News & Reports

On May 22, 2025, dengue fever outbreaks continue in Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and Rarotonga, Cook Islands, with each reporting at least one death. Rarotonga has seven confirmed cases (DENV-1, DENV-2), three active in one household, triggering an outbreak declaration. Heavy rainfall fuels mosquito breeding, increasing risks in urban areas like Suva, Apia, Nuku‘alofa, and Avarua. The Cook Islands’ Operation Namu includes clean-ups and spraying to curb the spread. Travelers face higher infection risks, with some cancellations reported.   Advice: - Dengue fever increases risks in Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and Rarotonga. Use 40–50% DEET repellent and mosquito nets, especially during daytime. - If in Rarotonga, avoid mosquito-prone areas like Muri Beach, wear long clothing, and stay in screened accommodations. In Fiji, Samoa, or Tonga, remain in urban centers like Suva, Apia, or Nuku‘alofa. - Suggested alternatives include redirecting travel to New Zealand, accessible via flights from Nadi, Apia, or Rarotonga with Air New Zealand, pending airport operations. - Travelers should monitor for symptoms (fever, joint pain, rash) and seek medical care if unwell. Adhere to essential travel plans only. - Stay informed through government-affiliated sources such as the Fiji Ministry of Health (www.health.gov.fj), Samoa Ministry of Health (www.health.gov.ws), Tonga Ministry of Health (www.health.gov.to), or Cook Islands Ministry of Health (www.health.gov.ck) for outbreak updates. - Contact 112 for immediate assistance if in danger.  

Aemet forecasts extreme heat on May 29 and June 1, potentially the hottest for these dates since 1950, with temperatures 6–7°C above normal due to a hot air mass from North Africa. Some areas, particularly Andalusia, may hit 40°C, risking record-breaking May highs. The heatwave, expected to persist until at least June 1, will affect most of Spain, with northern, eastern, and southern regions seeing temperatures up to 10°C above average.   Advice: - Refrain from outdoor activities across Spain, especially in Andalusia, during peak heat hours (11 a.m.–4 p.m.) to avoid heatstroke. - If in affected areas, stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, and seek air-conditioned spaces. Check on vulnerable groups like the elderly. - Travelers should carry water, avoid strenuous activities, and monitor weather updates. Stick to essential plans only. - Stay informed through government-affiliated sources for heatwave updates. Conditions may escalate rapidly. - Store sunscreen and hats to protect against high UV exposure during outdoor travel. - If feeling unwell due to heat, seek shade immediately and contact local health services.  

Starting May 28, 2025, officials in Buga, Valle del Cauca, have imposed a two-day nighttime curfew to maintain security during a national strike called by social, student, and labor groups supporting President Gustavo Petro’s reforms and proposed referendum. The strike involves demonstrations, sit-ins, and town halls across Colombia, with Bogotá expecting major marches from 5 a.m. at locations like Portal 80 and Autopista Norte. In Buga, the curfew aims to prevent unrest, though specific hours are not detailed.   Advice: - Avoid travel to Buga during the curfew and strike period due to potential disruptions and security measures. - If in Buga, stay indoors during nighttime curfew hours, comply with local authorities, and avoid protest areas. - In Bogotá, steer clear of march routes like Portal 80 and Autopista Norte, and use public transport cautiously due to possible roadblocks. - Stay informed through government-affiliated sources like the Valle del Cauca Governor’s Office for curfew and strike updates. Conditions may escalate rapidly. - Keep identification handy and avoid confrontations with protesters or security forces in Buga and Bogotá. - If planning to join demonstrations, remain in groups and stay alert for sudden changes in crowd dynamics.  

Heavy rainfall from an early southwest monsoon since May 26 has caused waist-deep flooding in Khadki village, Ahilyanagar District (formerly Ahmednagar), marooning residents and damaging structures. The Indian Army launched rescue operations on May 27, deploying a relief column from ACC&S with medical and engineering teams to assist stranded families. The IMD reports 5–15 mm/hour rainfall with 41–61 kmph winds, forecasting continued heavy rain.   Advice: - Refrain from traveling to Ahilyanagar District, especially Khadki, until flooding subsides. - If in affected areas, avoid flooded zones and strong currents. Seek higher ground and cooperate with Army rescue teams. - Travelers should carry waterproof gear, avoid non-essential travel, and monitor weather updates. Stick to essential plans only. - Stay informed through government-affiliated sources like the India Meteorological Department for weather and flood updates. Conditions may escalate rapidly. - Store essential supplies like food, water, and first-aid kits in waterproof containers to prepare for potential isolation due to flooding. - If evacuating, inform local authorities or neighbors of your plans to ensure traceability and access to rescue services.  

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms since May 26 have triggered severe flooding in Santa Fe Province, particularly in Vera City. As of May 28, one fatality, 23 injuries, and 120 displaced people in three evacuation centers are reported, with 420 mm of rain causing infrastructure damage and school closures. More heavy rain is expected until May 29.   Advice: - Refrain from traveling to or through Santa Fe Province, especially Vera, until conditions stabilize. - If in affected areas, avoid low-lying zones and waterways prone to flash floods. Do not walk or drive through flooded areas. Be cautious of potential landslides. - Travelers should carry waterproof gear, avoid outdoor activities during heavy rain, and monitor weather updates. Adhere to essential travel plans only. - Stay informed through government-affiliated sources like the Servicio Meteorológico Nacional for weather and flood updates. Conditions may escalate rapidly.  

