News & Reports

Thai authorities have significantly stepped up security measures ahead of the general election and constitutional referendum scheduled for February 8, 2026, with national police and security forces on high alert to ensure public safety and prevent unrest. Security efforts include increased patrols, crime suppression operations, and readiness to support election logistics, particularly in regions with past incidents of violence and unrest, such as the southern border provinces. Officials are also enforcing temporary restrictions related to election order, including bans on alcohol sales during election periods.

Storm Marta is hitting Portugal and Spain just days after Storm Leonardo caused deadly flooding, compounding impacts across already saturated regions. Intense rainfall, strong winds, and rising river levels are triggering renewed flooding, landslides, and damage to infrastructure. More than 11,000 people have been evacuated, with homes submerged, roads and rail lines blocked, and emergency services operating at full capacity. Additional heavy rain is forecast, keeping the threat elevated.

Namibia remains free of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD), but strict measures are being urged as the threat looms in the Southern Africa region. Travelers should avoid contact with livestock and take precautions when visiting affected areas.

Residents of a cattle market in Kwara State, Nigeria, have reported a terror scare after an incident in the area. The local community is concerned about the potential for a terrorist attack following the recent incident.

Japan is facing widespread flight disruptions across multiple airports. Reports indicate 56 flights cancelled and 773 flights significantly delayed, leaving many passengers stranded and causing missed connections and crowded terminals. Travelers should expect last-minute schedule changes, longer waits, and limited rebooking options until operations stabilize.

Recommended Actions:
1. Check flight status often via your airline and airport updates.
2. Rebook early if affected, consider alternate routes or dates.
3. Arrive early and plan extra time for lines and gate changes.
4. Keep essentials in your carry-on, meds, chargers, snacks.
5. Save receipts and ask airlines about assistance and options.

 

An unidentified drone was found on Moldovan territory near the Ukraine border, raising security concerns in the region.

A Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak has been reported in Jakalas 1, Botswana. Residents have been told that the fight against FMD is a collective responsibility, not just the government’s. Travelers are advised to avoid the affected area and livestock.

Central America is experiencing unusually cold weather in 2026 as a result of the warming Arctic causing a shift in air masses towards the region. This is part of the global climate crisis impacting the area.

Japan is expecting the coldest air mass of the season, raising the risk of transportation disruptions across the country as heavy snow is forecasted.

The Malawian government has declared a polio outbreak after the virus was detected in toilet samples from Blantyre, raising health concerns across the region.