News & Reports

11

March 2025

Security Alert

Caution

Country: Belgium

Location: Brussels

Shots erupted late Monday night (~11:45 PM) in Forest, wounding one person in the arm and back with a suspected war weapon—30+ shell casings found. The shooter(s) fled, evading police who’ve cordoned off the area. No deaths reported, but the hunt for the perpetrator(s) is on, with the motive unclear.   Advice: - Rapid gunefire signals a live threat—unpredictable and dangerous. - If in Forest, avoid Rue de Mérode and Pierre Decoster; the shooter(s) remain at large. - Do not travel near the intersection—Chaussée de Neerstalle or Avenue Wielemans Ceuppens may be blocked; detour via E19 or check Brussels Police updates. - Pedestrians, stick to main roads like Avenue du Roi—sidestep dark side streets where risks lurk. -If nearby, hunker down in a secure spot (hotel, shop) with a phone charged; call 112 if you spot trouble. -Stay sharp via BX1 or local X posts— the situation is fluid, and police are searching the area.  

Topics: Shootings

11

March 2025

Heavy Rainfall Alert

Caution

Country: Thailand

Location: Northern Thailand

The Thai Meteorological Department warns of heavy showers hitting 11 provinces Tuesday, with 40% of these areas facing downpours. Upper Thailand bakes at 39°C, while southern storms bring waves up to 2m in the Gulf and Andaman Sea. No casualties reported yet, but the cause of the intense weather—easterly winds and low pressure—remains active.   Advice: - Heavy rain can trigger flash floods and road hazards fast, especially in low-lying zones. - If in listed provinces, avoid flood-prone spots like coastal roads or riverbanks near Surat Thani or Phuket. - Do not travel on Routes 41 or 44 in the south—flooding may close them; detour via Route 4 or check TMD updates (tmd.go.th) for road status. - Pedestrians should skip shortcuts—stick to elevated, drained paths to dodge sudden water surges. - If near the coast, shelter in sturdy buildings like hotels, with rain gear and a charged phone handy. - Stay updated via Thaiger News or TMD, and call 191 if in danger. Mariners, avoid stormy seas—waves exceed 2m.  

Topics: Severe Weather

11

March 2025

Explosion and Fire

Caution

Country: Vietnam

Location: Hanoi

Residents in Nam Tu Liem and Ha Dong districts awoke to loud explosions at 3am Tuesday from a fire at a scrap yard near Thang Long Avenue. Witnesses report black smoke rising dozens of meters near the Me Tri overpass and consecutive blasts from pressure tanks, audible 4km away. Hanoi’s Fire Prevention and Rescue Police controlled the blaze, reporting no casualties, though the cause remains under investigation.   Advice: - Fires with explosives can unleash sudden hazards, threatening nearby areas. - If in Nam Tu Liem or Ha Dong, avoid the Thang Long Avenue zone near Me Tri Thuong to dodge smoke and potential flare-ups. - Do not travel near the scrap yard—roads like Thang Long Avenue or Me Tri overpass may be blocked; detour via Route 32 or check Hanoi Police updates for access. - Pedestrians should stay upwind of smoke—toxic fumes spread fast; keep to elevated, clear paths. - If close by, shelter in a sealed building like a hotel, with water and a mask handy for air quality. - Stay tuned to Hanoi City Police reports, and dial 113 if in danger. The fire’s contained, but risks linger.  

Topics: Explosions

11

March 2025

Protest Escalation Alert

Caution

Country: Serbia

Location: Belgrade

UPDATE: SERBIA   March 10: Protest Escalation Alert   📍Location: Belgrade, Takovska 10 (RTS Building)   Protests outside Radio and Television of Serbia (RTS) have turned violent, with 1,200 demonstrators clashing with police Monday evening. Minister Ivica Dacic reports an unannounced gathering blocked gendarmerie entry, attacking an officer—sparking conflict dubbed “vandalism.” Police are inside at Takovska 10, poised to intervene if breached, with accountability promised via camera footage.   Advice: - Protests can flare unpredictably, risking injury amid police crackdowns. - If near Takovska 10, avoid the RTS vicinity as tensions spike and violence escalates. - Do not travel through central Belgrade—roads like Takovska or Bulevar Kralja Aleksandra may be disrupted; detour via E-75 or check Belgrade police updates for blockages. - Pedestrians should steer clear of protest zones—crowds and police lines pose hazards; use main, lit routes instead. - If caught nearby, seek shelter in a secure spot like a hotel or shop, keeping emergency contacts and a charged phone ready. - Stay informed via Serbian Interior Ministry channels, and call 192 if in immediate danger. The situation remains volatile, with police on high alert.  

