of transport, such as taxis.   Advice:

• Before each trip, check the status of the bus, tram, or metro in advance.
• Congestion on public transport and roads is expected; be prepared for long travel times and leave well in advance.
• Stay up to date with local news regarding changes and developments in the strike.

 

Heavy rains and thunderstorms in large parts of the country are causing flash flooding, road closures, damage to infrastructure, and traffic disruptions - especially in urban areas and near rivers, which are feared to overflow. The severe weather is expected to continue throughout the weekend.   Advice:

• Avoid non-essential travel and avoid driving on slippery or flooded roads, especially in low-lying areas or near water sources. Driving in shallow water is also dangerous
• During heavy rains, stay indoors and in a safe place.
• Be prepared for traffic disruptions and road closures, and check the latest road closures before you leave.
• Power outages and damage to infrastructure are possible. Make sure you have food, water, and medicine, and charge electronic devices and portable chargers.
• Stay updated with weather apps and local news.

 

Ground staff at Madrid Airport are expected to strike on December 26 and December 30, during two daily periods: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Delays are likely in check-in, baggage handling, and boarding during these times. Flights scheduled outside the strike hours may also experience disruptions.   Advice:

• Check your flight status and airline updates before heading to the airport.
• Due to the expected disruptions in baggage handling, pack essential items in your hand luggage. If possible, prefer to fly with hand luggage only.
• During check-in delays, expect congestion and long queues at check-in counters. Be prepared for this in advance and arrive well in advance.

 

Ice Storm Warnings and Winter Storm Warnings have been issued by the U.S. National Weather Service for multiple states following a potent winter weather system. Hazardous freezing rain, sleet, snow accumulations, and ice buildup are expected, creating slick, dangerous travel conditions and a risk of power outages and tree damage. Meanwhile, portions of New York City and the Tri-State area face up to 4-8 inches of snow, with winter storm watches in effect and strong travel advisories in place.   Advice: *Avoid non-essential travel on major highways and local roads during peak icing/snowfall periods; conditions may become nearly impassable with black ice and reduced visibility. *Expect airport delays and cancellations; check with airlines before traveling and allow extra time at terminals. *Prepare for potential power outages, ensure chargers, lighting, and heating alternatives are ready. *High-risk drivers and travelers should consider postponing trips until conditions improve and road crews have treated surfaces. *Stay updated through the local meteorological service (NWS) and weather alerts for real-time forecasts and warnings.  

The United States has carried out airstrikes targeting ISIS-affiliated militants in northwest Nigeria, according to a statement by U.S. President Donald Trump. The operation reportedly targeted cells responsible for recent attacks on civilian populations in the region. While details on the number of strikes and casualties remain limited, this marks a significant escalation in the U.S. counterterrorism involvement in West Africa. Security analysts warn that ISIS-linked groups may attempt retaliatory attacks against local or foreign targets.   Advice: * Avoid traveling to northwest Nigeria and border regions with Niger and Chad. * Monitor local developments and U.S. AFRICOM statements for verified updates. * Expect potential retaliation or unrest in areas with known militant activity. * Follow local and international media for security advisories and maintain contact with relevant authorities.