News & Reports

Severe weather including thunderstorms and heavy rain is affecting large parts of the U.S. and causing flight delays and cancellations at major airports. Disruptions are expected to continue throughout the day, with possible knock-on delays even after the weather improves.

Advice:

* Check your flight status before heading to the airport
* Allow extra time for connections
* Expect delays, especially through major hubs
* Stay updated through airline and airport notifications

India is currently experiencing contrasting extreme weather conditions. A severe heatwave persists across northern and central regions, with temperatures reaching up to 45–47°C in areas such as Delhi and Rajasthan. At the same time, eastern and northeastern states are facing heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds, with potential for localized flooding. Conditions are expected to continue over the next 24–72 hours, with risks of heat stress in urban areas and localized disruptions in storm-affected regions. Advice: * Avoid outdoor activity during peak heat hours in northern and central India. * Stay hydrated and take precautions against heat exhaustion. * Expect localized disruptions in eastern and northeastern regions due to storms. * Monitor weather updates and adjust travel plans accordingly. (https://mausam.imd.gov.in/index_en.php)

Wildfires that began on April 22 continue to burn in forested areas near Ōtsuchi in Iwate Prefecture. Over 3,000 residents remain under evacuation orders, while more than 1,000 firefighters are operating on the ground and from the air. The fires are not yet fully contained due to dry conditions and intermittent winds. Local disruptions include road closures (notably sections of Route 45) and limited transport interruptions. The situation remains active with potential for further spread over the next 24–72 hours. Advice: * Avoid the Ōtsuchi area and surrounding coastal/mountain regions in Iwate Prefecture. * Follow local authority instructions and evacuation notices if in the area. * Stay alert to smoke and reduced air quality in nearby areas.

South Africa marks Freedom Day, a national public holiday commemorating the country’s first democratic elections in 1994. The day is observed with official ceremonies, public events, concerts, and large community gatherings across major cities. the holiday creating and increasing domestic travel and movement between cities. As a result, crowding, transport congestion, and localized disruptions are expected, particularly around event venues and city centers. While no specific security threats are indicated, the scale of gatherings and travel may impact mobility and services during the day.

King’s Day (Koningsdag) celebrations are expected to bring up to one million visitors to Amsterdam. The city center will be largely closed to motorized traffic, with extensive street parties and open-air markets. Public transport will operate on a modified and limited schedule, while rail services to/from Amsterdam Centraal are expected to be extremely crowded, with possible station closures to manage foot traffic. Canal traffic will also be heavily regulated and congested. Significant crowding, restricted movement, and localized access limitations are expected throughout the city during the event period.

A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck Hokkaido, Japan, causing significant shaking felt across a wide area. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 72.8 km.

Heavy rainfall is expected to impact large parts of southern China between April 26–29, with peak intensity forecast in the coming 48 hours. According to Chinese meteorological and emergency authorities, the system is expected to bring moderate to heavy rainfall across multiple provinces, with localized flooding, rising river levels, and increased risk of landslides—particularly in mountainous and previously saturated areas. Authorities have raised preparedness levels due to the potential for rapid deterioration in conditions. Travel disruptions are possible, especially on rural roads, in highland regions, and near rivers. Advice: * Avoid travel in flood-prone and mountainous areas; check road conditions in advance as disruptions may occur with little notice. * Stay clear of rivers, streams, and unstable slopes due to the risk of sudden flooding and landslides. * Monitor official weather updates via the China Meteorological Administration: http://www.cma.gov.cn

Authorities in Kathmandu Valley are continuing eviction and demolition operations along riverbanks, including the Manohara River area, as part of a broader municipal enforcement campaign. The activity involves heavy machinery and increased security presence, mainly affecting areas near major roads and urban corridors. Traffic disruptions, congestion, and temporary road blockages may occur near affected zones, particularly in areas connecting to central Kathmandu and routes leading to the airport. The operations are ongoing and may continue over the coming days, with conditions changing throughout the day depending on enforcement activity.

Authorities in Austria have issued a recall of certain baby food products after a jar was found to contain rat poison, in what is believed to be a case of deliberate tampering. The affected product is a specific type of carrot-and-potato baby food sold in SPAR supermarkets. Investigations indicate that the contamination is likely linked to a criminal act rather than a manufacturing issue. As a precaution, a wider recall has been implemented, and similar products have been removed from shelves in Austria and parts of Central Europe. No injuries have been reported. The situation remains under investigation, with authorities advising caution when handling or consuming affected products.

Unionized seafarers across Greece are expected to stage a 24-hour nationwide strike on May 1 (Labor Day), halting ferry services and maritime transport. The strike will begin at 00:01 and continue until midnight, impacting all categories of vessels and effectively suspending connections between the mainland and the islands. This disruption is expected to significantly affect travelers relying on ferries, potentially causing itinerary changes, missed connections, and extended stays on islands or the mainland. Additional demonstrations may take place in central Athens and Thessaloniki, with increased police presence and localized disruptions in those areas. Normal maritime operations are expected to gradually resume after the strike, depending on further developments.

 

*Advice:*
* Reconfirm all ferry bookings and expect widespread cancellations on May 1.
* Adjust travel plans in advance, especially for island transfers.
* Consider alternative transportation or rescheduling travel where possible.
* Avoid demonstration areas in major cities due to crowding and disruptions.
* Monitor local updates for changes or possible extensions of the strike.