News & Reports

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued warnings for extreme heat exceeding 40°C in Northern Thailand and thunderstorms with high waves in nine southern provinces, effective for the next 24 hours from March 25, 2025.   Advice: - In Northern Thailand, avoid prolonged outdoor activities during the day as temperatures soar above 40°C, and stay hydrated to protect against heat-related illnesses, especially in areas with widespread haze. - Secure outdoor items and limit exposure to dust and haze in upper Thailand, where weaker winds are causing significant accumulation, particularly in the north, northeast, and central regions. - In the southern provinces (Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Krabi, Trang, Satun, Phang Nga, Phuket), prepare for thunderstorms affecting 10% of the area by staying indoors during sudden rain and avoiding flood-prone zones. - Mariners in the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea should exercise caution and avoid thunderstorm areas, where waves exceeding 1 meter (and up to 2 meters offshore in the west) could make navigation hazardous. - Along the eastern and western southern coasts, refrain from water activities like swimming or boating, as waves over 1 meter and strong winds of 15-30 km/h may create dangerous sea conditions. - Residents in Bangkok and its vicinity should monitor health impacts from heat and haze, with temperatures reaching 37-39°C, and ensure proper ventilation indoors as southeasterly winds remain weak at 10-20 km/h. - Stay updated with TMD forecasts, as a 15-day rainfall prediction also warns of an upcoming summer storm, requiring preparation across affected regions.  

A brutal Arctic freeze is expected to hit the UK starting April 3, with temperatures dropping to -2°C in some areas. Cold conditions will extend as far south as Cornwall and Plymouth, with eastern cities such as London and Southampton also experiencing chilly weather. In addition to the cold, there are predictions of wetter and unsettled conditions through late March and early April, with heavy rain and strong winds most likely affecting northern and northwestern regions. Southern areas may experience drier but chilly weather.   Advice: - Dress warmly; temperatures will be unseasonably cold across much of the UK, including regions usually spared from freezing weather in April. - Travel cautiously; expect frosty roads and reduced visibility in affected areas. Allow extra time for commutes. - Monitor forecasts; check the Met Office website https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/ for live updates on temperature drops and potential storm conditions. - Prepare for rain; residents in the North and North West should anticipate heavy rain and gusty winds, increasing the risk of local flooding. - Check heating systems; ensure your home heating works efficiently, especially if located in southern or eastern England where freezing conditions are less common.  

Karuma Bridge, a critical link on the Gulu-Kampala highway, is temporarily closed to all traffic for the installation of expansion joints, according to the Ministry of Works and Transport. The closure, expected to last three weeks, follows previous rehabilitation efforts on the 61-year-old bridge after engineers discovered structural faults. During the closure, motorists are advised to use alternative routes.   Advice: - Avoid Karuma Bridge; use the designated alternative routes to minimize delays. - The alternative routes for motorists from Kampala to Gulu/West Nile are via Luwero – Kafu – Masindi – Paraa (Murchison Falls National Park) – Pakwach or Gulu via Olwiyo (and vice versa). Meanwhile, motorists plying from Kampala to Lira can use the Iganga – Nakalama – Tirinyi – Pallisa – Kumi – Soroti – Lira routes (and vice versa). - Exercise caution; roads through Murchison Falls National Park may have wildlife and limited services. - Allow extra travel time; detours may cause increased congestion and longer travel durations. - Monitor official updates; follow the Ministry of Works and Transport for announcements on the reopening.  

South Sudan is facing its worst cholera outbreak since gaining independence. Nine out of ten states are affected, with Jonglei State reporting the highest number of cases. The outbreak is worsening in Upper Nile State, where ongoing violence has displaced 50,000 people since February and forced the closure of a cholera treatment unit in Nasir County, limiting access to care.   Advice: - Avoid untreated water sources- drink only boiled or bottled water. - Avoid raw or unwashed foods. - Maintain strict hygiene and wash hands frequently with soap, especially before eating and after using the toilet. - Seek medical care immediately if you experience diarrhea, vomiting, or dehydration- cholera can be fatal without prompt treatment. - Limit travel to Jonglei and Upper Nile due to high infection rates and reduced medical services. - Follow updates from UNICEF, MSF, and local health authorities for real-time outbreak information and treatment availability.  

