News & Reports

A magnitude-6.8 earthquake struck offshore in the Vanuatu region at 08:48 local time, September 9, at a depth of 10 km. Immediate reports indicate moderate to severe shaking near the epicenter. The affected area is sparsely populated, but an urgent impact assessment is ongoing. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center confirms no current tsunami threat, but continues monitoring for updates.   *Advice:* * Stay alert for possible aftershocks in the coming hours and days. * Avoid damaged or unstable structures if you are on nearby islands. * Verify the status of transport and utilities before travel; prepare essential supplies for temporary disruptions. * Monitor updates from USGS NEIC and the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center for any changes.  

A severe heat wave with record temperatures blankets Europe, triggering weather alerts and straining daily life. In Spain, highs of 44-45°C may be recorded in the Guadiana, Guadalquivir, and Segura valleys. Alicante, Cadiz, Girona, Andalusia, Catalonia, Valencia, and Seville are all due to be impacted by high heat. As the week progresses, the heat wave is projected to lose intensity and gradually shift northward, potentially affecting countries such as Germany, France, and the UK. Advice: - Avoid outdoor activity between 12:00 and 18:00, especially in red and amber alert zones. - Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and wear light, breathable clothing. - Seek cool environments - use shaded areas, or air-conditioned indoor spaces. - Watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke - dizziness, cramps, nausea - and seek medical attention promptly. - Monitor official weather updates via AEMET. - Report any signs of wildfire (smoke, flames) to emergency services immediately (112).  

Taxi drivers, organized under the Attica Taxi Drivers’ Union (SATA), have announced a full 48-hour strike beginning 6:00 AM local time on Tuesday, September 9, and continuing through 6:00 AM on Thursday, September 11. During the strike, taxis will only operate for hospital transfers and will display a special placard on the front for identification.   Advice: - Anticipate severe disruption to taxi services across Athens on September 9-10; travel plans should account for limited availability. - Use alternative transport options such as public transit, ride-hailing apps, or organized combinations (e.g., carshares). - Allow extra travel time and remain flexible in schedule planning during the strike period. - Hospital transfers may still be available - look for taxis with the designated identifier and call ahead.  

The RMT union's five-day strike is shutting down London Underground services from September 8 to 12, with no Tube operations. Buses, the Elizabeth line, and London Overground are running but are very overcrowded, especially around Stratford and Paddington. The Elizabeth line will not stop at Liverpool Street and Farringdon during early and late hours. The strike is due to pay and working hours disputes.   Advice: - Avoid planning journeys that rely on the Tube - expect closed or severely delayed service all day. - Use the Elizabeth line, Overground, buses, cycling, or walking instead; these options may be heavily crowded. - Allow significant extra time for travel, especially during peak hours. - Check live updates via official TfL, local news, or transport platforms before departure.  

Nationwide protests erupted today against a social media ban and government corruption, leading to clashes in Kathmandu's New Baneshwor that resulted in at least 14 deaths and over 100 injuries. Protesters breached security and entered the Parliament, prompting curfews in sensitive areas like Singha Durbar and Narayanhiti. A curfew was also enforced in Pokhara after damage to the Chief Minister's office, with similar protests reported in other cities, including Bharatpur.   Advice: - Avoid protest areas in Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara, and other cities; curfews and roadblocks are in effect. - Stay indoors during curfew hours and follow local authorities' instructions. - Expect traffic disruptions and possible public transit closures. - Stay clear of government buildings, police stations, and large gatherings. - Do not engage with protesters or security personnel; keep a safe distance from crowds to avoid potential clashes and injuries.  

Adverse weather from Severe Tropical Storm Tapah disrupted air travel at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). Airport authorities anticipate approximately 100 flight cancellations today, alongside numerous delays and 20 diversions to alternate destinations as of mid-morning. Tapah prompted the issuance of the No. 8 Storm Signal - the city’s third-highest warning level - resulting in business closures and widespread suspension of public transport across the territory.   Advice: Passengers departing from or arriving at HKG on September 8 should: - Check flight status before heading to the airport - delays and cancellations are widespread. - Expect service changes, including possible rescheduling or rerouting. - Follow official guidance communicated via airline channels, the “My HKG” app, and airport information systems.  

The Thai Meteorological Department continues to issue the highest-level heavy rainfall warnings across Bangkok and eight neighboring provinces, including Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. These conditions are being driven by the strengthening southwest monsoon patterns, while flash flood and drainage failure risks remain high.   Advice: - Stay indoors if possible, particularly in Bangkok and eastern provinces facing persistent heavy rains. - Avoid flood-affected roads, especially around Praksa Road and low-lying areas prone to deep water, riverbanks, and steep slopes. - Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain. If you must drive, check for closures and beware of flooded roads. - Follow updates from the Thai Meteorological Department and local authorities. - Keep an emergency kit handy, including a power bank, and essential documents in waterproof bags.  

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for extremely heavy rainfall in Gujarat districts. Rivers like the Banas and Sabarmati are swelling, flooding low-lying areas and causing widespread waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and evacuation orders. More than 1,000 villages in Punjab are also inundated, with fatalities reported. Flooding has damaged infrastructure and disrupted daily life across the region.   Advice: - Avoid travel to affected regions, particularly mountains and river valleys. - Stay clear of flood zones, mudslide-prone slopes, and fast-flowing streams, even if routes appear passable. - Follow updates from the India Meteorological Department. - Keep in contact with family and emergency services, and report changes in your location. - Prepare for power and transportation disruptions - keep essential supplies and charged devices ready.  

Following the Nepalese government's decision to block 26 social media platforms in Nepal in recent days, reports have emerged that young people in the country are planning to protest against this decision on Monday, September 8, starting at 9:00 AM in front of government buildings in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Advice: * The protest could turn violent - avoid government buildings in Kathmandu and Pokhara starting this morning. * Be prepared for changes in road traffic due to possible road closures. * If you are in the protest area and feel that tension is starting to build, leave the area immediately.

ocation: Guangdong, Fujian, and Zhejiang, with impacts possible in Guangxi & Hainan Typhoon Tapah is expected to hit Guangdong on Monday morning and other parts of southeastern China over the next few days. Heavy rain and strong winds are expected, and there is a risk of flooding and landslides, especially in low-lying areas. Advice: - Stay away from the coast and low-lying areas due to strong winds and landslides. - Avoid driving on flooded or slippery roads - Expect flight, ferry, and road travel disruptions due to heavy rainfall and strong winds. - Ensure access to emergency supplies, including safe drinking water, food, and essential medications.