News & Reports

A magnitude 6.0 earthquake shook central Costa Rica today, with its epicentre located about 62 km south of the capital San José. Although no immediate reports of major damage or casualties have been confirmed, the depth and strength of the tremor require heightened awareness; aftershocks may follow.   Advice: - Avoid non-essential travel to rural areas around the epicentre until structural inspections of bridges, roads and buildings are completed. - In urban centres like San José, remain alert for aftershocks, and stay away from damaged or unstable structures. - Review and update your emergency plan, ensure your accommodation has emergency contacts and supplies readily available.  

Violent clashes broke out near the Citywest Hotel, which houses asylum seekers, after anti-immigration demonstrators gathered in the area. Protesters threw bottles and fireworks at police, setting a Garda van on fire before officers restored order. Public transport routes and nearby roads have been temporarily disrupted, and authorities advise avoiding the area as tensions remain high.   Advice: - Avoid the Citywest and Saggart areas, as well as nearby tram and bus routes, until police lift restrictions. - Expect temporary closures and diversions on the Luas Red Line between Belgard and Saggart stations. - Refrain from photographing or approaching protests, as violence may flare up unexpectedly. - If staying in Dublin, plan alternate routes to and from the city’s western suburbs. - Follow travel alerts from Transport for Ireland and local news updates for any service changes. https://www.irishexaminer.com/  

A demonstration against the Fresh Cut Organic poultry-waste rendering plant escalated into violence today, with approximately 50 people injured, vehicles and machinery set ablaze. Residents allege the facility has been causing foul smells and polluting local water bodies, and renewed operations triggered blocking of access routes, stone-pelting, and clashes with police.   Advice: - Avoid travel to Thamarassery, Kattippara Panchayat and surrounding areas until the situation stabilises. - Expect roadblocks, police deployments and disrupted access in rural Kozhikode. - Stay away from industrial sites and protest zones, especially near the waste-plant perimeter. - Monitor local authority alerts, keep updated through regional news channels and register your presence with your embassy if staying nearby. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/  

Since October 20, New Zealand has faced severe weather with strong winds and heavy rainfall, disrupting road and air travel and leading to flight cancellations. State Highway 8 near Lake Tekapo on the South Island was temporarily closed. From October 21 to 23, New Zealand’s MetService warned about strong northwesterly winds and heavy rain. An orange alert for severe weather was declared for much of the South Island and the eastern and lower North Island during this period.   Advice: - Avoid non-essential travel in affected areas, especially on the South Island and Wellington. - Stay indoors during periods of heavy rain and strong winds. - Do not shelter under trees or near structures that may be affected by strong winds. - Monitor real-time weather updates from the New Zealand MetService.  

Activists are planning to rally outside the Government of Serbia building in Belgrade from 16:00 to 19:00 on October 22 to demand the implementation of legislation that provides compensation for parents and caregivers of children with disabilities or chronic illnesses.   Advice: - Avoid the immediate area around Nemanjina Street before and during the event; if you must transit the area, use alternate routes via less-central roads. - Expect possible road closures or rerouting; allow extra time, stay informed of service changes in public transport. - Follow local authority directions, and leave the area immediately if tensions rise or the situation changes.  

Pro-Palestinian activists are scheduled to rally outside the Dáil from 13:30 (local time )on October 22 to protest Ireland’s economic relations with Israel. The event is expected to draw a moderate turnout and to heighten security around government buildings.   Advice: - Avoid the Dáil Éireann area on October 22 during the demonstration period. - Protest dynamics can shift unexpectedly. Maintain a safe distance and follow the directions of law enforcement - Avoid engaging in geopolitical discussions with protesters and bystanders. If tension is felt, leave the area immediately. - Expect changes and delays to public transport and stay informed - roads in the march areas may be closed.  

Severe flooding and landslides have caused major transport disruptions across central and eastern Mexico, with roads destroyed and several communities cut off. Hidalgo and Veracruz are among the hardest-hit areas, where landslides and overflowing rivers have made travel hazardous. Military and emergency crews are conducting rescue and relief operations, and access to many rural areas remains restricted.   Advice: - Avoid non-essential travel to affected regions until conditions improve. - Expect road closures, detours, and flight delays in central and eastern Mexico. - Check route conditions before travel and follow official advisories from local authorities. - Monitor updates from Mexico’s National Civil Protection Coordination (CNPC): https://www.gob.mx/cenapred  

Air quality in Delhi has deteriorated to “very poor” levels (AQI 341) after widespread use of firecrackers began around 8 PM, causing heavy smog and reduced visibility by 9 PM in central parts of the city, including Ajmer Gate and the NDMC building area. The spike in particulate matter has prompted health warnings, with experts advising residents, especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, to limit outdoor exposure.   Advice: - Avoid outdoor activity and physical exertion during peak pollution hours. - Use N95 masks or air purifiers indoors where possible. - Keep windows closed and avoid burning waste or wood. - Monitor real-time air quality updates from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB): https://app.cpcbccr.com/AQI_India/  

A severe weather warning has been issued for southern Thailand from tomorrow until Saturday, October 25. Heavy rain is expected, which could lead to flash floods, landslides, and urban flooding. In addition, reservoirs in the Ranong, Surat Thani, Phuket, and Krabi regions may overflow, increasing the risk of flooding. Advice: - During heavy rains, avoid staying in low-lying areas, near lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. If you are in such an area, stay in an enclosed, protected structure that is elevated from the ground and make sure all your belongings are secure. - Avoid non-essential travel by private car or motorcycle on flooded or slippery roads or paths. - Stay updated on weather apps and listen to local authorities' instructions in case of any change or worsening weather.

A 24-hour train strike is expected across Italy tomorrow, October 21. The strike is expected to last 24 hours and will lead to disruptions, delays, and cancellations. Italian authorities have announced that during the morning rush hours of 6AM-9AM and evening rush hours of 6PM-9PM, essential train services will operate despite the strike. Advise: - Check with your train company for any changes to your train status before heading to the station. - Consider alternative transport options such as a bus, private car, or taxi. - The disruptions to trains may cause congestion on other modes of transport. Plan your trip in advance and allow enough time for your journey.