News & Reports

A collision between two buses on Avinguda Diagonal has left more than 30 people injured, with two in critical condition. Emergency responders are on the scene.   Advice: If you are near Avinguda Diagonal, expect major traffic congestion and delays. Avoid the area and use alternate routes such as Gran Via or Carrer de Mallorca. If using public transport, check for possible bus detours or delays before heading out. If you are in the affected area, follow directions from emergency personnel and stay clear of the crash site. If you need to travel through Barcelona, allow extra time for delays.  

Opposition activists plan to march from the Philharmonic Hall in Tbilisi to Parliament along Rustaveli Avenue at 8:00 PM local time (4:00 PM GMT) today (March 3). This demonstration aims to protest the imprisonment of protesters who participated in earlier demonstrations against the government's suspension of Georgia's European Union (EU) membership bid.   Advice: Avoid large crowds, protest sites, and surrounding areas to minimize disruptions and potential violence. Anticipate increased security and transport disruptions near demonstrations. If violence occurs, leave immediately and find safe shelter. Follow all local authority instructions.  

On March 3, a vehicle drove into a crowd at a parade in central Mannheim, resulting in one death and multiple injuries. The suspect is in custody, and authorities have confirmed a significant response to the incident. This occurred during carnival celebrations across Germany and follows recent violent attacks, including car rammings in Magdeburg and Munich and a stabbing in Mannheim in May 2024.   Advice: Avoid the area to allow emergency responders to operate. Exercise caution at crowded public events, as such gatherings have been targeted in the past. If caught in a similar incident, move away from danger, seek shelter, and follow instructions from emergency personnel. Stay updated through official channels for further information.  

Since March 2, over 175 wildfires have ignited across North and South Carolina, leading to mandatory evacuations and significant property damage. Approximately 1,700 hectares (4,200 acres) have been affected so far. Residents in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Tryon, North Carolina, have been evacuated. The wildfires are currently 30% contained. A state of emergency was declared on March 2 for South Carolina. Over the next 24 hours, according to the JRC Global Wildfire Information System (GWIS), the fire danger forecast is from low to locally very high in South and North Carolina.   Advice: Evacuate immediately if in an affected area. Follow official instructions and use designated evacuation routes. Stay indoors in non-evacuation areas to minimize exposure to smoke.  

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for heavy snowfall and rainfall across the Chamba, Kangra, and Lahaul-Spiti districts in Himachal Pradesh until March 4. Heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning are expected.   Advice: Avoid non-essential travel to the affected regions. Exercise caution in mountainous areas due to heightened avalanche risks. Allow for possible travel delays and supply chain disruptions in affected areas. Ensure battery-powered devices are charged in case of extended power outages.  

The Philippines Weather officials (PAGASA) warned of second-highest danger level heat conditions, where heat cramps and exhaustion are likely, and heat strokes possible with continued exposure. The affected areas include Metro Manila and Central Luzon, particularly Caloocan and Malabon, and the warning is in effect until March 4. Forecasts predict heat indices could reach up to 46°C in Quezon City and Pampanga, and 45°C in Nueva Ecija.   Advice: Minimize outdoor activities, especially during peak heat hours. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Be vigilant for symptoms of heat-related illnesses, such as dizziness or nausea, and seek immediate medical attention. For official weather updates, check the attached link. https://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/weather/heat-index  

South African health officials have reported three new cases of Mpox in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, raising the total to 28. This outbreak has been classified as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Officials urge the public to stay informed and take preventive measures, though there is no immediate cause for panic.   Advice: Maintain good hygiene by washing your hands with soap or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid close contact with individuals who exhibit symptoms and with contaminated objects or animals. If you experience fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes, seek medical attention promptly. Stay informed by following official health updates.  

Peruvian authorities have announced the temporary closure of the Inca Trail Network from March 1 to March 15 due to intense rainfall, which has heightened the risk of landslides and flooding along the route. The closure is necessary for visitor safety and trail conservation efforts. The trail will reopen based on weather conditions and safety inspections.   Advice: Travelers should adjust travel plans and consider alternative routes to Machu Picchu, such as traveling by train to Aguas Calientes. Exercise caution when traveling in the region, as heavy rains may continue to affect infrastructure. Follow official updates from local authorities regarding the reopening timeline.  

A pro-Palestinian protest is planned outside the Mobile World Congress on March 3 at 08:30, targeting the presence of Israeli companies and firms linked to Israel's security forces and tech industry. Demonstrators are expected to gather at Plaza de Europa, potentially causing transport disruptions and heightened security measures.   Advice: To avoid disruptions, steer clear of the protest area. If attending MWC, allow extra travel time and consider alternative routes. Stay aware of your surroundings and crowd movements, and monitor local news for real-time updates. Avoid distractions like wearing headphones, and keep a low profile by not displaying Jewish or Israeli symbols. If tensions rise, leave the area immediately without engaging with demonstrators.  

The South African Weather Service has issued a Level 5 warning for heavy rain and flooding in KwaZulu-Natal through March 2 and 3. In the past two months, more than 20 people have lost their lives due to severe flooding. The ongoing rains pose a significant threat to both lives and infrastructure, resulting in damage worth hundreds of millions of rands. Roads, clinics, and homes have been severely impacted.   Advice: Authorities urge residents in flood-prone areas to seek higher ground immediately. Avoid flooded roads, rivers, and bridges, and limit travel. Charge your phone for urgent communication, and if conditions worsen, contact emergency services by calling 10111. Stay updated with real-time alerts from the South African Weather Service: https://www.weathersa.co.za/