News & Reports

A magnitude-5.2 earthquake struck near Lapinig, Northern Samar, on December 26 at approximately 18:30 local time. The epicenter was located roughly 5 km northeast of Lapinig, at a depth of about 59 km. Initial reports indicate no damage or casualties; significant destruction is considered unlikely. Light aftershocks are expected in the coming days, potentially triggering tsunami warnings.   Advice: As a precaution, it is advisable to temporarily vacate multistory buildings in areas where shaking was felt until authorities have confirmed their structural integrity. Stay alert and prepare for potential aftershocks and subsequent tsunami warnings.  

Pro-Palestine activists plan to protest at the Human Rights Monument in Ottawa at 14:00 on December 28. Up to 3,000 participants are expected, and an elevated police presence and local traffic delays are likely near the protest.   Advice: Avoid the protest area and consider alternate routes to bypass it. Avoid discussing related geopolitical issues. Adhere to all official instructions, and leave promptly if tensions escalate.  

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.