On October 21, bus drivers across Antwerp, Belgium, initiated a strike, causing major disruptions to transportation. The De Lijn bus drivers have conducted strikes across the region including Turnhout, Hoogstraten, Broechem, Wuustwezel, Mol, Westerlo, Oostmalle, and Heist-op-den-Berg. The duration of the strike is unknown.
From October 24 to November 3, expect railway disruptions due to a nationwide railway workers strike in Portugal. On October 31, there will be a 24-hour strike and from October 28 to October 30, strikes will last two hours each day. Travel delays and cancellations are expected across Portugal on each day of the strike.
Outbound flights are canceled for October 22, at South Charleroi Airport in Brussels, Belgium, due to a security staff strike. Because of the staff shortage, authorities cannot ensure the safety of passengers and staff. Inbound flights will resume, but delays are possible. Flights are expected to resume on October 23.
Storm Ashley issued nationwide weather warnings in Ireland for October 20. Orange wind warnings have been issued for Galway and Mayo and yellow warnings for the rest of Ireland. The storm is expected to bring coastal flooding, large waves, poor driving conditions, damage to buildings, power outages, and severe thunderstorms.
Severe weather will persist in France over the coming days. Heavy rain will affect eastern and southern regions until October 18, while light rain is expected in the west through October 19. Northwestern areas will face strong winds and rain until at least October 21. Flooding, landslides, power outages, and road closures have occurred, and almost 1000 people have been evacuated. Rescue operations are ongoing.
There has been one confirmed fatality.
As of October 18, Cuba is experiencing power outages due to a major failure at the Antonio Guiteras power plant. This has disrupted businesses, transportation, telecommunications, and increased security risks. Protests against the government may occur. Technicians are working to restore power, but there is no estimated timeline for resolution.
In the coming months, individuals in Japan and South Korea should closely monitor developments amid rising tensions with North Korea. Recently, North Korea labeled South Korea a “hostile state” following acts of aggression toward South Korea, including the destruction of roads and railways. South Korean authorities are particularly concerned as the U.S. election approaches on November 5.
Until at least April, expect disruptions to travel and essential services caused by the start of monsoon season in Asia and the Pacific. Flooding, heavy rainfall, and landslides are common, especially in low-lying communities.
Since September 23, Israel has intensified military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon, with expectations for continued conflict. Hezbollah and Iranian-backed groups have expanded their attacks, and both sides have vowed not to back down. Israel does appear willing to launch a limited ground invasion of southern Lebanon.
The US Embassy has issued a Weather Alert for Taiwan, warning of the landfall of Typhoon Julian in the next couple of days. The typhoon will impact Eastern and Southern Taiwan, bringing heavy rain and strong winds. Flooding and landslides are possible.
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