News & Reports

Traffic disruptions are reported along the M4 highway in Durban, South Africa, due to flooding in the Congella and Jacobs areas on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. The flooding has caused significant delays and hazardous driving conditions in affected regions.   Advice: Avoid traveling on the M4 highway and surrounding areas until conditions improve. Use alternative routes and monitor updates from local traffic authorities for real-time information. Exercise caution if driving through waterlogged areas to ensure safety.  

Brazilian authorities have declared a state of emergency in São Paulo due to a severe dengue outbreak, with nearly 125,000 confirmed cases reported since the beginning of 2025. The outbreak is exacerbated by the reemergence of dengue serotype 3 (DENV-3), which has not circulated widely in Brazil since 2008, leaving much of the population vulnerable. São Paulo accounts for nearly 60% of the country’s cases, alongside 49 confirmed deaths and hundreds more under investigation   Advice: Travelers to São Paulo and other affected regions should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, including using insect repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and staying in accommodations with screened windows or air conditioning. Monitor updates from local health authorities and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as fever, rash, or joint pain develop.  

Road blockades have been reported in Ecatepec de Morelos, Mexico, as part of protests over alleged sexual abuse of two minors in Zimapán, Hidalgo. Key routes, including Vía Morelos and the Mexico-Pachuca highway, have been affected, causing significant traffic disruptions. The protests come amid heightened public outrage and demands for justice.   Advice: Avoid traveling through Ecatepec and surrounding areas until blockades are lifted. Plan alternative routes if necessary, and monitor local news for updates on road conditions and the progress of the protests.  

The Met Office has issued multiple weather warnings for Friday, February 21, 2025, as strong winds of up to 70 mph are expected to impact parts of Northern Ireland, southwest Scotland, and Wales. Heavy rain is also forecast, with up to 70 mm possible over higher ground in Scotland. Other areas of the UK will see blustery and wet conditions, while southeastern England is expected to remain drier with temperatures reaching highs of 16°C.   Advice: Avoid unnecessary travel in areas under weather warnings and secure loose outdoor items to prevent wind damage. Stay updated with Met Office warnings and prepare for potential disruptions caused by strong winds and heavy rain. For those in southeastern England, enjoy the milder weather but remain cautious of changing conditions over the weekend.  

Severe weather is forecast across Tanzania's Rukwa, Mbeya, and Iringa provinces until February 24, with expected heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds. Flooding may occur in low-lying areas, while landslides are possible in hilly regions. Urban flooding could disrupt transport, utilities, and business operations. Travel disruptions are likely on roads, railways, and airports. Power outages are plausible throughout the affected areas.   Advice: Verify all travel reservations and check road conditions before leaving. Allow for possible travel delays and supply chain disruptions in flood-affected areas. Avoid driving on flooded roads, and ensure battery-powered devices are charged in case of extended power outages. Check local media outlets for further updates and advisories.  

On February 22 at 10:30, nationwide protests led by animal rights organizations will occur across Ecuador. Activists are set to assemble in prominent public areas and along key transport routes in cities including Quito, Guayaquil, Santo Domingo, Loja, Riobamba, Machala, Manta, Ambato, and Ibarra, with potential for additional demonstrations elsewhere. Authorities are expected to deploy a heightened security presence, and significant traffic and pedestrian movement disruptions are likely.   Advice: Avoid protest sites due to potential disruptions and altercations. Plan alternate routes and allow extra travel time. Expect local disruptions and heightened security in affected areas.  

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators intend to gather at Berlin's Leopoldplatz on February 19 at 15:00. Around 1,500 participants are expected to join the protest. Heightened security measures and localized transport disruptions are likely in the surrounding area. Counter-demonstrations remain a possibility.   Advice: Avoid the protest site as a safety measure. Consider alternate routes and prepare for possible travel delays in the area. Adhere to official instructions, refrain from discussions on related geopolitical topics, and exit immediately if tensions escalate.  

Taxi drivers in Athens have been on strike since 6:00 today (local time) in a 24-hour protest demanding higher wages and better working conditions. The strike is expected to cause significant disruptions to taxi services across the city, leading to potential traffic congestion throughout.   Advice: Plan and prepare for traffic congestion and increased demand for alternative forms of public transport throughout Athens.  

Australian authorities have issued a major flood warning for the lower Flinders River at Walkers Bend, Queensland, with flooding expected to continue through the end of the week. The flooding may cause road closures and power outages. The situation is being closely monitored, and regular updates will be provided through local news and official channels.   Advice: Avoid driving or walking through floodwaters, secure important belongings, and be prepared to evacuate if advised by authorities. Seek higher ground if necessary to ensure your safety.  

From February 18 to 21, the National Liberation Army (ELN) enforced an armed strike in Chocó, Colombia, causing road blockages, mass displacements, and severe mobility restrictions. The ELN claims to expose alleged state-paramilitary alliances while blaming the government for the rise of the Clan del Golfo. The conflict over the strategic San Juan River has escalated violence, with reports of forced child recruitment, landmines, and human rights violations.   Advice: Avoid traveling on affected roads and remain indoors whenever possible during the ELN’s armed strike from February 18 to 21. Stay informed through reliable sources, follow local authorities' guidance, and seek shelter in safe areas.