News & Reports

Severe flooding struck Kasaba in Fizi Territory, South Kivu, due to Lake Tanganyika overflowing. The floodwaters, carrying sand and rocks, destroyed nearly all homes, swept away canoes, and caused significant material damage. Many residents remain missing, and the death toll is unknown as search efforts continue, according to local sources and Ngandja sector chief Akili Bernard. This marks the second major natural disaster in the region recently, following similar flooding in Kakone, Babungwe South.   Advice: - Avoid travel to Kasaba and the surrounding areas in Fizi Territory due to ongoing flooding risks and unstable conditions. - Follow guidance from local authorities and stay updated via South Kivu provincial government announcements or humanitarian organizations. - Expect disruptions due to damaged infrastructure; plan alternate routes if travel is unavoidable. - Monitor local news and regional updates for developments on flooding and rescue operations. - Keep contact information for local emergency services and your country’s embassy or consulate accessible.  

A fire broke out at 2:20 a.m. on May 10, 2025, at the CleanWater Pool facility in Vilanova i la Geltrú, storing 70 tons of chlorine, producing a toxic cloud. This has led to a lockdown of approximately 147,000 residents across five municipalities. Catalan Civil Protection has activated the PLASEQCAT emergency plan, urging residents to stay indoors, keep windows and doors closed, and avoid using air conditioning. The C-15 and C-31 highways are closed, and Renfe trains on the R2 Sur route are bypassing stops between Sitges and Sant Vicenç de Calders.   Advice: - Avoid all travel to Vilanova i la Geltrú, Sant Pere de Ribes, Cubelles, Cunit, and Calafell due to the toxic cloud and ongoing emergency operations. - Follow Civil Protection instructions: remain indoors, seal windows and doors, and refrain from using air conditioning to avoid exposure to chlorine gas. - Expect significant travel disruptions, including road closures on the C-15 and C-31 highways and suspended train stops on the R2 Sur route. - Keep contact information for local emergency services and your country’s embassy or consulate readily available.  

Heavy rainfall on May 8, 2025, triggered a landslide in the La Doctora area of Sabaneta, Antioquia, destroying homes and disrupting the San Isidro sector. The Sabaneta mayor’s office reports 23 homes evacuated, 21 critical points identified, and 213 people under preventive evacuation, with shelters at the Senior Citizens’ Club and Primitivo Leal Educational Institution.   Advice: - Avoid travel to Sabaneta, particularly the San Isidro sector and La Doctora area, due to ongoing landslide risks. - Follow instructions from local authorities, including evacuation orders, and stay updated via the Sabaneta mayor’s office or the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD). - Expect delays due to roadblocks and rescue operations; plan alternate routes if travel is essential. - Monitor local news and weather updates for rainfall and landslide risk developments. - Keep contact information for local emergency services and your country’s embassy or consulate accessible.  

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a severe weather warning for May 10, 2025, forecasting thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, strong winds, and occasional hail affecting approximately 60% of 55 provinces. The northeastern region will face summer storms, with other regions experiencing similar conditions shortly after. This is due to a high-pressure system from China bringing moisture from the Gulf of Thailand and the South China Sea, combined with hot to extremely hot weather. In the south, increased rainfall and heavy showers are expected, with rough seas in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea.   Advice: - Avoid non-essential travel in affected areas, particularly during thunderstorms, due to risks of heavy rain, strong winds, and hail. - Stay indoors and away from large trees, unstable structures, and billboards to minimize risks from gusty winds. - Monitor updates from the Thai Meteorological Department and local news for real-time weather developments. - Farmers should secure crops, agricultural produce, and livestock to protect against storm damage. - Sailors in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea should avoid thunderstorm areas due to high waves (over 2 meters). - Plan for potential travel delays, especially in Bangkok, the northeastern, and southern regions, due to disrupted road and maritime conditions. - Keep contact information for local emergency services and your country’s embassy or consulate readily available.  

