News & Reports

Unexpected power outages continue to affect Ecuador, with a nationwide blackout occurring early December 21. Authorities have since restored power, but widespread and prolonged power outages are expected in the coming days. Reports of vandalism and increased crime during power outages are standard, with some local police departments issuing stay-inside warnings during blackouts.   Advice: Avoid unnecessary travel and exercise increased caution during power outages, especially at night. Consider pre-charging battery-powered devices in case of prolonged power outages. Prepare for disruptions to essential services such as public transport, communications, ATMs, etc.  

Following a substantial protest march with an estimated 20,000 participants on December 20 outside the US Embassy in Havana, further protests and rallies are expected over the coming days to demand the removal of Cuba from the US's terrorism-sponsoring countries list. Substantially elevated security measures and localized transport interruptions are expected throughout northern Havana. Altercations between police and activists are plausible.   Advice: As a safety measure, avoid the area and plan routes to bypass it. If operating in northern Havana, plan and prepare for traffic delays and other disruptions. Closely follow all instructions by local law enforcement officials. Stay away from large crowds and gatherings and leave at the first sign of escalation.  

Pro-Palestine activists plan to protest at State Library Victoria in Melbourne from noon on December 22. Several hundred participants are likely to attend. A substantial security presence is expected near the area, potentially leading to localized transport disruptions.   Advice: Avoid the vicinity and seek alternative routes to bypass it. If you're active in the region, anticipate and prepare for potential transportation disruptions. Adhere strictly to any instructions provided by local authorities. Depart immediately if tensions rise, and avoid engaging in discussions about the topic.    

Severe weather, including intensive rainfall, scattered thunderstorms, and powerful gusts of wind, is forecast across the northern regions of New Zealand's Southern Island until late December 23. The weather conditions may cause prolonged power outages, landslides in hilly and mountainous regions, and flooding near the coast and in low-lying areas such as valleys.   Advice: Exercise heightened caution in areas prone to landslides or flooding. Check road conditions before traveling and refrain from driving through flooded roads. Consider pre-charging battery-powered devices in advance in case of power outages. See the attached link for further weather-related updates and advice. https://www.metservice.com/    

Kenya Railways has announced a temporary suspension of commuter train services in Nairobi County from Dec. 23 to Jan. 5. However, services like the Madaraka Express and weekly Safari trains to Nanyuki and Kisumu will continue as usual. The reason for the suspension has not been disclosed. With the suspension in place, demand for alternative transportation options such as taxis, buses, and private vehicles is expected to rise, leading to increased traffic congestion in Nairobi until regular rail services resume.   Advice: Consider using alternative transportation options in Nairobi until Jan. 5, and allow extra time for travel. Be sure to reconfirm the status of rail services before heading  

Heavy snowfall and strong winds are expected across much of Honshu, Japan, through Dec. 24, with up to 70 cm (28 inches) forecast in some regions. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued yellow warnings for parts of Aomori Prefecture and may expand alerts as conditions evolve. The winter storm could disrupt road and air travel, with hazardous driving conditions, highway closures, and flight delays likely. Sporadic power outages may also occur.   Advice: Stay updated on weather reports and road conditions. If driving in snowy areas, allow extra time, carry an emergency kit, and avoid rural routes that may be impassable. Expect delivery delays and confirm flights. Keep devices charged in case of power outages.  

A powerful winter storm will impact southeastern Canada through Dec. 22, bringing heavy snow (10-30 cm), strong winds (up to 100 kph), freezing rain, and heavy rainfall. Hazardous travel and power outages are likely. Red warnings are in effect for Nova Scotia, southeastern Quebec, and southern Newfoundland. Expect transport disruptions and updates to weather alerts as conditions evolve.   Advice: Stay updated on weather reports and road conditions in areas with heavy snowfall. Allow extra travel time, and carry warm clothing and an emergency kit if driving, especially on rural routes. Expect delivery delays for truck shipments and confirm flights. Charge devices in case of power outages.  

Anti-government protests in Georgia, especially in Tbilisi, are expected to continue and intensify through December, with demonstrations planned ahead of President Zourabichvili’s Dec. 29 departure. Protests have been ongoing for 22 days, with over 400 arrests since late November. Rallies will occur in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi, involving various groups. A heightened police presence is anticipated, and disruptions to transport and businesses are likely. Clashes, vandalism, and further arrests are possible.   Advice: Avoid demonstrations as a precaution and exercise caution near government buildings, courts, and political party offices. Allow extra travel time during protests and consider alternative routes to avoid disruptions. If violence occurs, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a secure building. Follow all instructions from local authorities.  

On Dec. 18, 2024, bomb attacks targeted government-organized rallies in Amhara, leaving one dead and several injured. Explosions were reported in Bahir Dar, Woldia, and Debre Berhan, with gunfire and unrest following the demonstrations. These events highlight ongoing regional tensions and the high risk of collateral damage due to the nature of the attacks. The Amhara region remains unstable amid conflict between government forces and Fano militias. Travelers should avoid large gatherings, stay alert, and monitor local updates.   Advice: If you are in the Amhara region, exercise heightened caution due to recent bomb attacks and ongoing unrest. Stay away from large gatherings, rallies, and areas impacted by explosions or clashes. If you must be in the area, ensure you are not alone and have someone familiar with the region to accompany you.  

Uganda continues to report monkeypox (mpox) cases, with 443 new infections recorded between Nov. 24 and Dec. 18, bringing the total to 1,126 since July 24. This marks the country’s first outbreak, caused by the clade Ib strain. The virus has spread to 60 districts, with Kampala reporting the most cases (555), followed by Wakiso (170), Nakasongola (76), and others. Authorities have deployed rapid response teams to affected areas to raise awareness, combat stigma, and encourage medical care. Additional cases are expected as surveillance and contact tracing continue. Data is current as of Dec. 20.   Advice: Follow basic health precautions: wash hands often, cover coughs, and avoid sick individuals. Avoid crowded places and practice safe sex in areas with monkeypox outbreaks. Seek medical care if symptoms appear within two weeks, especially after new sexual contact. Vaccines are available.