News & Reports

Health authorities in Morocco have reported a widespread measles outbreak, with more than 25,000 suspected cases and at least 184 deaths recorded since late 2023. The outbreak, initially concentrated in the south, has now spread across all regions of the country. Most cases involve children and adolescents, many of whom were not fully vaccinated.   Advice: - Verify Vaccination Status: Ensure you and your family are protected against measles. - Watch for Symptoms: Typical signs include fever, cough, and skin rash—seek medical help if needed. - Take Precautions: Avoid unnecessary exposure in crowded public areas during active outbreaks. - Stay Informed: Follow updates from local health authorities for the latest guidance. - MAGNUS is monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary.  

A nationwide strike is scheduled for Tuesday, May 14, involving multiple unions, student organizations, and civil society groups across Peru. Demonstrations and roadblocks are expected in urban centers and on key highways. Authorities have confirmed that in-person classes will be suspended at several universities, including UNMSM, PUCP, and Universidad del Callao. Traffic diversions and congestion are expected in areas around major gathering points such as Plaza Dos de Mayo, Plaza San Martín, and Parque Universitario in Lima. The strike is a response to the increase in extortion, murder, and crime in the country.   Advice: - Avoid Demonstration Areas: Stay clear of known protest hotspots and routes likely to be affected by gatherings or blockades. - Use Alternative Routes: Expect transport disruptions and plan ahead to avoid affected zones. - Remote Work/Study: If possible, shift to remote activities to minimize exposure to disturbances. - Stay Informed: Monitor local news and university communications for real-time updates on disruptions and safety instructions. - MAGNUS is monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary.  

The Juba Electricity Distribution Company (JEDCO) has announced a planned 13-hour power outage in Juba on Sunday, May 18, from 8AM to 7PM to facilitate annual maintenance work. The maintenance aims to enhance the reliability and safety of the city's power supply.   Advice: - Prepare for Outage: Charge essential devices and ensure backup power sources are ready. - Plan Accordingly: Schedule activities requiring electricity outside the outage window. - Stay Informed: Monitor JEDCO's official channels for updates and further information. - MAGNUS is monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary.  

On May 15, 2025, Palestinians and supporters globally will observe the 77th anniversary of the Nakba—the mass displacement of Palestinians during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. The Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement has called for a Global Day of Action, urging mass mobilizations, civil disobedience, and solidarity events worldwide.   Advice: - Stay Informed: Monitor local news outlets and official announcements for information on planned demonstrations, road closures, and public transportation adjustments in your area. - Plan Ahead: If you have travel plans on May 15, especially in urban centers, anticipate potential delays due to protests and increased traffic. Consider adjusting your schedule or routes accordingly. - Exercise Caution: There is potential for heightened tensions. Avoid areas where protests occur, and if you encounter a demonstration, remain calm and do not engage. - Respect Local Guidelines: Follow any instructions or advisories issued by local authorities or law enforcement to ensure your safety and the safety of others.  

From 23:59 local time on May 16 until 03:00 on May 19, planned roadworks will result in closures around Heathrow Airport. Affected roads include the eastbound Northern Perimeter Road, Nelson Road, and Newbury Road. Access to the Terminal 5 Park & Ride car park will be directly impacted.   Advice: - Plan Alternative Routes: Approach Terminal 5 Park & Ride via the westbound Northern Perimeter Road. - Allow Extra Travel Time: Anticipate delays due to detours and increased traffic; consider arriving at the airport earlier than usual. - Use Public Transport: Consider using the Heathrow Express or London Underground services to avoid road disruptions. - Stay Informed: Monitor Heathrow Airport's official website or social media channels for real-time updates on road closures and traffic conditions.  

Doctors have initiated a partial strike during morning shifts from 14 to 17 May, demanding higher wages and improved working conditions. The strike has notably disrupted operations in Addis Ababa and Bahir Dar. Emergency services and maternity care remain operational. Reports indicate that some participating doctors have faced intimidation and arrests. A comprehensive strike could begin as early as May 18.   Advice: - Seek Medical Attention Early: If you require medical services, consult private healthcare providers or plan visits during non-strike hours. - Verify Hospital Services: Contact hospitals in advance to confirm the availability of services and avoid unnecessary trips. - Be aware of potential protests or demonstrations related to the strike and avoid such areas for personal safety. - Monitor announcements from the Ministry of Health and local news outlets for updates on the strike and healthcare services.  

