News & Reports

The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has inspected Maiquetia Airport in Venezuela, indicating expectations of a potential reopening of air travel between the two countries.

The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has inspected Maiquetia Airport in Venezuela, indicating expectations of a potential reopening of air travel between the two countries.

A pro-Palestinian protest organized by Friends of Palestine WA is scheduled for February 26 outside the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre during an event featuring Israeli Minister Ron Dermer. Around 800-900 participants are expected. Heightened security, possible counter-protests, and localized traffic disruptions are likely.

The Tokyo Marathon on March 1 will cause significant travel disruptions across central Tokyo as more than 39,000 runners move through major city corridors and past key tourist landmarks. Rolling road closures and traffic restrictions will be in effect from approximately 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, affecting arterial roads, intersections, and some expressway access points. Bus routes will be diverted or suspended, and heavy congestion is expected around popular districts and transport hubs.

The South African President has deployed elements of the Defence Force (SANDF) to support the Police Service (SAPS) in tackling gun violence, gang activity, illegal mining, and organised crime in provinces including Gauteng, the Western Cape, and the Eastern Cape. The move comes in response to rising violent crime and community safety concerns, with troops operating alongside police under clearly defined rules of engagement. While the deployment aims to reduce crime threats, observers note it may coincide with periods of increased security activity and visible armed presence in urban and gang-affected areas.

Heavy, persistent rainfall has caused widespread flooding across Bali, submerging streets and roads and prompting evacuations in major tourist districts. Floodwaters up to knee-high have inundated central south Bali, impacting residential areas, hotels, and transport routes. Authorities have issued high rain and flood alerts, and continued storms are expected through Feb. 26, raising the risk of further inundation and travel disruption.

Morocco’s national meteorological authorities have issued a weather alert due to strong winds and sandstorms expected to impact southern provinces. Powerful gusts may significantly reduce visibility, particularly in desert and open-road areas. Blowing sand and dust could disrupt road travel, affect local transport services, and create hazardous driving conditions. Conditions may fluctuate over the next 24-48 hours depending on wind intensity.

Advice :

* Avoid non-essential travel in affected southern and desert regions.
* Expect reduced visibility and drive with extreme caution.
* If possible, remain indoors in a secure location during peak wind activity.
* Protect eyes and respiratory system if exposed to blowing sand.
* Monitor official Moroccan meteorological updates before traveling.

 

Zambia has declared a polio outbreak after poliovirus was detected in wastewater through routine environmental surveillance. No confirmed paralysis cases have been reported, however, the finding indicates community circulation of the virus.

Polio is a highly contagious viral disease transmitted primarily through contaminated water and food. It mainly affects young children and can lead to permanent paralysis. The government is coordinating with international health partners to contain potential spread.

Increased health monitoring and localized vaccination drives are expected in the coming weeks. No travel restrictions have been announced.

Advice :
* Ensure polio vaccinations are up to date before travel.
* Maintain strict hand hygiene.
* Use bottled or treated water where sanitation is limited.
* Monitor official health updates.

 

Heavy rainfall has triggered flooding and landslides across parts of Minas Gerais, disrupting significant infrastructure. Several urban and intercity roads are blocked due to mudslides, with reports of partial road collapses and restricted access to rural and mountainous areas. Transport services are experiencing delays, and emergency response operations are ongoing. Hundreds of residents have been evacuated, with localized power outages and disruptions to the clean water supply reported. Unstable ground conditions continue to pose a risk of secondary landslides, even as rainfall decreases.

 

Advice:
– Avoid travel through mountainous and flood-affected areas
– Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or unstable terrain
– Postpone treks and outdoor activities
– Stay clear of riverbanks and steep slopes
– Monitor official updates and be prepared for possible evacuation

 

Very dangerous thunderstorms have intensified across Melbourne, producing intense rainfall with a high risk of life threatening flash flooding. Emergency warnings have urged people in several eastern and southeastern suburbs to shelter indoors as conditions can escalate quickly. Travelers should expect flooded streets, sudden road closures, slowed public transport, and disruptions to airport transfers. Power outages have also been reported, which can affect accommodation services, lifts, charging, and card payments.

 

Advice:
– Avoid non essential travel across Melbourne while storm cells are active, especially through the eastern and southeastern suburbs.
– Do not drive through floodwater and avoid underpasses and low lying streets, conditions can change in minutes.
– If staying in the warning areas, remain indoors and away from windows, delay check outs, transfers, and sightseeing until conditions ease.
– Plan for disrupted airport runs and longer travel times, reconfirm rideshare pickup points and public transport status before moving.
– Keep a power bank charged and carry some cash, outages can affect charging, ATMs, and card terminals.
– Monitor official warning pages and trusted local sources for updated suburb level alerts and road impacts before heading out.