News & Reports

Power constraints have been reported in Hursthill SDC, and customers are urged to reduce electricity consumption to prevent further strain on the system. Inclement weather may cause delays in restoration efforts. Crews have partially restored power in Craighall Park, but eight load centers remain offline, with teams on-site investigating the issue.   Advice: If you are in the affected areas, limit non-essential electricity use to help prevent further strain on the power system. Keep flashlights, power banks, and backup batteries charged in case of extended outages. Be cautious on the roads, as some traffic lights may not be functioning due to the power disruption. Crews are working on restoring power, but weather conditions may cause delays in repairs. Stay informed by following Hursthill SDC’s WhatsApp channel and report individual outages through City Power or their helpline.  

Heavy flooding has been reported in Johannesburg, with floodwaters inundating roads in the Newlands area. Local first responders have shared footage of submerged streets, warning motorists of hazardous driving conditions across the city. Additional flood-prone areas may see rising water levels as rainfall continues.   Advice: If you are in a flood-prone area, move to higher ground and avoid basements or low-lying structures where water can rise quickly. Do not drive through flooded roads, as even shallow water can sweep vehicles away; instead, use alternative routes and stay updated on road closures. Pedestrians should avoid walking through moving water, as currents can be stronger than they appear. If your home is at risk, seek shelter in public buildings or higher ground and keep emergency supplies like flashlights and charged phones ready. Stay informed through Johannesburg emergency services, or if you are in an emergency, dial 112.  

A large crowd has gathered in Syntagma Square for a new demonstration protesting the Tempe train crash. The rally is part of ongoing public outcry over railway safety concerns following the deadly collision. Increased security measures and potential traffic disruptions are expected in central Athens.   Advice: If you are near Syntagma Square, follow police instructions and be aware of crowd movement. Avoid the immediate area to allow emergency services and public transport to operate smoothly. Those needing alternative routes can use Evangelismos Metro Station (Line 3) or Monastiraki Station (Lines 1 & 3). Public transport delays and road closures are possible, so plan accordingly. Stay updated through local authorities and Athens public transportation services for real-time developments.  

A cholera outbreak in Yirol East and Awerial Counties has resulted in 22 deaths and 488 reported cases, according to health officials. While 461 people have recovered, new cases continue to emerge, particularly in island communities with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. Health teams are working to provide safe drinking water, treatment, and vaccinations to control the outbreak.   Advice: If you are in the affected areas, drink only boiled or treated water and avoid consuming raw or unwashed food. Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom. Seek immediate medical care if experiencing symptoms such as severe diarrhea, vomiting, or dehydration. Authorities are preparing a vaccination campaign, and residents should follow health officials’ guidance for prevention and treatment. Stay updated through South Sudan’s Ministry of Health and WHO for further developments.  

The local utility company has reported widespread power outages in Buenos Aires due to a failure in a high-voltage transmission line. Restoration efforts are currently underway, but there is no estimated time for full service recovery.   Advice: If you are in an affected area, limit electricity use on backup power sources and avoid using elevators in case of sudden outages. Traffic signals may be non-functional, so pedestrians and drivers should exercise caution at intersections. Keep flashlights and mobile devices charged, and check with your local utility provider for updates on restoration progress. Those needing a place with power can visit shopping centers, hotels, or public buildings in unaffected districts. Stay updated through official government sources and utility company announcements for further developments.

The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued a yellow warning for heavy rainfall in Madrid between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM local time on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. Persistent showers may lead to localized flooding in low-lying areas.   Advice: If you are in low-lying or flood-prone areas, move to higher ground and avoid basements or underground parking, as they may flood quickly. Avoid unnecessary travel, but if you must go out, use main roads and check public transport updates for possible delays. When driving, reduce speed, keep headlights on, and avoid flooded streets to prevent accidents. For shelter, consider shopping centers, cafés, or public buildings, avoid parks and open spaces due to falling branches and waterlogging. Stay informed through AEMET, Madrid emergency services, and official social media channels for real-time updates.  

The WHO reported an Ebola outbreak in Uganda from the Sudan virus, with 12 cases and two deaths in multiple districts as of February 28, 2025, and no approved vaccine or treatment available. Symptoms like fever, fatigue, and bleeding have led Uganda’s Ministry of Health and WHO to launch response teams, vaccination trials, and surveillance. The CDC’s Level 2 Travel Notice recommends avoiding sick people, maintaining hygiene, and monitoring symptoms for 21 days post-travel.   Advice: If you are in or near the affected Ugandan districts, follow health authorities' guidance and take necessary precautions. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after public interactions. Avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms such as fever, fatigue, or bleeding. If you develop symptoms within 21 days of potential exposure, seek medical attention immediately and inform healthcare providers of your travel history. Travelers should monitor their health closely and follow CDC recommendations. Stay updated through Uganda’s Ministry of Health and WHO for real-time information on containment efforts.  

Anti-corruption protests continue across Serbia, with tensions escalating in both political institutions and the streets. On March 4, opposition lawmakers set off smoke bombs inside the National Assembly, forcing a session to adjourn and injuring three MPs. This marks the second such disruption in recent weeks. Meanwhile, protesters in Novi Sad and Zaječar have clashed with riot police and attempted to storm government buildings. Demonstrations initially triggered by a deadly train station collapse in November 2024 have since grown into broader unrest, with more protests likely in the coming days.   Advice: Avoid protest areas, as large crowds and gatherings may escalate into clashes. Do not attempt to pass through roadblocks; wait until officials clear them. Monitor local updates and follow security advisories. If caught in unrest, seek shelter indoors and avoid confrontations.  

Nine people died, and 49 were injured in separate road accidents in Dodoma and Morogoro in two days. A collision near Dodoma on March 3 involved a bus and a cargo truck, resulting in six fatalities. Additionally, three people died in a crash between two trucks on the Morogoro Dar es Salaam highway on March 4.   Advice: When traveling on Tanzanian roads, exercise extreme caution. Always follow traffic laws, avoid speeding, and ensure that vehicles are well-maintained. It is advisable to avoid traveling at night due to reduced visibility. Make sure that vehicles are in good condition and that drivers are well-rested. In case of an emergency, contact local authorities immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.  

On March 5, 2025, violent protests erupted in Nairobi's Majengo and Pumwani areas following the fatal shooting of a 17-year-old boy by police during an operation on March 4. In response, residents set ablaze two police vehicles, the area chief's office, and the Majengo Police Station. The unrest has led to significant disruptions, including road blockages and business closures, particularly affecting the Gikomba market.   Advice: Avoid the Majengo and Pumwani areas until the situation stabilizes. If you are in the vicinity, remain indoors and secure your premises. If violence occurs near you, leave immediately and find safe shelter. Follow all local authority instructions. In case of an emergency, contact local emergency services immediately.