News & Reports

03

February 2026

Patagonia Wildfires- Evacuations & Smoke Impacts

Critical

Country: Argentina

Location: Patagonia (Chubut), including Los Alerces National Park and surrounding areas

Large wildfires are continuing across parts of Patagonia, with active fire fronts reported. Evacuations have taken place in affected communities and tourist zones, and smoke is impacting visibility and outdoor activity in parts of the region. Conditions remain volatile due to dry weather and wind, with further disruptions possible.

Topics: Wildland FiresEvacuations

Safety Precautions:

  • Be prepared for sudden road closures and changes to park access
  • Stay well away from active fire areas; move across the wind direction, not with the fire, and avoid dry vegetation and burning forests
  • Seek areas with no vegetation, such as roads, rocky ground, rivers, or lakes
  • If escape is not possible, lie low in an open area, cover yourself with thick clothing or non-flammable material, and avoid trees
  • If water is nearby, wet clothing and cover mouth and nose with a damp cloth to reduce smoke inhalation
  • If safe to do so, enter a river or lake and remain close to the water
  • Preserve phone battery and keep it available for emergency contact or rescue instructions

03

February 2026

Snow and Cold Weather Disruptions Expected

Caution

Country: United Kingdom

Location: Northern England, Scotland, parts of Wales

Cold Arctic air is bringing snow, icy conditions, and freezing temperatures to parts of the UK. Weather warnings are in effect, with snowfall expected to cause travel disruption, particularly on roads, rail services, and in rural or elevated areas. Transport delays and difficult driving conditions are likely, especially during early morning and evening hours.

Topics: Severe Weather

Safety Precautions:

  • Allow extra time for travel and check transport updates in advance
  • Use caution when driving, especially on untreated or rural roads; keep fuel topped up
  • Dress for cold conditions and carry warm layers, waterproof clothing, and gloves
  • If traveling by car, carry with you water, snacks, a power bank, and a blanket
  • Expect delays or cancellations on rail and road networks and be prepared to stay put if needed

03

February 2026

Emergency Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak in Northeast Botswana

warning

Location: Northeast Region, Botswana

The Department of Veterinary Services is investigating a potential outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease in Northeast Botswana, raising fears of significant losses for farmers, the Botswana Meat Commission, and the broader Botswana economy.

Topics: Health Crisis

Safety Precautions:

    03

    February 2026

    Polio Outbreak Declared in Malawi

    warning

    Location: Blantyre, Malawi

    The Malawi government has declared a polio outbreak after the virus was detected in toilet samples in Blantyre. Public health authorities are investigating the extent of the outbreak and implementing emergency response measures.

    Topics: Health Crisis

    Safety Precautions:

      03

      February 2026

      Rain Returns to Parts of Kenya Amid Ongoing Heat

      Caution

      Country: Kenya

      Location: Central Highlands, Rift Valley, Western Kenya, Lake Victoria Basin

      Rainfall is expected to return later this week in parts of central and western Kenya, while much of the country remains hot and dry. Scattered showers may affect some areas, while nearby regions remain dry. Daytime temperatures are forecast to exceed 30°C across the Coast, North-eastern, and North-western regions. In contrast, cold nighttime temperatures below 10°C are expected in the Central Highlands, Central Rift Valley, and areas near Mt. Kilimanjaro.

      Topics: Severe Weather

      Safety Precautions:

      • - Prepare for localized rain and slippery roads in affected regions.
      • - Stay hydrated and limit outdoor activity during peak heat.
      • - Dress warmly for cold nights in highland areas.
      • - Monitor local weather updates for changing conditions.

      03

      February 2026

      Three-Day Nationwide Rail Strike Scheduled After Deadly Train Crashes

      Caution

      Country: Spain

      Location: Nationwide

      Spain’s largest train drivers’ union, SEMAF, has announced a three-day nationwide rail strike from Feb 9-11 to demand urgent railway safety improvements following a series of serious accidents, including a major high-speed collision near Adamuz in southern Spain and a derailment near Gelida in Catalonia, which together killed dozens of passengers and train drivers. The walkout is expected to impact high-speed, intercity, commuter, and regional services, resulting in substantial disruptions to rail travel nationwide.

      Topics: Strike Actions

      Safety Precautions:

      • - Expect significant train cancellations and delays from February 9 to 11.
      • - Avoid relying on trains for fixed-time connections.
      • - Consider alternative transport (bus, car hire, flights) early.
      • - Monitor carrier and rail operator updates for schedule changes.
      • - Allow extra travel time or reschedule travel plans where possible.

      03

      February 2026

      Severe Storms Disrupt Air Travel Across Multiple U.S. Airports

      Caution

      Country: USA

      Location: Northeast, Midwest, and Southeast U.S.

      Severe storms are causing widespread flight disruptions at several major U.S. airports, including Philadelphia, Minneapolis, and Myrtle Beach. Heavy rain, snow, and strong winds have led to over 100 flight delays and multiple cancellations, with knock-on effects across regional and national routes. Ground delays, rerouting, and short-notice cancellations remain possible as unstable weather continues to affect air traffic operations.

      Topics: Flight Disruptions

      Safety Precautions:

      • - Check flight status frequently before leaving for the airport.
      • - Allow extra time for check-in and security.
      • - Be prepared for last-minute delays or cancellations.
      • - Reconfirm connections and alternative routes with airlines.
      • - Monitor local weather and airport updates closely.

      02

      February 2026

      Air Pollution Alert in Northeast India

      warning

      Location: Northeast India, India

      High levels of air pollution in Northeast India, particularly in urban areas, pose health risks to residents and travelers. Authorities recommend reducing outdoor activities, using N95 masks, and monitoring air quality alerts.

      Topics: Environmental

      Safety Precautions:

        02

        February 2026

        Air Pollution Alert in Northeast India

        warning

        Location: Northeast India, India

        High levels of air pollution in Northeast India, particularly in urban areas, pose health risks to residents and travelers. Authorities recommend reducing outdoor activities, using N95 masks, and monitoring air quality alerts.

        Topics: Environmental

        Safety Precautions:

          02

          February 2026

          Air Pollution Alert in Northeast India

          warning

          Location: Northeast India, India

          High levels of air pollution in Northeast India, particularly in urban areas, pose health risks to residents and travelers. Authorities recommend reducing outdoor activities, using N95 masks, and monitoring air quality alerts.

          Topics: Environmental

          Safety Precautions: