News & Reports

Employees of Sureste Seguridad, responsible for security services at Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), will begin an indefinite strike starting August 28. The strike will affect operations every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday until an agreement is reached. Passengers may face longer wait times at security checkpoints, possible delays, and disruptions to airport services.   Advice: - Arrive at the airport well in advance (at least 3–4 hours before departure). - Allow extra time for security screening and expect potential delays. - Monitor updates from AENA and your airline for changes to flight operations.  

Ground staff employed by the Dubai National Air Travel Agency (dnata) at Perth International Airport - covering passenger services, ramp operations, and air cargo- will initiate a 24-hour strike from 17:30 on Thursday, August 21, until 10:00 Friday, August 22. Significant disruption to international flights is expected, notably to and from Singapore, the UAE, South Africa, Vietnam, and New Zealand, as well as freight operations.   Advice: - If traveling internationally from Perth during the strike, verify your flight status in advance as cancellations and delays are likely. - Plan for Disruptions: Allow extra time at the airport; consider adjusting itineraries or contacting airlines for alternatives. - Stay Updated: Monitor announcements from dnata, Perth Airport, and your airline for real-time updates and contingency arrangements.  

Anti-government protests in Serbia have intensified, with violent clashes occurring on August 19 during the seventh consecutive night of unrest in Belgrade. Demonstrators faced pro-regime groups and riot police, leading to tear gas and stun grenades being used. Similar violence was reported in Valjevo and Novi Sad, where party offices were set ablaze. Protesters are committed to daily rallies, while the SNS has organized counter-demonstrations across the country starting at 18:00 on August 20 in various cities.   Advice: - Avoid downtown Belgrade, especially near government buildings and SNS offices, as well as Valjevo and Novi Sad after dark due to potential violence. - Be prepared for a heavy security presence, including riot police and checkpoints. - Expect transportation disruptions; roads near protests may be rerouted or closed. - Do not engage with protesters or security personnel; keep a safe distance from crowds to avoid potential clashes and injuries.  

Hurricane Erin is a Category 2 storm moving north along the East Coast. While landfall is not expected, it is creating dangerous coastal conditions, including strong rip currents and localized flooding. Mandatory evacuations are in effect for parts of North Carolina's Outer Banks, and a state of emergency has been declared. Tropical storm watches are in place from Virginia Beach, Virginia, to Fenwick Island, Delaware. Communities should prepare for impacts in the next 24-36 hours.   Advice: - Avoid Coastal Areas: Stay out of the water; rip currents and high surf are life-threatening. - Follow Evacuation Orders: Move to higher ground if instructed. - Avoid Flooded Areas: Do not attempt to drive through standing or moving water. - Secure Property: Protect windows, doors, and outdoor objects that could become hazards. - Stay Informed: Monitor updates from local authorities and the National Hurricane Center. - Prepare for Power Outages: Charge devices and ready emergency supplies.  

The State Workers Association (ATE) has called on public sector workers to participate in a 24-hour nationwide strike on August 20. This action is in response to a series of vetoes made by President Javier Milei. A rally is set to take place outside Congress in Buenos Aires at 12:00 local time, and a weekly rally for pensioners is also scheduled at the same location, starting at 15:00.   Advice: - Avoid the Congress area and nearby streets in Buenos Aires during noon hours to minimize exposure to potential disruptions. - Expect road closures, public transport changes, and large crowds. - Refrain from engaging with demonstrators and political debates. - Plan for potential delays in transportation and services throughout the day.  

Air-e Intervenida will carry out preventive maintenance today (Aug. 20) at Juan de Acosta substation from 08:00 to 11:00 and at Riomar substation in Barranquilla from 06:00 to 16:00. Power outages are expected in urban and rural areas of Juan de Acosta, Piojó, Tubará, the Vía al Mar corridor, and various neighborhoods in northern Barranquilla, including La Campiña, Riomar, and Alto Prado.   Advice: - Prepare Backup Power: Charge devices in advance. Have flashlights and full batteries on hand. - Review Your Schedule: Plan around the outage window; shift activities or reschedule appointments considering the loss of electricity. - Protect Equipment: Disconnect sensitive electronics electronics; shut down non-essential devices during the outage. - Stay Informed: Monitor local news or Air‑e’s updates via social media or their website for real-time developments and restoration times.  

Destructive wildfires continue in northwestern Spain, particularly affecting Galicia and Castile & León. In Ourense province, areas like Bouses and Oimbra are heavily impacted, with Larouco burning approximately 49,400 acres. San Vicente de Leira has seen widespread home damage, affecting around 1,000 people. The fires have led to evacuations, road closures, and suspended AVE high-speed rail service between Madrid and Galicia. Portions of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail are also blocked.   Advice: - Avoid travel to fire-affected regions - especially Galicia, León, Zamora, Salamanca, and Extremadura. - Expect suspended rail services (click here for train service updates) road closures, and limited access to certain areas. - Stay alert to evacuation orders, especially if in or near rural or fire-prone zones. - Exercise respiratory precautions: wear masks if advised and limit outdoor activity. - Monitor updates from national and local authorities; follow instructions from civil protection and emergency services. - Contact 112 for emergencies.  

Heavy rainfall has caused major flooding in Vichada Department, affecting about 15,600 people and damaging 2,400 homes. The National Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology, and Environmental Studies (IDEAM) warns heavy rainfall will continue for the next 48 hours. Local authorities report traffic diversions, dangerous flooding, and slippery roads.   Advice: * Postpone travel in flood-affected areas until conditions stabilize. * Expect traffic diversions throughout the surrounding area. * Avoid crossing flooded streets and roads. * Stay away from rivers, streams, and low-lying areas in the region. * Ensure that emergency supplies, important documents, and valuables are kept in waterproof containers. * In case of an emergency, you can contact the Police by dialing 123.  

The Ethiopian Red Cross Society (ERCS) has confirmed the abduction and killing of a staff member in the North Gondar Zone. On August 14, a humanitarian worker was abducted near Cheneqe, about 15 km from Debark town, and was killed the following day. Two of his colleagues survived the attack. It is unclear whether the aid worker was targeted for his work. The incident follows a series of recent attacks targeting Ethiopian Red Cross Society (ERCS) staff and infrastructure.   Advice: - Avoid non-essential travel to North Gondar and surrounding areas due to heightened insecurity. - Humanitarian personnel should maintain low profiles and adhere strictly to movement protocols. - If caught in a similar incident, prioritize safety: seek immediate shelter and avoid confrontation. - Maintain coordination with local partners for real-time security updates and incident verification. - Prepare for potential evacuations by developing multiple exit strategies and identifying alternative safe locations.  

Local sources reported that on the morning of August 16, unidentified gunmen ambushed bank employees transporting cash by car from the Mulo branch to Addis Ababa. The attack left three bank employees and eleven security force members dead, while four others were injured. The incident is part of a broader pattern of armed attacks in Oromia, where vehicles - including public transport- have been repeatedly targeted.   Advice: - Avoid non-essential travel to Chancho and the surrounding rural areas until the security situation stabilizes. - If caught in a similar incident, prioritize safety: seek immediate shelter and avoid confrontation. - Reinforce protection protocols: ensure team members are registered, communication devices are functional, and movement plans are shared in advance. - Maintain coordination with local partners for real-time security updates and incident verification.