Today (May 14), a nationwide general strike is planned across Peru, affecting multiple sectors including public transport, education, and commerce. The strike is organized by various unions such as CGTP, SUTEP, FENATE, and PERÚ CUT, aiming to protest against rising insecurity in the country. Significant disruptions are expected in Lima, Callao, La Libertad, Arequipa, Puno, and Cusco.   Transportation Impact: - Public Transport: Services including buses, taxis, interprovincial, and tourist transport are anticipated to be disrupted nationwide. - Machu Picchu Routes: Train services to and from Machu Picchu will operate only between Ollantaytambo Station and Machu Picchu. Bimodal services (bus + train) are suspended. - Cusco–Puno Route: The PeruRail Titicaca train service on the Cusco–Puno route is suspended.   Advice: - If you have travel plans for May 14, especially involving public transport or PeruRail services, consider rescheduling or seeking alternative arrangements to avoid disruptions. - Allocate extra time for travel and be prepared for potential delays or cancellations.​ - Consider Walking or Cycling: For shorter distances, walking or using a bicycle can be efficient alternatives. - Follow local news and official updates from the ATU and law enforcement agencies. - Avoid areas where protests are taking place to ensure personal safety.  

Heavy rainfall on May 14, 2025, across Karnataka, including Bengaluru, Hubballi, and Belgaum, has triggered widespread disruptions during the pre-monsoon season. Flooding has inundated homes in Hubballi’s Ganesh Nagar and Anand Nagar. The India Meteorological Department reports significant rainfall, with Bengaluru Urban receiving 81 mm and Belgaum 132.5 mm of heavy rain for two more days.   Advice: - Avoid travel in flood-affected areas like Hubballi, Belgaum, and Bengaluru’s low-lying zones due to waterlogged roads and traffic disruptions. - Monitor updates from the India Meteorological Department and Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority for real-time weather alerts. - Secure valuable items and elevate appliances in flood-prone homes to minimize damage from water intrusion. - Stay clear of flooded rivers, streams, and drains to avoid being swept away by strong currents. - Prepare emergency kits with essentials like food, water, and medical supplies for potential prolonged flooding. - Keep contact information for local emergency services, such as BBMP helplines (2266 0000 or WhatsApp 94806 85700), and your country’s embassy or consulate accessible.  

On May 14, 2025, Greece’s Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection issued a tsunami warning for the coasts of Kasos and Karpathos islands following seismic activity south of Kasos. Emergency services have urged residents and visitors to move inland and avoid beaches due to the risk of tsunami waves impacting the area. The alert was broadcast via the 112 Greece system, emphasizing immediate evacuation from coastal zones.   Advice: - Avoid coastal areas of Kasos, Karpathos, and nearby islands; move to higher ground immediately as directed by authorities. - Follow instructions from the Greek Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection and local emergency services. - Stay away from beaches, harbors, and low-lying coastal areas until the tsunami warning is lifted. - Monitor updates from Greek authorities and local news for real-time information on the tsunami risk. - Keep emergency supplies ready, including water, food, and a flashlight, in case of prolonged evacuation. - Keep contact information for local emergency services and your country’s embassy or consulate accessible.  

On May 14, 2025, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported the southwest monsoon’s early onset over parts of the south Bay of Bengal, south Andaman Sea, Nicobar Islands, and north Andaman Sea, about a week ahead of the typical May 19–22 schedule. Driven by strong southwesterly winds, increased cloud cover, and heavy rainfall, particularly in the Nicobar Islands, the monsoon’s advance signals robust conditions. The IMD forecasts potential progression to Kerala by May 31, with above-normal rainfall expected for the 2025 season due to favorable La Niña and Indian Ocean Dipole conditions.   Advice: - Prepare for heavy rainfall and potential flooding in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands; avoid non-essential travel to affected areas. - Plan for possible travel disruptions in coastal and island regions due to strong winds and heavy rain. - Secure outdoor items and ensure drainage systems are clear to mitigate flood risks. - Stay indoors during heavy rainfall to avoid risks from lightning and strong winds. - Keep contact information for local emergency services and your country’s embassy or consulate accessible.