News & Reports

Thai health authorities have issued a nationwide alert following a rise in melioidosis (“soil fever”) cases, with 732 infections and 23 deaths reported since the beginning of 2026. The disease is caused by bacteria commonly found in soil and stagnant water, and infection may occur through open wounds, inhalation of contaminated dust, or ingestion of contaminated water. Authorities report that cases are increasing, particularly among agricultural workers and individuals with underlying health conditions, and warn that severe infections may lead to sepsis and life-threatening complications if untreated.

NamPower has issued an urgent flood warning for communities downstream of the Ruacana Power Station after opening a second floodgate due to heavy rainfall upstream in southern Angola. Authorities warn that water levels along the Kunene River may increase rapidly and without warning, posing a significant risk of flooding in low-lying areas. Lodges, campsites, and riverside communities are specifically advised to evacuate vulnerable areas and move equipment and livestock to higher ground.

A large-scale severe weather system is currently affecting wide areas of the central and eastern United States, including tornadoes, large hail, severe thunderstorms, and flash flooding, with continued heavy rainfall increasing the likelihood of flooding and transportation disruptions. At the same time, Super Typhoon Sinlaku has impacted the Northern Mariana Islands (including Saipan and Tinian) with winds exceeding 250-290 km/h. The storm caused widespread infrastructure damage, power outages, flooding, and dangerous sea conditions. Guam has also experienced tropical storm conditions, while emergency measures and shelters were activated across affected islands. *Advice:* * Avoid travel in affected Midwest regions, especially during active storm hours and tornado warnings * Monitor local weather alerts and emergency notifications continuously, as conditions may change rapidly * Stay indoors during severe storms and move to a protected area (basement/interior room) in case of tornado warnings * Prepare for power outages and disruptions to transportation, including flight delays and road closures * In Pacific islands, follow all local authority instructions and remain in secure shelter until conditions fully stabilize * Avoid coastal areas due to dangerous waves, flooding, and storm surge risk

Spain’s meteorological agency has issued a weather alert for multiple regions due to expected afternoon thunderstorms. Storms may bring heavy downpours, localized hail, and strong wind gusts reaching up to 80 km/h. Conditions are expected to intensify from approximately 16:00 local time and continue into the evening. While impacts are expected to remain localized, rapidly changing weather conditions may lead to short-term disruptions, particularly in outdoor areas and on roads.

Severe thunderstorms in the Chicago area have caused significant disruptions at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, prompting the FAA to implement ground stops and delay programs for incoming flights. As a result, flights bound for O’Hare were delayed or temporarily prevented from departing, with average delays exceeding several hours in some cases. Hundreds of flights have been affected, with cancellations and knock-on disruptions reported across the wider U.S. aviation network. Conditions remain dynamic, and further delays are possible as storms continue to impact the region.

Torrential rainfall has caused localized flooding across several suburbs of Wellington, prompting the evacuation of dozens of residents from flood-prone areas. Emergency services are responding to multiple incidents, including flooded homes and blocked roads. While the impact remains localized, saturated ground conditions increase the risk of further flooding and possible landslides. Additional downpours are expected in the coming hours, which may worsen conditions and lead to further disruptions.

Public transport workers' union Ver.di has announced warning strikes across several cities in Lower Saxony on April 20-21, likely causing significant disruptions to urban transportation. Bus and tram services are expected to be partially or fully suspended, particularly in Hannover and surrounding cities. While regional and long-distance rail services are not directly included, knock-on effects such as congestion and delays are likely. The timing coincides with major events such as Hannover Messe, which could increase travel pressure and service disruption on those dates. Advice: - Plan alternative transportation methods in advance - Avoid relying on local public transport in affected cities during strike days. - Stay updated through local transport providers for real-time service changes.

Multiple pro-Palestinian protests and events are expected across London on April 18. Demonstrations targeting Barclays branches will take place between 10:30-14:00 in areas such as Whitechapel and Edgware Road, alongside additional gatherings in central commercial districts. Separately, an organized event will be held at P21 Gallery (Chalton Street) between 18:00–20:00. Localized disruptions are expected throughout the day, including increased police presence, crowding, and traffic congestion near protest sites. The potential for localized tensions or counter-protests cannot be ruled out. Advice: - Avoid protest locations and nearby streets throughout the day. - Plan for delays in central London, especially near Barclays branches. - Remain vigilant in crowded or sensitive areas. - Keep a distance from demonstrations and gatherings. - Monitor local updates, as locations and conditions may change.

Thick haze has enveloped the northern region of Thailand, impacting tourism in popular destinations like Pai. Air quality has reached unhealthy levels, posing risks to travelers’ health.

A multi-day severe weather system continues to impact the Great Lakes region, bringing repeated rounds of heavy rainfall, severe thunderstorms, and flash flooding. Several rivers, particularly in Michigan, have exceeded flood stage, leading to localized evacuations, road closures, and infrastructure disruptions. Storm activity across the region includes the risk of tornadoes, large hail, and strong winds, while saturated ground conditions are increasing the likelihood of rapid runoff and additional flooding. Further rainfall and storm activity are expected over the next 24–72 hours, with flooding risks likely to persist even after rainfall decreases. Advice: * Avoid non-essential travel, especially in flood-prone or low-lying areas, and do not attempt to cross flooded roads. * Monitor local weather alerts and follow instructions from authorities, including evacuation orders if issued. * Prepare for possible power outages; keep devices charged and essential supplies (water, food, medications) accessible. * Check road conditions before travel and expect disruptions to transport and infrastructure.