News & Reports

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/  

Farmers plan to hold a tractor rally on 4 March, starting at 12:00 PM local time/GMT, to protest a proposed inheritance tax hike. The rally will take place from Whitehall in London to Trafalgar Square, following a route that includes Northumberland Avenue and Victoria Embankment before returning to Whitehall via Westminster Bridge Road and Parliament Street. Additionally, a rally will occur on Whitehall from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM.   Advice: As a preventive measure, avoid the rally route. Plan and prepare routes to bypass the area, and allocate extra time if traveling nearby. Adhere to all official guidelines.  

Kenya is currently experiencing a surge in wildfires affecting several major wildlife sanctuaries and protected areas, worsened by a severe dry spell. Multiple parks impacted include Nairobi National Park, Aberdare National Park, Mount Kenya, Ruma National Park, South Island National Park, and Mount Elgon National Park. Emergency teams in Kenya are actively working to combat these wildfires across multiple protected areas. Since January 2025, there have been over 180 recorded fire incidents, which have affected more than 1,357 hectares of vegetation.   Advice: Avoid areas affected by wildfires and limit outdoor activities nearby to reduce smoke exposure. Before visiting a park, check for hazards like active fires in advance. Follow official evacuation orders and local emergency instructions, using the designated routes.  

Tropical Cyclone Alfred, currently a Category 2 storm, is moving southward over the Coral Sea and is expected to turn westward on Tuesday (March 4), approaching southern Queensland and potentially making landfall between Thursday and Friday (March 6-7). Authorities have issued warnings for gale-force winds, which may down trees and power lines, particularly along the Sunshine Coast. Heavy rainfall and rough seas are also expected as the storm nears the coastline.   Advice: Avoid coastal and low-lying areas and unnecessary travel. Secure loose objects, keep an emergency kit nearby, stay indoors during storms, and move to higher ground if flooding occurs. Check the attached link for the latest weather advisories. http://www.bom.gov.au/