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February 18, 2022
18-February-2022

AMERICAS

Brazil (Security threat level – 3): As of 18 February 2022, search and rescue operations continue in the southeastern city of Petrópolis, located in the mountainous region of the state of Rio de Janeiro, after heavy rains caused significant flooding and landslides on 15 February. At least 120 people were killed, while at least 116 have been reported missing. Authorities evacuated Petrópolis’ 24 de Maio neighborhood on 17 February, as continuing rainfall caused two more landslides in the area; however, there were no reports of additional casualties.

EUROPE

Greece (Security threat level – 2): Shortly after 0400 local time (0200 UTC) on 18 February 2022, a large fire broke out on an Italy-flagged passenger ferry near the Greek island of Ereikousa in the Ionian Sea, located approximately 15 km (10 mi) north of the island of Corfu. The 183-m (600-ft) vessel, carrying 239 passengers and 51 crew members, was en route to the Italian port of Brindisi from the western Greek port of Igoumenitsa at the time. Most passengers and crew members evacuated the vessel on lifeboats and were transported to Corfu. Italian officials stated that 277 people on board the ferry were rescued, although conflicting reports have emerged regarding the number of missing individuals. Four of those rescued, including one crew member, were hospitalized due to breathing complications. There have been no reports of other injuries or deaths so far. Rescue operations were ongoing to evacuate at least two people trapped on the ferry. The blaze reportedly broke out on a vehicle deck and subsequently engulfed the vessel, which is owned by the Italian company Grimaldi Lines. The cause of the fire is unknown.

Malta (Security threat level – 2): On 17 February 2022, Malta’s Ministry of Health announced that as of 14 March face masks will no longer be required in open public spaces; however, masks will still be obligatory indoors and at large-scale events. Health authorities also announced that beginning on 7 March fully vaccinated travelers who have been in contact with a COVID-19 infected person will no longer be required to quarantine. Moreover, the quarantine period for vaccinated travelers who test positive for coronavirus will be reduced to seven days if the patient tests negative on the seventh day. The announcement follows previous reductions in social distancing requirements as vaccination rates in the country increase and new cases decrease.

United Kingdom (Security threat level – 3): Storm Eunice came ashore in the southwestern county of Cornwall, England, on 18 February 2022, with wind gusts of up to 145 kph (90 mph). The storm has caused significant travel disruptions and power outages, particularly in southwestern England and southern Wales. More than 50,000 homes and businesses in the region are without electricity. The storm forced officials at London City Airport (EGLC/LCY) to suspend flight operations until 1630 local time/UTC, and a number of flights have been canceled at London Heathrow Airport (EGLL/LHR). Overground trains to and from the city have also been canceled, while some services in the underground rail network have been suspended. The city’s mayor advised residents to stay indoors and avoid all nonessential travel due to hazardous conditions. Some damage to homes and buildings has been reported. Thus far, there have been reports of at least two weather-related injuries in England, including one in southeastern London.

MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA

Bahrain (Security threat level – 3): On 18 February 2022, authorities announced that travelers will no longer be required to undergo a mandatory COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival in Bahrain as of 20 February. Additionally, on-arrival quarantine requirements will be rescinded the same day. Travelers will then only be required to undergo a rapid on-arrival test if showing symptoms of COVID-19. Those who yield a positive result will be required to undergo a PCR test. Currently, travelers who display a red or yellow shield on the country’s “BeAware” app or those who are not vaccinated are required to quarantine for seven days after arrival.

Jordan (Security threat level – 3): On 17 February 2022, authorities stated that a pre-departure COVID-19 PCR test will no longer be required for travelers seeking entry into Jordan, effective 1 March. The requirement for on-arrival PCR testing will also be annulled. Quarantine for individuals who test positive for COVID-19 will be reduced to five days, starting from the date the test was taken, and quarantine will no longer be required for contacts of individuals infected with COVID-19.

Kuwait (Security threat level – 2): On 18 February 2022, authorities announced that unvaccinated or partially vaccinated foreign nationals may be exempt from quarantine upon arrival in Kuwait if they can produce a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within the previous 72 hours at the time of departure for Kuwait — effective as of 20 February. The latest announcement amends earlier official statements that would have required unvaccinated and partially vaccinated foreign nationals to quarantine upon arrival regardless of pre-departure PCR testing status.

SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

Mauritius (Security threat level – 1): On 18 February 2022, Tropical Storm Emnati strengthened into a cyclone near Rodrigues Island — located approximately 620 km (380 mi) east of Mauritius. As of 1500 UTC, Emnati was moving west-southwest at 15 kph (10 mph) and had maximum sustained winds of 139 kph, according to the U.S. Joint Typhoon Warning Center. The storm is expected to continue intensifying and produce strong winds and heavy rains in Mauritius. A Level One cyclone warning is in force for Rodrigues Island. On its current path, the cyclone is forecast to make landfall in central Madagascar on 22 February.

Nigeria (Security threat level – 5): At approximately 0500 local time (0400 UTC) on 18 February 2022, a fuel tanker collided with a passenger bus and exploded along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in western Ogun state — located about 80 km (50 mi) northeast of Lagos. At least 17 people were killed and several others were injured as a result of the subsequent explosion. Rescue operations remain ongoing, and authorities have advised residents to use alternative routes. According to local officials, the preliminary cause of the collision was likely a driving violation.

GOVERNMENT WARNINGS

Canada (Security threat level – 2): On 17 February 2022, the U.S. Mission to Canada issued an alert for Ottawa, which reads in part as follows: Canadian law enforcement activities pursuant to the declared public order emergency under the Emergencies Act may begin at any time in Ottawa. The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens traveling or resident in Ottawa to avoid Freedom Convoy protest and demonstration areas.

“Monitor the Government of Canada, Government of Ontario, City of Ottawa, and the Ottawa Police Service for additional information on official responses to the demonstrations.”

Ghana (Security threat level – 3): On 17 February 2022, the U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issued updated travel advice for Ghana, which reads in part as follows: “There is an increased Ghanaian military presence in Upper East to strengthen security, centred around Bawku. Travellers should expect more frequent security cordons, and be prepared to show identification for themselves and their drivers. You should be prepared for the security response to change without notice; follow the advice of local authorities.”