News & Reports

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.

Port workers from the FNPD union plan 4-hour strikes throughout January from 7 to 31 due to ongoing pension reform disputes. Strikes will occur between 10:00 and 16:00 on specific dates, with a ban on overtime during the month. The impact on ports across France, including overseas territories, is unclear but may disrupt port services and maritime transport. Pickets may form at ports, and localized transport disruptions are possible. Increased security and potential clashes with law enforcement are expected at affected locations.   Advice: Verify deliveries and anticipate possible shipping delays during the strikes. Explore alternative shipping options for urgent cargo. As a safety measure, avoid any related protests.  

Several public transport unions across Italy plan strikes on Jan. 10 for better pay and working conditions. Rail maintenance workers will strike nationwide for 24 hours, while local public transport workers will strike for four hours. Airport staff at Milan Malpensa and Linate airports, as well as aviation staff at Venice Marco Polo, will strike for 24 hours. These strikes will likely disrupt rail, bus, tram, and metro services, causing traffic congestion and increased demand for alternative transport. Flight delays and passenger processing issues are expected at affected airports, with possible ongoing disruptions after the strikes end. Security and localized transport disruptions may also occur near protests.   Advice: Verify public transport and flight availability for travel through Italy on Jan. 10. Arrive early at airports for possible delays and make backup plans if needed. Allow extra time for congestion and avoid protests. Follow all law enforcement instructions.  

The Office for Corruption Investigation of High-Ranking Officials (CIO) announced that South Korean investigators failed to arrest suspended President Jun Suk Yeol. After six hours of negotiations at his residence, investigators left the area. Thousands of police officers were stationed at Jun's residence, where they dispersed around 30 supporters who broke through barriers in protest. This marks the second failed attempt to arrest Jun, following a previous effort blocked by large crowds. Due to the ongoing situation, authorities have heightened security in Seoul.   Advice: Avoid the area and remain alert. Expect significant police presence and possible disruptions. Authorities have increased security in Seoul, so plan accordingly and follow official advisories  

Protests are likely across India through late January over Home Minister Amit Shah's alleged remarks about Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The Indian National Congress INC plans a nationwide campaign starting Jan. 3 and ending with a rally in Madhya Pradesh on Jan. 26. Demonstrations, especially in opposition-led states, may disrupt transport and businesses, with potential clashes and police interventions.   Advice: Stay away from protests as a safety measure. Leave immediately if any security issues arise. Plan for delays near protest sites and follow all official travel and security guidance.

Winter weather is forecast in the northwestern US through Jan. 4, with heavy rain and snow in northeastern California, northern Montana, the Cascades, Sierra, and the Rockies. Higher peaks could see over 1 foot of snow. Strong winds may cause blowing snow and power outages. Expect hazardous travel, highway closures, and flight delays in affected areas.   Advice: Stay updated on weather reports and check road conditions before traveling in snowy areas. Allow extra travel time, and carry warm clothes, and an emergency kit, especially on rural routes. Expect delivery and flight delays; plan accordingly. Charge devices in case of power outages.  

Strong winds and snowfall are forecast across parts of northern and western Romania through Jan. 3. Wind gusts up to 120 kph (75 mph) and blizzard conditions are expected in elevated regions, reducing visibility below 50 meters (164 feet). Hazardous driving conditions are likely. Orange weather warnings (mid-tier) for blizzards and reduced visibility are active in mountainous areas, while yellow warnings for strong winds and low visibility are in place for Bihor, Neamt, and Suceava counties. Sporadic power outages are possible.   Advice: Exercise caution when traveling, especially in mountainous regions. Always check road conditions before heading out. Avoid unnecessary travel, and ensure vehicles are equipped with winter tires. For the official weather warnings, please refer to the attached link. https://www.meteoromania.ro/  

Ongoing political unrest in Mozambique continues to cause travel disruptions near the Lebombo border post. Protests have led to repeated closures and severe delays, with vehicle queues stretching up to 30 km (18 miles). Authorities have increased security, introducing additional screenings and deploying personnel. Dangerous driving by frustrated truckers and opportunistic looting targeting stationary vehicles remain concerns. Traffic disruptions are also affecting the nearby Mananga border post and local routes.   Advice: An increased security presence and disruptions to cross-border transport and local traffic are likely until conditions improve. Secure your belongings in transit and adjust plans for travel and freight. Follow all instructions from law enforcement and leave immediately at the first sign of any potential security disturbance.