SafeAbroad

On August 14, eruptions from Mount Etna, near Catania, Italy in Sicily have led authorities to halt operations at Catania International Airport. Ashfalls have also prompted a two-day ban on road travel with two-wheeled vehicles such as motorcycles as well as a blanket 30 km/h speed limit within the city. Stoppages and closures are likely to continue until volcanic activity ceases.

Widespread flooding and landslides have been reported in Beijing, China on August 3 associated with Typhoon Doksuri. Over 1.2 million people have been evacuated from the area, and dozens have been reported missing. Severe rain have caused at least one major highway bridge to collapse, and flooded dozens of roads. Continued rainfall and disruptions are expected through August 9.

Typhoon Khanun made landfall in Okinawa, Japan and Taipei, Taiwan on August 2 and 3, causing structural damage, power outages, and flooding. Current meteorological reports forecast that Khanun will backtrack across Okinawa for a second time on August 4 before finally dissipating. This is expected to worsen travel conditions, and increase flooding and power outages.

On July 27, American tourists are advised to keep a low profile after an American tourist was nearly killed the prior week in an unprovoked attack. The U.S. Embassy in Dublin, Ireland, recommends walking in groups, securing wallets and passports in interior pockets, and only carrying a little amount of cash on your person. The embassy also recommends not staring at your phone while walking in public areas, and to limit the amount of alcohol you consume.

On July 26, Typhoon Doksuri hit Taiwan, causing the evacuation of at least 300 people and flood warnings across the country. On July 27, Dokuri is expected to hit southern China, causing flight train and ferry cancellations. Flash flooding and road closures are expected throughout the country, likely impacting the ability of first responders to act quickly.