Topics: Protests

10

March 2025

Cholera Outbreak

Caution

Country: Ethiopia

Location: Oromia Region

The Ethiopian Ministry of Health and international organizations have confirmed a cholera outbreak affecting multiple regions, including Somali and Oromia. The outbreak has led to several reported cases, with efforts underway to contain the spread through water, sanitation, and hygiene interventions.   Advice: - Boil Water: Only drink water that has been boiled or purified. - Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom. - Seek Medical Attention: If you experience severe diarrhea or vomiting, seek medical help immediately. - Stay Informed: Follow updates from local health authorities or via the Relief Web.  

Topics: Outbreaks

10

March 2025

Heightened Security Around Sydney Synagogues

Warning

Country: Australia

Location: Sydney, New South Wales

Authorities have increased security near synagogues and Jewish community centers in Sydney following an alleged attack plot that police now believe was fabricated by organized crime groups. Despite no immediate threat, law enforcement remains on high alert, with additional patrols and security measures in place.   Advice : - Expect Heightened Security: Increased police presence and potential road closures near religious sites. - Report Suspicious Activity: Contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or local authorities if you notice anything unusual. - Plan for Delays: Extra security screenings may cause delays near synagogues and high-traffic areas. - Stay Updated: Follow NSW Police and local news for real-time updates  

Topics: SecuritySafety

10

March 2025

Weather Alert

Caution

Country: Italy

Location: Lazio, Campania, Molise, and Piedmont

Meteorological officials have issued orange weather warnings for thunderstorms across Lazio, Campania, and Molise regions, effective through the morning hours of March 11. These storms may bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential hail. Additionally, an orange warning for heavy rainfall has been issued for the Piedmont region during the same period, with expected persistent downpours that could lead to localized flooding.   Advice: Exercise caution if traveling in affected regions and consider postponing non-essential travel due to potential road closures and hazards such as flooding. Check road conditions before traveling, do not attempt to cross flooded streets, and refrain from driving through flooded roads. Ensure mobile phones and other essential battery-powered devices remain fully charged to stay prepared for extended power outages. Stay informed by following local news and official advisories for real-time updates.  

Topics: Severe WeatherFloods

10

March 2025

Health Alert – Cholera Outbreak

Caution

Country: Ethiopia

Location: Gambella Region

A cholera outbreak is significantly affecting the Gambella region where, as of March 8, 2025, 1,320 cases and 29 deaths have been reported since the beginning of February 2025, with an average Case Fatality Rate of 2.2%. The most impacted districts are Wantawo and Akobo. Additionally, cholera cases have been identified in four refugee camps within the region.   Advice: Make sure you are vaccinated against Cholera. Practice good hygiene; wash your hands with soap and clean water, especially before eating and after using the restroom. Boil or treat water before consumption to eliminate potential contaminants. Eat thoroughly cooked foods and avoid raw or undercooked items. Seek prompt medical attention if experiencing symptoms like severe diarrhea or vomiting. For more information on Cholera, check the attached link. https://www.cdc.gov/cholera/  

Topics: Health

10

March 2025

Heat Alert

Caution

Country: South Sudan

Location: Nationwide

The IGAD Climate Prediction and Application Center (ICPAC) forecasts that extreme heat conditions will persist throughout March in South Sudan, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 40°C. These conditions pose significant health risks, including dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. The Ministry of Education has extended the closure of all schools until March 17 due to heat-related illnesses.   Advice: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration. Stay indoors in well-ventilated or air-conditioned spaces when possible. Limit outdoor activities and avoid strenuous tasks during peak heat hours, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM. Be vigilant for symptoms of heat-related illnesses, such as dizziness or nausea, and seek immediate medical attention.  

Topics: Heat Waves

10

March 2025

Tropical Storm Jude Alert

Warning

Country: Malawi

Location: Southern and Central Regions of Malawi

Tropical Storm Jude is intensifying and is set to affect 13 districts in Malawi's Southern and Central Regions, bringing heavy rainfall of over 100mm and damaging winds. The storm will make landfall in Mozambique between Beira and Nampula by early March 10, with impacts reaching Malawi within 12 hours. The districts facing the most significant risk include Mulanje, Phalombe, Chiradzulu, Thyolo, Zomba, Blantyre, Balaka, Ntcheu, Machinga, Neno, Mwanza, Nsanje, and Chikwawa. Residents in flood-prone and low-lying areas of Southern Malawi should be on high alert for potential flooding.   Advice: Avoid non-essential travel in affected regions, as conditions may deteriorate rapidly. Do not attempt to drive or walk through floodwaters; instead, use alternative routes and stay updated on road closures. Ensure you have an emergency kit, including essential documents, medications, and supplies. In case of power outages, have alternative light sources and keep devices charged. If your home is at risk, seek shelter in public buildings or higher ground and follow official evacuation orders. For the latest updates, visit the DCCMS official website at the attached link. https://www.metmalawi.gov.mw/products/daily-forecast/weather-forecast-10th-march-2025/  

Topics: Winter Storms