On May 28–29, 2025, the Attica Taxi Drivers’ Union (SATA) is holding a 48-hour strike from 6:00 a.m. Wednesday to 6:00 a.m. Friday, halting taxi services across Athens and Attica. No taxi services will be available, severely impacting travel to/from Athens International Airport, Piraeus cruise port, and city centers. Expect delays and overcrowding on the metro and buses, despite increased airport bus (X96) and metro services. Cruise passengers on ships like MSC Armonia or Resilient Lady on May 29 may face challenges reaching ports or hotels.   Advice: - The strike will disrupt taxi availability, especially at Athens International Airport and Piraeus cruise port. Use metro, buses, or ride-hailing apps like Uber, though expect higher demand and potential delays. - If in Athens, plan airport/port transfers early, using OASA’s telematics system or call 11185 for schedules. Allow extra travel time, especially on May 29. - Consider alternative destinations like Thessaloniki or pre-booking private transfers to avoid reliance on taxis. - Stay informed via local news, as further actions may follow.  

Colombia is experiencing a 48-hour national strike on May 28 and 29, organized by the Central Unitaria de Trabajadores (CUT) and supported by various labor unions and social organizations.   Key Events: Bogotá: - May 28: March from National Park to Plaza Bolívar at 09:00 local time. - May 28: Demonstrations at Puente de la Dignidad and Universidad Nacional at 11:00. - May 29: Rally at Plaza Bolívar at 15:00. Bucaramanga: - May 28: Gathering at Santander Park at 08:00. Neiva: - May 28: March from El Tizón and El Paraíso Garden to Santander Park at 08:00. Medellín: - May 28–29: Demonstrations organized by the Adida union at 11:00.   Advice: - Avoid the demonstration areas during scheduled protest hours to minimize potential exposure to traffic congestion or crowd-related disturbances. - Anticipate significant public services in affected cities. - Follow police instructions and observe posted road signs regarding closures or detours in the area. Consider adjusting your travel plans to accommodate potential delays. - If you find yourself near the demonstration, keep a low profile, avoid displaying political symbols or statements, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid engaging with protesters or counter-protesters.  

China's National Meteorological Centre has issued red-level warnings for severe rainfall and flooding in southern provinces, predicting intense storms. Jiangxi province may see over 150 millimeters of rain, leading to flash flood risks. In Guizhou, landslides have trapped many, prompting military rescue efforts. Several train services in Shenzhen have been suspended from May 28–29 due to the severe weather.   Advice: - Refrain from traveling to or through Jiangxi, Fujian, Guangxi, Guangdong, and Guizhou until conditions stabilize. - If in affected areas, avoid low-lying zones and waterways prone to flash floods. Avoid walking or driving through flooded areas. Be cautious of potential landslides, especially in mountainous regions. - Travelers should carry waterproof gear, avoid outdoor activities during gales, and monitor weather updates. Adhere to essential travel plans only. - Stay informed through government-affiliated sources such as the China Meteorological Administration or the Ministry of Water Resources  for weather and flood updates. Conditions may escalate rapidly. - Contact 110 for immediate assistance if stranded or in danger.  

Pro-Palestine activists have scheduled two demonstrations in Sydney to express solidarity with Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.   Event Details: - Wednesday, May 29: A protest is planned at Martin Place starting at 17:30 local time (07:30 GMT). - Sunday, June 1: A larger rally is scheduled at Hyde Park, commencing at 13:00 local time (03:00 GMT).   Advice: - Avoid the demonstration area during scheduled protest hours to minimize potential exposure to traffic congestion or crowd-related disturbances. - Follow police instructions and observe posted road signs regarding closures or detours in the area. Consider adjusting your travel plans to accommodate potential delays. - If you find yourself near the demonstration, keep a low profile, avoid displaying political symbols or statements, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid engaging with protesters or counter-protesters.  

Continuous rainfall since May 25, 2025, has triggered severe flooding in Phu Kradueng District, Loei Province, with the Pong River overflowing and submerging over 150 homes across three subdistricts, including Phu Kradueng and Sri Than. Aerial views show widespread inundation from runoff originating in Phu Kradueng National Park and Pong Ko stream. In Phanok Khao Subdistrict, several roads are impassable, and Phanok Khao Community School has taken precautions by dismissing students early and relocating equipment. The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department (DDPM) has issued urgent warnings for flash floods and riverbank overflows, urging residents to move belongings to higher ground and evacuate vulnerable groups.   Advice: - Avoid travel in Phu Kradueng District, especially in low-lying areas near the Pong River, due to flooded roads and flash flood risks. - Monitor updates from the DDPM and Thai Meteorological Department for real-time flood warnings. - Follow evacuation orders promptly and relocate to designated safe areas or higher ground if in affected subdistricts. - Secure valuables and prepare emergency kits with food, water, and medical supplies for potential prolonged flooding. - Stay clear of rivers, streams, and flooded areas to avoid hazards from sudden water surges. - Keep contact information for local emergency services (1669 for disasters) and your country’s embassy or consulate accessible.