News & Reports

Severe weather conditions are anticipated across Taiwan until February 14, bringing intense rainfall and sporadic thunderstorms throughout the region. Low-lying areas face a heightened risk of flooding, while landslides may develop in elevated terrains. Urban centers could experience significant disruptions to transportation, utilities, and commercial activities. Travel delays are expected on major roads, railway lines, and airports. Additionally, prolonged power outages may impact areas experiencing the harshest conditions.   Advice: Verify all travel bookings and assess road conditions before setting out. Plan for potential delays and allocate additional travel time, especially in areas impacted by flooding. 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.  

A Scandinavian freeze is set to bring heavy snow to the UK from February 13 to, February 14, 2025. WX Charts predicts a significant snowstorm stretching from Scotland to Sheffield, with snowfall rates of up to 3 cm per hour. The South West and North East of England may also experience heavy snow during this period.   Advice: Travelers should prepare for potential transport disruptions and hazardous driving conditions. Monitor weather updates closely and avoid non-essential travel in affected areas. Ensure vehicles are winter-ready and carry emergency supplies if traveling.  

A tragic bus accident occurred early Monday, February 10, 2025, near Guatemala City when a bus plunged off the Puente Belice bridge into a polluted ravine. At least 51 people have been confirmed dead, with many others injured. The crash followed a collision with other vehicles, and rescue operations are ongoing to recover survivors and victims.   Advice: Travelers in Guatemala City should avoid the area around Puente Belice and expect significant disruptions to local traffic. Exercise caution when using public transport and monitor updates from local authorities for further developments.  

Clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and armed groups, including the National Salvation Front (NAS) and Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO), have escalated in Central and Western Equatoria. Fighting over checkpoints and attacks on army positions have left nine soldiers dead and 18 injured as of February 9, 2025. Civilians have also been targeted, with reports of villages burned and civilian casualties, including children, in Kajo-Keji County.   Advice: Avoid all non-essential travel to Central and Western Equatoria due to ongoing violence and heightened insecurity. Monitor local updates, avoid conflict-prone areas like Kajo-Keji and Nagero County, and remain vigilant for roadblocks or checkpoints. Travelers already in the region should prioritize safety, maintain communication with trusted contacts, and follow guidance from local authorities.  

The U.S. is bracing for a "relentless storm frenzy" as Arctic air masses collide with tropical moisture from the Gulf of Mexico, creating hazardous winter conditions. Over 20 states, particularly in the Midwest, Northeast, and mid-Atlantic, are at risk of significant snowfall, with accumulations of up to 2–3 feet expected in some areas through mid-February. The National Weather Service has issued winter-weather warnings, with travel disruptions and dangerous conditions anticipated.   Advice: Travelers should avoid non-essential travel to affected regions and monitor weather updates from trusted sources like NOAA or AccuWeather. If travel is unavoidable, prepare for delays, carry emergency supplies, and ensure vehicles are winter-ready. Stay informed about local advisories and road closures to prioritize safety during this stormy period.  

Brussels Airport has announced the cancellation of all departing flights on Thursday, February 13, 2025, due to a nationwide strike involving ground handling and security staff. Significant disruptions are expected, with numerous flights canceled or rescheduled, and public transport services may also be affected.   Advice: Travelers should avoid scheduling flights on February 13 and contact their airline for updates on cancellations or rebooking options. If travel is unavoidable, monitor local transport updates and prepare for delays. Consider alternative travel arrangements to minimize disruption.  

Clashes erupted between police and supporters of far-right Romanian presidential candidate Călin Georgescu during a demonstration at Victory Square in Bucharest. This event followed the resignation of President Klaus Iohannis. Local media reported that approximately 600 demonstrators were present. The protest led to confrontations with law enforcement, resulting in several arrests.   Advice: Avoid the Piața Victoriei area due to ongoing protests. Anticipate potential disruptions in public transportation and plan alternative routes accordingly. Monitor local news for updates and follow instructions from authorities.    

Heavy rainfall has led to significant flooding in the MIMAROPA region, particularly affecting Palawan province, where nearly 2,000 residents have been evacuated, with 1,209 individuals currently housed in nine evacuation centers. For the next 24 hours, cloudy skies with scattered rains and isolated thunderstorms are forecast across the Visayas and Mimaropa regions.   Advice: Avoid low-lying coastal areas and waterways to reduce flood risk. Exercise caution if traveling in affected regions. Check road conditions before traveling and refrain from driving through flooded roads. For further updates, see the attached link. https://bagong.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/weather  

Sri Lankan authorities have announced rolling power cuts of 90 minutes from 3:30 pm to 9:30 pm (local time) on February 10-11, following an islandwide outage on February 9. While power has been fully restored, authorities are implementing scheduled cuts to stabilize the grid. The outage also affected internet connectivity.   Advice: Charge electronic devices in advance and have alternative lighting sources available. Consider adjusting travel plans accordingly, as there are potential disruptions to daily activities, including transport and communication.  

Authorities have heightened security at Nyanga taxi rank following an arson attack on February 9, in which 16 minibus taxis were set alight. Police and fire services responded to the scene, and an investigation into the incident is ongoing. Additional police forces have been deployed to maintain order, and strict security measures are still in place.. Despite the incident, the taxi rank remains operational.   Advice: Exercise caution in Nyanga, particularly around the taxi rank. Avoid large gatherings and follow official security instructions. Allow extra travel time due to potential disruptions. If using public transport, remain vigilant and consider alternative routes if necessary.