News & Reports

Tropical Cyclone Hayley is impacting northern Western Australia, bringing destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and a high risk of flash flooding and storm surge along the Kimberley coast. At the same time, north Queensland is experiencing intense monsoonal rainfall, with flooding reported across multiple river catchments and road networks. Conditions remain volatile, with further rainfall and disruptions expected.   Advice:

• Follow evacuation and emergency instructions from local authorities immediately.
• Avoid all coastal and marine activity in affected areas.
• Do not drive through flooded roads; conditions may change rapidly.
• Expect power outages, road closures, and transport disruptions.
• Monitor official BoM warnings and local emergency updates closely.

 

A protest is planned for December 31, with demonstrators expected to gather at Oranienplatz from 14:00 (local time) to protest the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the ongoing conflict. Large crowds and a strong police presence are expected in the area. Traffic disruptions and public transport delays are likely in parts of central Berlin, particularly around Kreuzberg. Advice: - Avoid Oranienplatz and the surrounding streets from early afternoon onward. - Expect road closures, public transport disruptions, and heavy police presence. - Plan alternative routes and allow extra travel time if moving through central Berlin. - Follow instructions from local authorities and avoid all protest activities. - Avoid confrontation with demonstrators and entering into arguments with demonstrators or bystanders.  

A powerful winter storm is impacting large parts of the United States, with blizzard-like conditions developing across the Upper Midwest, Northern Plains, and Great Lakes. Warnings for whiteout conditions have been issued, with heavy snowfall exceeding 30-60 cm (12-24 inches) in parts of the Upper Great Lakes and dangerous wind chills down to -34°C (-30°F) in North Dakota and Minnesota. Strong winds and heavy snow are expected to make travel extremely hazardous or impossible in some areas, with an increased risk of power outages. As the system moves east, a sharp cold front is bringing severe thunderstorms, strong winds, heavy rain, and a rapid temperature drop across the South, ending a period of record-breaking warmth. Temperatures are forecast to fall well below seasonal averages across much of the country through New Year’s Day.   Advice:

• Avoid non-essential travel in blizzard-affected areas; whiteout conditions may develop rapidly.
• Expect flight delays, cancellations, and major highway disruptions, especially near the Great Lakes and Northern Plains.
• Prepare for extreme cold: limit outdoor exposure, dress in layers, and ensure access to heating.
• Secure property and prepare for possible power outages due to heavy snow and strong winds.
• Monitor National Weather Service alerts and local emergency updates for evolving conditions.

 

China has launched a large round of military drills around Taiwan, involving live-fire exercises across seven designated maritime zones, some closer to Taiwan. According to Taiwanese authorities, the drills are expected to continue through December 30. Taiwan’s Transport Ministry reports that over 100,000 passengers on international flights may be affected, while approximately 80 domestic flights are expected to be cancelled.   Advice:

• If travelling to, from, or within Taiwan, reconfirm flight status frequently, especially for flights on December 29-30.
• Expect delays and cancellations for both international and domestic flights, and adjust travel plans accordingly.
• Monitor official airline notifications and stay informed by credible news and government advisories.

 

Ongoing heavy rainfall has led to renewed and persistent flooding across parts of Pahang and Johor, resulting in the displacement of residents, the activation of relief centres, and transport disruptions. Rising river levels have exceeded alert and warning thresholds at several monitoring points, prompting evacuations in affected communities and temporary road closures due to flooding, slope instability, and infrastructure safety concerns. While conditions vary by district, the overall flood risk remains active, and authorities indicate that further localised flooding is possible over the next 24-72 hours if rainfall continues.   Advice:

• If in Pahang or Johor, avoid low-lying areas, floodplains, and roads near rivers, even if conditions appear calm.
• Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or bridges, as water depth and structural stability may be uncertain.
• Keep essential items ready: documents, medication, water, food, and power banks in case of sudden displacement.
• Follow instructions from local authorities and relocate promptly if evacuation notices are issued.
• Monitor official weather and disaster management updates for district-level warnings and changes in conditions.

 

A peaceful human chain protest organized by traders at Karwan Bazar was attacked at approximately 11:30 local time. The protest was held to oppose alleged extortion targeting traders in the area. A group of individuals assaulted participants, injuring several traders and forcing the initial gathering to disperse. Protesters later regrouped and retaliated using sticks, after which the attackers fled the area. The situation has since de-escalated, but tensions remain elevated. Increased security presence and sporadic disruptions are possible over the next 48 hours, particularly if further protests or counteractions occur.   Advice:

• Avoid Karwan Bazar and adjacent areas until the security situation fully stabilizes.
• If already nearby, leave the area calmly using main roads and avoid side streets where confrontations may recur.
• Expect possible police deployment, roadblocks, or temporary closures around markets and commercial hubs.
• Do not engage with protests or counter-groups, even if gatherings appear small or peaceful.
• Monitor local media and official statements for updates on further demonstrations or security measures.

 

Thousands of people across Waterloo Region are without electricity following multiple power outages. According to the official authorities, at least 15 separate outages were reported affecting both urban neighborhoods and surrounding rural communities. Utility crews are on site investigating the cause and working to restore service; however, no estimated restoration time has been provided, and outages may persist or expand over the next 24 hours.   Advice:

• If in the affected area, prepare for prolonged power loss, including limited heating, lighting, and charging capability.
• Keep mobile devices and power banks charged where possible, and conserve battery usage.
• Avoid unnecessary travel, especially during rain, as road conditions may be hazardous and traffic signals may be affected.
• Monitor updates and local weather advisories for restoration progress and changing conditions.