On 4 November, following incoming intelligence including information regarding terrorist capabilities and intentions, the United Kingdom increased the terror level to SEVERE, meaning an attack is highly likely. This upgrade is a precautionary measure to maintain national security in the country following recent attacks that took place in Austria and France.
On 4 November, Portugal will reimpose a partial lockdown due to COVID-19. This lockdown is scheduled to last for 15 days affecting at least 121 municipalities, including the Lisbon area. Measures include a curfew for non-essential businesses and traveling outside the residence is only permitted for essential purposes such as work, school, and grocery shopping.
Shooting outside a synagogue on Seitenstettengasse at approximately 20:40 local time. Multiple people have been injured. There are reports claiming the assailant died via suicide belt. Other reports indicate that the assailant is still on the run. There may be more than one person responsible. There has been one casualty and gunfire between police and the assailant has been exchanged.
Incident Details
Individuals should anticipate disruptions over the coming days during the passage of Tropical Storm Eta. Eta is expected to intensify into a hurricane as it moves towards the northeastern coast of Nicaragua. This storm is projected to make landfall on 2 November. Tropical Storm Eta is expected to cause up to 25 inches (63 centimeters) of rain in certain locations.
Traveler Safety
SafeAbroad travelers are advised to monitor developments and plan journeys in advance. Travelers should not attempt to cross flooded roads, and instead, seek higher ground. Contact your program leaders if you have questions.
On 28 October, the Belgian government released measures sending the country into a partial nationwide lockdown due to COVID-19. The following restrictions will be in place until 19 November: various businesses are forced to close, only essential facilities, open-air establishments, some sports facilities, places of worship, cultural venues, outdoor playgrounds, and nature parks are allowed to operate.
Following a surge in COVID-19 cases, UK authorities have declared a nationwide lockdown from 5 November until 2 December. During this time, non-essential businesses and the hospitality sector will close, and working from home is mandatory when possible. The mixing of household groups will be limited. Schools and universities will remain open.
The French government raised the national terrorism threat to maximum level (‘emergency attack’) on 29 October, following the terrorist knife attack at Notre-Dame basilica in Nice. Attacks are likely related to President Macron’s 21 October remarks on caricatures of the prophet Muhammad. Expect heightened security at religious sites, schools, major tourist landmarks, and transportation hubs nationwide.
French President Emmanuel Macron has issued a national lockdown order, a reassessment will be made on 1 December. Leaving the home will be limited to essential trips such as medical appointments and work. Restaurants, bars, and other non-essential businesses will close, schools and factories will remain open with strict guidelines.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel has declared a second partial national lockdown, a reassessment will be made in two weeks. Tourism is now paused, bars and restaurants will once again be limited to takeaway only, yet schools will remain open. Social contacts will also be limited and those traveling into Germany will be required to take a COVID-19 test and quarantine for a brief period.
Members in Nice in the coming hours, on 29 October, should continue to avoid the vicinity of the Notre-Dame basilica. A security operation is ongoing after a fatal stabbing incident in which approximately three people were killed around 9:00 local time and others were injured. The area is now being cordoned off by security forces and a terrorism investigation has been launched. The suspect has been apprehended and transferred to the hospital.
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