Protests across Japan have been planned for 24 July to combat the restrictions and protective measures against COVID-19. Protests in Okinawa will occur at 16:00 local time, protests in Nagoya will occur at 17:00 local time, protests in Hokkaido will occur at 11:00 local time, and Tokyo protests will occur at 14:30 local time. Expected turnout is unknown.
Civic groups are planning a protest surrounding police brutality and systemic racism for 24 July from 18:00-22:00 local time. The protest will begin at the Platz ohne Namen on Falkensteinstraße 7 and continue on through Berlin.
On 21 July a terrorist threat announcement was issued stating that terrorist attacks may occur leading up to the country’s Independence Day on 15 August. It is expected that militant groups will be the perpetrators. As a result, there is heightened security in place until at least 16 August.
Attacks on taxi drivers have escalated in the past month with over twenty killed and services widely disrupted on 21 July. Thousands of commuters have been affected. Violence in public transport has now spread to Golden Arrow buses, with at least one driver shot on 19 July. These attacks on buses and taxis are expected to remain high for the coming weeks.
On 24 and 25 July, a strike is planned by the company Transportes Urbanos de Santiago S.A. (TUSSA). The strike is to demand negotiations to continue for equality of the working conditions for all employees. Major delays in travel are to be expected as this is a public transportation company and will cause a shortage in transportation options.
Adverse rainfall has caused deadly floods throughout the Henan Province, with a reported death toll number of 25 and 7 people missing. The severe flooding has trapped residents in subway systems, schools, offices, and apartments. This has also caused significant travel disruptions in train services and flights.
On 21 July ambulance workers are beginning a strike in solidarity with other ambulance workers from other regions. This includes EMTs and paramedics. This strike is indefinite until the demands of higher wages and renewal of agreements are met. This will cause significant delays in ambulance arrival if one comes at all.
As of 20 July, heavy rainfall has caused flooding throughout China. This has affected Beijing, Inner Mongolia, Anhui, Fujian, Hebei, and Henan. The storms are expected to continue their damage as they move south and affect Guangdong, Yunnan, and the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Rescue operations are occurring in the affected areas.
From 20 July to 21 July expect flight disruptions at Catania Fontanarossa Airport in Italy due to increased volcanic activity at Mount Etna. Resultant ashfall has also prompted flight delays. Officials have stated there is no immediate threat to the public at this time.
Due to the Summer Olympics taking place in Japan, heightened security and travel delays are expected to occur. On 19 July traffic restrictions will be put in place near competition venues. Dedicated traffic lanes will be put in place for non-Olympic-related travelers. Expect these delays and security presence until at least 9 August.