On March 13, a landslide in Esmeraldas, Ecuador, ruptured a Petroecuador oil pipeline, spilling crude over 50 miles and polluting the Esmeraldas River. Authorities have declared an environmental emergency as the spill continues to disrupt water access, agriculture, and fishing. As of March 18, health officials have reported over 100 cases of respiratory illness and skin irritation linked to exposure.
From September 23 to September 26, there will be planned power outages nationwide in Ecuador from 10 PM to 6 AM due to a nationwide energy crisis. Curfews will be put into place and disruptions to transportation and telecommunications are expected.
From September 18 at 10 PM to September 19 at 6 AM there will be a planned power outage nationwide in Ecuador to allow for maintenance work. The outage will impact transportation and businesses, leading to potential disruptions in internet service, ATMs, and fueling stations. Electronic security systems may also be affected, which could increase the risk of criminal activity.
On January 8, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa declared a state of emergency following the escape of the country’s most dangerous drug lord from prison and an increase in associated unrest nationwide, including amongst penitentiaries. The state of emergency will last for 60 days. The military will be deployed to combat criminal groups responsible for spreading violence, a curfew has been established, and the right to assembly has been paused. Law enforcement officials from the United States have been sent to Ecuador to collaborate with the government to prevent the growth of transnational criminal organizations in light of José Adolfo Macías Villamar’s escape.
• Madrid, Spain: Protest Advisory | On February 21, a protest involving tractor convoys is expected to take place outside the Ministry of Agriculture. Travelers should expect travel disruptions and avoid all demonstrations by planning alternative routes.
• Nationwide, Haiti: Protest Advisory | Over the coming days, expect nationwide protests demanding the resignation of the Prime Minister. Past protests became violent, resulting in multiple deaths. Travelers are advised to avoid all demonstrations and monitor local media for updates.
• Nationwide, Indonesia: Security Advisory | Following the general elections on February 14 and leading up to the release of the results on March 20, expect heightened security across Indonesia. Protests are likely. Travelers should carry ID with them at all times and obey all security directives.
• Nicosia and Limassol, Cyprus: Protest Advisory | On February 24, protests will occur in support of Ukraine and denouncing Russia’s invasion. Protestors are expected to gather outside the Russian Embassy in Nicosia and outside the Consulate General of Russia in Limassol. Travelers should not participate in protests, avoid large crowds, plan routes around protests, and monitor the media for updates.
• Madrid, Spain: Protest Advisory | On February 21, large demonstrations across Madrid may block major highways and roads. Demonstrators are protesting in response to similar actions across Europe against EU farming policies. Plan alternative means of transportation to avoid traveling near demonstration sites.
• Guayaquil, Ecuador: Weather Advisory | Over the coming days, Guayaquil will likely experience residual effects from recent heavy rain. Debris from flooding, downed power lines, and residual floods are likely to present hazards. Expect travel delays, practice enhanced situational awareness, and monitor local news.
• Newtown, Australia: Protest Advisory | On February 18, LGBTQIA+ activists in Australia will gather to raise awareness on issues facing their community. The event is planned at Pride Square at 2:00 PM. Travelers should expect delays surrounding the protest venue.
• Multiple Countries: Weather Advisory | Through at least February 12, weather alerts for Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia have been issued. Thunderstorms carrying heavy rain, wind, and hail are expected to affect the area. Be aware of potential flash floods, seek shelter and high ground as needed, and monitor weather reports.
On January 8 President Daniel Noboa declared a nationwide state of emergency in Ecuador until March 8 to get a handle on prison riots and organized crime throughout the country. The SOE comes with significant restrictions to personal freedoms of individuals including right to assembly and a curfew from 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM, with exceptions only for essential staff and those with flights during these hours.
Unknown gunmen assassinated presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio outside of Quito, Ecuador late August 9. The gunmen shot at Villavicencio while he was leaving a rally and entering his vehicle. The attack appears to be premeditated, and police have announced that six foreign nationals have been arrested in association with the shooting. Quito is expected to see increased security as the assassination is investigated.
Heavy rain and thunderstorm warnings have been issued for multiple provinces across central and eastern Ecuador, as well as the northern coasts. The storms are forecast through at least September 25. This is likely to cause some electronic disruptions. Flooding and landslides are possible, which may require evacuations. Any flooding is likely to impact travel if roadways and bridges become impassable.
On 25 October, all taxi transportation services in Manchala, Ecuador will go on strike. The event will be held to protest the rise in fear caused by rising fuel prices. Commuters may face inconveniences as a result of the protest.
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