News & Reports

French farmers initiated road blockades around Paris on Jan. 5, 2025, protesting against the EU-Mercosur free trade deal and domestic regulations they claim harm their profits and create unfair competition. The protests, involving convoys, have caused significant traffic disruptions and is expected to go on for the upcoming week as the union officials have scheduled to meet Prime Minister François Bayrou on Jan. 13. Advice: Expect traffic disruptions in and around Paris due to farmers' protests involving road blockades. Plan your routes accordingly, allow extra time for travel, and stay updated on local traffic reports.

Reports indicate ground shaking near Guatemala City at approximately 17:18 GMT on Jan. 5, potentially caused by seismic activity. This follows confirmed earthquake activity earlier in El Salvador, raising concerns about aftershocks in the region. Precise details on the magnitude and depth in Guatemala are still pending, with updates expected soon. Advice: Stay alert for official updates and be prepared for potential aftershocks in Guatemala and surrounding areas. Avoid unstable structures, ensure access to emergency supplies, and follow safety protocols for seismic activity.

The Directorate General of Meteorology (DGM) has issued an orange-level warning for severe thunderstorms and snowfall affecting various Moroccan regions. Heavy rainfall of 40-60 mm is expected from 6 p.m. Jan. 5 to 4 p.m. Jan. 6 in provinces like Tangier-Assilah, Larache, Tetouan, and Kenitra. Snowfall is anticipated on Jan. 6 in areas above 1,700 meters, including Chefchaouen, Azilal, Ifrane, and Midelt, with accumulations of 15-30 cm. Advice: Avoid non-essential travel in regions affected by severe thunderstorms and snowfall, as heavy rain and snow may cause flooding and hazardous road conditions. Stay updated on local weather alerts and take precautions to ensure your safety during this period.

Transnistria is experiencing rolling blackouts and water shortages all day long, particularly affecting the upper floors of multi-story buildings in Tiraspol and Bender due to decreased network pressure. These challenges result from an electricity shortage caused by Ukraine's decision to stop transporting Russian gas through its territory for national security reasons, which has led to a halt in gas supplies to Moldova.   Advice: If you are in or planning to visit Transnistria, be prepared for ongoing power and water disruptions. Stock up on drinking water, keep essential devices charged, and have backup power options ready. Stay updated on local advisories and consider alternatives for cooking and heating.      

Schiphol International Airport (AMS) in Amsterdam is experiencing significant flight disruptions due to snow, rain, and low temperatures. As a result, flights may be delayed or canceled.     Advice: If you are planning to fly through AMS, please reconfirm all flight reservations. Be prepared for severe disruptions, including potential delays and cancellations.  

National Rail has reported that severe winter weather is impacting multiple rail lines in England, particularly in Northern England, the TransPennine Express network, and ScotRail routes in Scotland. Disruptions are expected to continue until tomorrow. The Met Office has issued several yellow and amber weather warnings, which will remain in effect until January 6, affecting most of the Great Western Railway (GWR) network.     Advice: Please check for updates before starting your journey if you plan to travel by train. For more information, visit the National Rail website for details: https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/service-disruptions/poor-weather-20241229/  

A weather system moving southeast across northwest Germany will bring snow that changes to freezing rain, increasing the risk of black ice. Milder conditions are expected in the west and southwest, with significant warming in central areas by evening. Overnight, freezing rain east of the Elbe River will ease as milder southwest winds take over. Expect heavy rainfall, strong winds up to 100 km/h in mountainous regions, and snowfall up to 10 cm, creating hazardous conditions on the roads. Lufthansa has warned of possible flight disruptions in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland due to the severe weather.     Advice: Exercise caution when traveling, especially in mountainous areas. Check road conditions before heading out and avoid unnecessary travel. Ensure your vehicle has winter tires and monitor local media for weather updates. Plan for potential delivery delays and confirm flight statuses. Remember to charge devices in case of power outages. For official weather warnings, please refer to the attached link. https://www.dwd.de/EN/weather/warnings/warnings_node.htm  

An earthquake in Addis Ababa's Dulecha district on Dofan Mountain has triggered a fire amid ongoing seismic activity. Afar region administrator Abdu Ali reported efforts to evacuate residents and prevent harm. Frequent tremors and today's intense fire have raised safety concerns, with authorities closely monitoring the situation.   Advice: Stay away from Dulecha district and surrounding areas affected by the earthquake and fire. Follow local authorities' instructions, including evacuation orders. Avoid unstable structures and monitor updates for further safety guidance.  

Rail workers plan a nationwide strike from 22:00 Jan. 12 to 22:00 Jan. 13 to protest pension reforms, affecting SNCB, Infrabel, and HR Rail operations. A demonstration is planned at 10:30 Jan. 13 near Gare du Midi, with several thousand expected to join. The strike will likely cause major rail disruptions, increased traffic, and overcrowded alternative transport. Residual delays may persist after the strike. Protests near transport depots and heightened police presence may lead to additional disruptions.   Advice: Verify travel plans and rail service status for Jan. 12-13. Expect delays and road congestion; plan extra travel time. Use alternative transport as needed and follow local guidance. Steer clear of protests and comply with authorities' instruction  

The Ministry of Works and Transport has announced a temporary suspension of Nakiwogo Ferry services between Entebbe and Mpigi starting Monday, 06 January 2025, for scheduled maintenance. The ferry service will resume on Monday, 27 January 2025.   Advice: Passengers are advised to use the alternative road route via Kisubi, Sissa-Nakawuka, and Kasanje to Buwaya.