SafeAbroad

6.0-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes New Zealand Leading to Possible Disruptions as of April 5

On 5 April a 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck New Zealand’s North Island at 19:37 local time. Strong to moderate shaking occurred in the Bay of Plenty and Gisborne, and weak to light shaking occurred near North Island and northern South Island. There have been no reported casualties or damage yet. Travel disruptions may occur for damage assessments. Light aftershocks are likely within the coming days.

Train Derailment in Taipei, Taiwan Leaves Over 30 Dead, Dozens Injured

On 2 April, a Taroko Express passenger train headed to Taitung from New Taipei and Shulin derailed in Hualien County. The derailment took place in the Daquingshui tunnel, killing over 30 people and injuring dozens among the 350 passengers believed to be on board. First responders are in the area and Taiwan Railways may face delays.

Severely High Levels of Air Pollution in Nothern Thailand Lasting Until Mid-April

As of 31 March, northern Thailand has reported a severely high level of air pollution. It is predicted these levels will last into at least mid-April. Readings of airborne particulate matter are above 150 in the region. Readings above 150 are considered unhealthy for general populations. The pollution has been predicted to be a result of farmers starting fires to burn undergrowth.

Monsoon Season Throughout Southeast Asia to Last Through April

Monsoon season is expected to cause flooding, landslides, and mudflows throughout Southeast Asia until early April. Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore are among the most at-risk locations. Travel and business may be severely disrupted. Disruptions may continue after heavy rainfall concludes as flooding may take days or weeks to subside. Expect further disruptions from authorities as they attempt to clear landslides and aid the communities.

Adverse Weather Alerts for Northern New Zealand as of March 30

As of 30 March, adverse weather conditions are expected to bring thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and strong winds to portions of northern New Zealand through at least 1 April. Flooding, flash flooding, landslides, power outages, and travel disruptions may be possible due to the conditions. Flights on 30 March at Auckland Airport may experience disruptions due to expected thunderstorms.

Rail Disruptions in Scotland, UK as Transportation Workers Strike Through May 2

Weekly disruptions to the ScotRail will occur until 2 May. Conductors associated with the National Union of Rail, Maritime, and Transport Workers (RMT) plan to strike every Sunday until such date. Strike efforts are to demand increases in overtime pay. Some routes along the ScotRail will have more disruptions than others, specifically, through Edinburgh and Glasgow.

London Heathrow Airport Staff to Strike Between 1-21 April

From 1-21 April border force staff at London Heathrow Airport will establish a work-to-rule action due to the lack of changes in working conditions. The Public and Commercial Services Union scheduled these actions, along with a strike from 1-7 April involving an estimated 450 workers. The strikes will produce delays and disruptions that may continue after 7 April.

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