On May 9, 2025, all BART train services were halted early Friday morning due to a computer networking problem, causing a system-wide shutdown. The agency reported the issue around 4:25 a.m., urging riders to seek alternative transportation methods while crews work to resolve the problem. Advice: - Avoid BART Stations: Refrain from traveling to or through BART stations until services are restored. - Seek Alternative Transportation: Utilize rideshare services, buses, or other transit options to reach your destination. - Monitor Official Updates: Stay informed through BART's official channels and local news outlets for real-time information on service restoration. - Plan for Delays: Anticipate extended travel times and consider adjusting your plans accordingly.  

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued an alert for squall line storms, which can bring heavy rainfall, flash floods, strong winds, thunder, lightning, and rough seas. These storms typically occur during the current Southwest Monsoon season, mainly in the morning and evening, and can significantly disrupt aviation, shipping, and coastal activities. The squall line can extend for hundreds of kilometers and last for several hours, posing serious risks to public safety and property.   Advice: - Avoid Outdoor and Maritime Activities: Stay indoors, avoid beaches, and delay any planned boating or maritime activities until weather conditions improve. - Seek Higher Ground: Move to higher ground if flash flooding occurs and avoid low-lying areas prone to water accumulation. - Monitor Weather Updates: Follow official updates for the latest weather forecasts and storm alerts. - Emergency Preparedness: Prepare for power outages and keep emergency supplies, including water, flashlights, and batteries, readily available. - For immediate assistance, contact emergency services at 999 if stranded or in danger.  

A bomb threat was received via email, leading to the evacuation of the University of Warsaw Library (BUW). Authorities have issued a public warning, advising individuals to stay away from the area. Police and emergency services are conducting thorough inspections of the premises. Advice: - Stay Away: Avoid the vicinity of the University of Warsaw Library until authorities declare it safe. - Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice any unusual behavior or objects, contact emergency services at 112. - Do Not Touch Suspicious Items: If you encounter an unfamiliar object, do not approach or handle it. Alert the authorities immediately. - Follow Official Instructions: Adhere strictly to directives from university security and emergency personnel. - Remain Calm: In the event of an evacuation, proceed in an orderly manner to designated assembly points.  

Two serious violent crimes have occurred in Västerås Municipality. Police are searching for a suspect considered dangerous. A public warning (VMA) has been issued in Skultuna, advising residents to stay indoors and be alert for individuals exhibiting unusual behavior. Extensive police operations are ongoing in Rönnby and Skultuna. Advice: - Stay Indoors: Remain inside your residence and avoid unnecessary travel in the affected areas. - Be Vigilant: Report any suspicious activity or individuals to the police immediately at 112. - Follow Official Updates: Monitor local news and official channels for real-time information and instructions.  

The Civil Defence Department will conduct air raid siren testing at the Public Works Department (PWD) headquarters located in ITO, New Delhi, on Friday. According to an official statement, the test is scheduled to begin at 3:00 PM and will last for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Meanwhile, Delhi Police have increased security measures across the city, deploying additional officers at key sites and sensitive locations. Advice: - Stay Calm: Remember, this is only a pre-planned test. There is no immediate danger. - Stay Informed: Monitor official channels for real-time updates, including local news, government alerts, and travel advisories. - Emergency Awareness: Familiarize yourself with local emergency procedures, including the location of safe shelters and emergency contact numbers. - Keep Essentials Handy: Carry a fully charged phone, portable power bank, and a copy of your travel documents at all times. - Respect Local Authorities: Follow any instructions from local officials or police, and avoid restricted areas during the test period.  

Volcanic activity has been reported at Mount Raung in East Java, Indonesia, by the Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) on May 9, 2025, at 01:24 UTC. The eruption was detected through aerial, satellite, and ground observations. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and additional information will be provided as it becomes available. Advice: - Avoid areas surrounding Mount Raung due to the risk of further eruptions, ashfall, and potential landslides. - Travelers should reconfirm transportation schedules as volcanic ash may disrupt flights, road access, and local transportation. - Monitor official alerts from the CVGHM and local authorities for updates on evacuation orders and air quality. - Be prepared for sudden changes in air quality and reduced visibility due to ashfall. - Keep important travel documents, emergency supplies, and communication devices accessible in case of evacuation.