News & Reports

Severe weather conditions are expected across Peru's Cajamarca, Lambayeque, and Libertad regions through at least December 31. The storms may bring strong winds, lightning, and heavy rainfall, posing risks of flooding in low-lying areas and near bodies of water and landslides on unstable terrain. Severe weather could disrupt utilities, potentially leading to power outages and telecommunications interruptions in affected regions. Flooding may cause roadblocks and disruptions to traffic.   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. Follow reliable local media outlets for further updates and advisories.  

Reports indicate a substantial police presence at Sky Harbor International Airport's Terminal 4 following a suspected shooting. There are currently indications of several casualties.   Advice: Avoid the area until authorities declare it safe. Closely follow all official guidelines and be alert.  

Severe weather conditions are expected across the Northland, Auckland, and Coromandel regions of New Zealand's North Island through at least December 28. The storms may bring strong winds, lightning, and hail, with heavy rainfall posing risks of flooding in low-lying areas and near bodies of water and landslides on unstable terrain. Severe weather could disrupt utilities, potentially leading to power outages and telecommunications interruptions in affected regions. Flooding may cause roadblocks and disruptions to traffic.   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.  

A significant number of inmates escaped from Machava Maximum Security Prison (B.O) in Maputo Province earlier today. The situation is critical, with escapees reported on the streets. Authorities have heightened security and established checkpoints in the area to manage the situation and locate the escaped individuals.#   Advice: Avoid traveling near the prison and surrounding areas. Be cautious, anticipate possible delays due to checkpoints, and stay updated through reliable local sources. Follow all instructions from authorities.  

On Dec. 24, 2024, the Israeli Health Ministry confirmed a polio case in an unvaccinated 17-year-old from the Jerusalem area. Officials are conducting contact tracing and monitoring potential spread. This follows a recent polio outbreak in Gaza, underscoring the importance of preventive measures.   Advice: Ensure all household members, including adults, are vaccinated against polio. Vaccination is the most effective protection. Maintain proper hand hygiene and avoid contact with unvaccinated individuals to reduce the risk of transmission.  

On Dec. 25, 2024, an Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 crashed at Aktau Airport while en route from Baku to Grozny. The plane carried 67-105 passengers, with six survivors confirmed. The crash, possibly caused by a bird strike, occurred after circling the airport. Delays and cancellations are reported at Aktau Airport.   Advice: Avoid the area to allow emergency operations and monitor official updates for further information.  

Protests have erupted across Mozambique after the Constitutional Council confirmed Daniel Chapo as the disputed election winner. Over 130 deaths, including 21 recently, have been reported amid escalating unrest. Demonstrators have attacked police stations, looted businesses, and set vehicles ablaze, especially in Maputo and Beira. Heightened security and roadblocks are causing severe disruptions.   Advice: Avoid areas with reported blockades and plan alternate routes to reduce disruptions. Monitor reliable local updates and follow authorities' instructions.  

American Airlines has implemented a nationwide ground stop for all its flights across the U.S. due to significant technical issues. The disruption is causing widespread delays at airports across the country on one of the year's busiest travel days.   Advice: Confirm flight schedules with airlines before heading to the airport and anticipate extended delays. Stay informed through updates on the airline's official website or social media channels. Consider alternative travel arrangements where possible.  

Severe heatwave warnings are in effect across parts of eastern, northern, and western Australia through at least Dec. 29. Temperatures exceeding 44°C (111°F) are likely. The Australian authorities have issued severe heatwave warnings across the Northern Territory (Carpentaria, Gregory districts), Queensland (Gulf Country, North Tropical Coast and Tablelands, Herbert and Lower Burdekin, North West districts), and Western Australia (Kimberley, Pilbara, Gascoyne, Central West, Lower West, Central Wheat Belt districts). Extended periods of high heat and dry conditions could heighten bushfire risks.   Advice: Stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat, and monitor updates. Seek medical help immediately if you notice symptoms of heat stroke or dehydration.  

On December 22, local farmers were killed in an attack by armed militants in Qore Kebele, Gorka District, while they were herding cattle. Previous incidents in the region include the killing of three farmers in Sheko Village, Kereda Kebele, in October 2024. Additionally, in mid-September 2024, four farmers were abducted and later killed. These attacks are reportedly connected to militants crossing over from the West Guji Zone of Oromia Region.   Advice: Minimize travel in isolated and remote areas such as Kore Zone and nearby areas. If in the region, maintain heightened security awareness, limit your movements, travel in groups, and stay informed through reliable local sources.