Advisories

Flooding and Heavy Rainfall Strikes South Africa Through May 7

As of 5 May, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issues and extended a level 6 orange-level warning through 7 May in the Western Cape Province. Warnings are due to heavy rainfall and likely flooding. Meanwhile, damaging wind and disruptive rain have been reported for areas including Cape Town and the Eastern Cape Province. Closure of the N12 highway at Meiringspoort Pass was also reported due to flooding. The South African Air Force is on standby to provide rescue via helicopters.

Transportation Strikes in Athens, Greece to Lead to Transportation Cancellations and Delays on May 6

A 24-hour strike in Athens on behalf of unionized public transportation workers is set to occur on 6 May. Protests aim to denounce attempts on behalf of the government to undermine labor rights. Cancellations and delays across all public transportation is extremely likely either from the strikes or due to increased demand on available transportation. Protests in city centers likely to be met by police.

Increased Civil Unrest Across Colombia and Protests Near Universities Lead to Violent Clashes and Closure of International Airport as of May 4

Nationwide ongoing protests as of 4 May in Colombia have intensified leading to violent clashes with police. Additionally, protests near the University of Cauca and the Industrial University of Santander have led to looting and have been met with tear gas, water cannons, and stun grenades. Further unrest is expected. As a result of unrest, there have been 17 fatalities and hundreds injured as of protests on 3 May, and Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport has been temporarily closed.

Nationwide Student Protests Across Spain on May 6

On 6 May, nationwide protests will take place as planned by student groups. The main protest will take place in the Ministry of Universities in Madrid at 19:00 local time. The protests are to demand free public education and increased funding. Expect traffic disruptions around areas of protests.

Victory Day Parade in Moscow, Russia on May 9 to Increase Traffic and Possible Disruptions

On 9 May the Victory Day military parade will occur in Moscow’s city center causing travel disruptions throughout the area. Rehearsals in the days prior to the parade will also cause travel disruptions. Road closures, traffic diversions, and delays are likely to occur. Expect increased traffic in and around the area as well as disruptions to various public transportation services.

May Day Demonstrations Across Europe Expected on May 1

In anticipation of May Day, several activist and union groups plan to protest in major cities across Europe to commemorate International Workers’ day on 1 May. Likely forms of protests include marches or gatherings at public locations such as central squares, city centers, or government offices. Attendance will vary but large-scale gatherings can have attendance in the thousands. Large gatherings could cause local transportation disruptions. Clashes may be possible if protests become unruly.

Nationwide Union Protests Across Chile on April 30

On 30 April multiple unions, including the Workers’ United Center plan to hold a strike to denounce the national government’s economic policies. Nationwide protests are likely. Expect such activity around government offices or hospitals. Protests are likely to disrupt transportation, non-emergency health services, and government offices. Clashes with police are likely due to the size of the protests.

N8 and N4 Highways in South Africa Suffering Disruptions Due to Protests

As of 28 April, the N8 highway near Kimberley Airport closed due to protests against service delivery issues. Protesters put burning tires on the road and threw projectiles at vehicles. As of 29 April, the N4 highway is experiencing similar disruption near the Buffelspoort tollgate towards Tshwane (Pretoria). Authorities are responding to manage traffic and protest control. Expect significant traffic on alternate routes.

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