News & Reports

The Association of Health Professionals in Sri Lanka has announced a 24-hour strike commencing at 7:00 AM local time on March 18, 2025, following unsuccessful negotiations with Ministry of Health officials. The strike will affect various healthcare services nationwide, except for emergency medical services. ​ Advice: - If you have scheduled medical appointments or procedures on March 18, contact your healthcare provider to confirm or reschedule, as services may be disrupted.​ - Emergency medical services will remain operational; in case of urgent medical needs, proceed to the nearest hospital or dial emergency services.​ - Monitor local news and official health department communications for updates on the strike and the resumption of regular healthcare services.  

Pro-Palestine activists are organizing a rally at Times Square in New York City on March 18, starting at 6:00 PM local time (10:00 PM GMT), to protest the recent resumption of Israeli military operations across Gaza. Previous demonstrations in the area have drawn significant crowds; for instance, over 700 Pro-Palestine protesters marched from Times Square to Columbus Circle on March 15.   Advice: - Anticipate increased police presence and potential road closures around Times Square during the rally; consider alternative routes or allow extra travel time.​ - If in the vicinity of the protest, avoid engaging in political discussions with protesters or bystanders.​ - Monitor local traffic and transit updates for reroutes or delays. - If tensions escalate, leave the area immediately to ensure personal safety.  

A large-scale protest is scheduled to take place in Washington, D.C., on April 5. Organizers expect a significant turnout, and authorities may implement road closures, public transit changes, and heightened security measures in the area.   Advice: - Plan Ahead: Expect traffic congestion and possible delays on public transport. Check updates from WMATA for Metro service changes. - Avoid Crowded Areas: If not attending, steer clear of protest zones to prevent disruptions. - Follow Security Instructions: Police presence will be high; comply with official guidance. - Stay Updated: Monitor local news for any changes to event details or safety advisories. - Emergency Contacts: In case of urgent issues, call 911 for emergency services.  

Thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail are expected to affect Upper Thailand, with temperatures anticipated to drop by 3-5°C. Authorities warn that these conditions may lead to reduced visibility on roads, localized disruptions, and potential property damage.   Advice : - Stay indoors if possible during severe weather, and secure loose outdoor items. - ⁠Travelers should check for road closures and delays, especially in hilly or mountainous areas. - ⁠Follow real-time updates from the Thai Meteorological Department (www.tmd.go.th) for the latest alerts. - ⁠In case of emergency, call 191 for police assistance or 199 for fire services and rescue.  

Severe flooding and deadly landslides have put Florence and Pisa on high alert as heavy rains continue to batter the region. Rivers have overflowed, homes are submerged, and emergency crews are working tirelessly to rescue stranded residents. Authorities warn that additional rainfall in the coming days could increase the risk of further devastation.   Advice: - Be cautious of flash floods and landslides, especially in low-lying and unstable areas. - Travelers should check for road closures and transport disruptions before heading out. - Follow local weather updates from Protezione Civile (www.protezionecivile.gov.it) for real-time alerts. - In case of emergency, call 112 for immediate assistance.  

The Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) forecasts heavy rainfall and thunderstorms from March 17, with risks of flooding. Andalucía, particularly Málaga, Cádiz, and Sevilla, are under orange and yellow alerts, expecting up to 80 mm of rain in 12 hours. Extremadura and Castilla-La Mancha will also face significant rainfall, and heavy rain is anticipated in Valencia and Castellón on March 18.   Advice: - Given road closures and hazardous conditions, limit non-essential travel, especially in the affected provinces.​ - Exercise Caution Near Water Bodies; rivers and streams may swell rapidly; avoid these areas due to flooding risks.​ - Be prepared for potential disruptions in services, including transportation and utilities, due to adverse weather conditions. - Prepare for power outages by charging essential devices and having alternative light sources available. - Monitor updates from AEMET (see attached link) and local authorities for the latest weather information and advisories. https://www.aemet.es/en/eltiempo/prediccion/avisos    

This update follows a prior alert regarding the severe weather impacting the central and southern U.S. since March 15. A powerful storm system has caused widespread devastation, resulting in at least 33 fatalities across six states, with violent tornadoes, wildfires, and dust storms. The most severe damage occurred in Missouri (12 deaths), Kansas (8 deaths), and Mississippi (6 deaths), while additional fatalities were reported in Arkansas, Texas, and Oklahoma.   Advice: -Avoid non-essential travel due to hazardous conditions, including downed power lines and road closures. - Remain indoors and seek shelter during tornado warnings. - Stay informed through local authorities and weather services for real-time updates. - Prepare for power outages by having backup light sources and fully charged devices. - Avoid driving in areas with severe weather, as visibility may be limited due to dust storms and flooding. - Follow evacuation orders if issued by local authorities, especially in fire-affected areas.  

Cuba is facing a significant power outage that began on March 15, due to a failure at a substation near Havana. This is the fourth major blackout in the last six months, linked to the country’s ongoing economic crisis. Power is gradually being restored in several provinces. Essential services, such as hospitals, have been given priority for electricity, but some areas of the island still remain without power. Internet and telephone services are also experiencing intermittent disruptions. Authorities estimate that the remaining power units will be reactivated by the end of the day.   Advice: - Stock up on drinking water, non-perishable food, and essential medical supplies. -Keep electronic devices charged and have flashlights, batteries, and portable generators available. -Limit refrigerator and freezer openings to avoid spoilage. -Be cautious at night due to poor lighting. -Avoid unnecessary travel; gas stations may have shortages. -Arrange backup power if you rely on powered medical devices. -Stay updated from the Cuban Electricity Union and local authorities https://x.com/EnergiaMinasCub.  

Political demonstrations are set to occur in Rio de Janeiro on March 16, beginning at 10:00 along Avenida Atlântica at Copacabana Beach. The event is anticipated to attract large crowds and a significant police presence.   Advice: - Avoid the demonstration area to minimize potential disruptions. - Traffic delays and road closures are expected along Avenida Atlantica from the morning through the afternoon. - Plan for potential delays or changes to public transportation services and check local updates before traveling. - If tensions escalate, leave the area immediately to ensure personal safety. - Avoid engaging in political discussions with demonstrators or bystanders. - Follow official instructions and remain aware of your surroundings.  

The Peruvian government has extended the Inca Trail closure from March 16 to March 31 due to heavy rainfall causing landslides. The Salkantay Trek is also closed indefinitely after landslides stranded hikers. Humantay Lake has limited access due to landslides. However, the Panoramic Trail (Route 1A) within Machu Picchu is closed due to landslides.   Advice: - Reconsider travel plans to affected areas and follow local authority guidance. - Use alternative routes to Machu Picchu, such as such as the train to Aguas Calientes and confirm itinerary changes with tour operators. -Stay prepared: Carry emergency supplies, including food, water, and first aid kits. -Monitor official updates from Peruvian agencies for changing conditions.