A truck carrying gas cylinders caught fire near the Dharavi bus depot, leading to multiple explosions and causing widespread panic in the area. Twelve cylinders have exploded so far, with over 30 cylinders reportedly still at risk. The fire brigade is actively working to control the blaze, and relief efforts are underway. Currently, no casualties have been reported.   Advice: - Avoid the Dharavi area, especially near the bus depot and Nature Park, due to ongoing explosions and fire hazards. - Stay indoors if nearby, and keep windows closed to avoid exposure to smoke and toxic fumes. - Use alternative routes- avoid Sion-Bandra Link Road and Mahim-Sion Road to steer clear of the affected zone. - Report emergencies to the Mumbai Fire Brigade at 101 or the Mumbai Police at 100. - Monitor local news; follow Mumbai Live, Times of India, and local FM stations (e.g., 93.5 Red FM) for real-time updates and safety advisories.  

A 48-hour public transport strike in Berlin is scheduled from 03:00 on March 26 until 03:00 on March 28, 2025, following failed negotiations between the Verdi trade union and Berliner Verkehrsbetrieben (BVG). This will mark the fourth BVG strike this year, causing significant disruptions to city transportation. Affected Services: - Suspended: All U-Bahn (subway) trains, trams, and most city buses. - Operating Bus Lines: 106, 114, 118, 133, 161, 168, 175, 179, 204, 218, 234, 263, 275, 316, 318, 320, 326, 334, 349, 358, 363, 380, N12, N23, N35, N39, N53, N61, N63, N69, N84, N91, N95, N97. - Limited Service: Lines 112, 124, 184, 744, 893, N68, X36. - Unaffected: S-Bahn trains (operated by Deutsche Bahn), public transport ferries, and the BVG Muva service.   Advice: - Expect severe disruptions across Berlin’s public transport network, particularly on U-Bahn and tram services. Plan alternative travel methods during the strike period. - Use operational bus lines where available, but anticipate delays and potential crowding. - Consider alternative transportation such as taxis, ride-hailing services (e.g., Uber or Bolt), or private car rentals to mitigate disruptions. - Monitor official updates through BVG’s website http://bvg.de or local news sources for real-time service changes and strike developments. - Allow extra travel time if connecting to long-distance trains or flights. Consider alternative routes to major hubs such as Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER).  

Brussels Airport has announced that all departing passenger flights will be cancelled on March 31 due to a nationwide general strike. The strike is in protest against the new government's proposed labour market and pension reforms, and will cause significant disruptions to airport operations. Affected airlines, including Brussels Airlines, will contact passengers directly. The airport advises all travelers not to come to the airport on that day. Key Impacts: - Flight Cancellations: All 244 departing flights from Brussels Airport on March 31 are cancelled. - Arriving Flights: Possible disruptions and cancellations may also affect inbound flights. - Airport Operations: Major disruptions are expected due to work stoppages by security staff and ground handling personnel.   Advice: - Confirm the latest status of your flight with your airline or via the Brussels Airport website/app https://www.brusselsairport.be/en. - Expect potential disruptions in global flight schedules due to the closure. - Explore alternative forms of transportation, such as buses or trains, especially for cross-border travel during the strike period.​  

As of March 24, the wildfire in Onyang-eup, Ulju-gun, Ulsan, has been ongoing for three days, beginning on March 21. Strong winds and dry conditions are hindering firefighting efforts. The blaze has resulted in the deaths of 13 people while 162 buildings have been damaged or destroyed, affecting approximately 8,732 hectares of forest across five zones.   Advice: - Avoid affected areas and stay clear of wooded and smoky zones for health and safety. - Follow evacuation instructions and remain in safe, well-ventilated areas. - If you are in an evacuation area, seek shelter in designated temporary accommodations. - Stay informed through official channels and follow local authorities' guidance.  

Due to the ongoing heavy rainy season, the Metropolitan Emergency Operations Committee has declared a state of emergency in the Mariscal Sucre, Itchimbía, and Cumbayá parishes. Severe weather conditions are expected to persist into April, increasing the risk of landslides and road damage. In response, authorities are taking proactive measures, including road interventions, traffic management, and reinforcement of public lighting.   Advice: - Avoid affected areas and postpone non-essential travel. - Follow official traffic detours and measures. - Be cautious around steep slopes and areas prone to landslides. - Stay informed through official channels for updates. - Monitor weather forecasts and local authorities for evacuation orders if necessary.  

Pro-Palestinian groups are planning a protest march toward the Israeli Embassy in Brussels on March 25 at 16:30 local time. The march will begin at Avenue Paul Héger, located at the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB). Hundreds of participants are expected to join the protest. Organizers urge attendees to wear masks and anticipate interactions with local law enforcement.   Advice: - Expect increased police presence, road closures, and traffic disruptions near the Israeli Embassy and ULB area. - Avoid the protest route and plan alternative travel paths to minimize delays. - Do not engage with protesters or bystanders. If tensions rise, leave the area immediately. - Monitor local news and official channels for real-time updates and security advisories.