ASIA

Kazakhstan (Security threat level – 4): On 12 January 2022, authorities banned all public events and closed theaters, karaoke bars and nightclubs in the capital Nur-Sultan until further notice amid concerns regarding surging numbers of COVID-19 cases. Religious events – including Friday public prayers – conferences, forums, and seminars are prohibited under the rules. Restaurants may remain open, but bars inside restaurants must close. The new rules were implemented amid existing restrictions imposed by officials to stem unrest during 2-10 January.

Nepal (Security threat level – 3): On 11 January 2022, authorities banned gatherings of more than 25 people until further notice and closed schools until at least 29 January over concerns regarding the spread of the omicron variant of COVID-19. Additionally, as of 21 January proof of COVID-19 vaccination will be required for entry into public areas, such as hotels, restaurants, cinemas, government buildings and parks.

AUSTRALASIA

Australia (Security threat level – 2): On 12 January 2022, Tropical Cyclone Tiffany made landfall near Limmen National Park in Northern Territory, generating severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the storm is expected to continue moving west across Northern Territory and into northeastern Western Australia state through 15 January as it dissipates. Authorities have warned of strong winds, potential flash flooding and rainfall totals of up to 200 mm (8 inches) in some areas of Northern Territory’s Top End region as Tiffany passes.

MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA

Tunisia (Security threat level – 3): On 12 January 2022, authorities announced that as of 13 January a nationwide coronavirus-related nightly curfew will be in effect during 2200-0500 local time (2100-0400 UTC) and all public gatherings will be banned. Authorities also urged residents to avoid travel in the country unless absolutely necessary. The new rules were announced two days prior to a planned demonstration against President Kais Saied organized by several major political parties. Opposition leaders criticized the new restrictions, claiming they were implemented to prevent criticism of the president.

SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

Somalia (Security threat level – 5): On 12 January 2022, a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) detonated along Avisione street near Aden Adde International Airport (HCMM/MGQ) in the Waberi district of the capital Mogadishu. Emergency services reported that at least eight people were killed and 11 more suffered injuries in the attack, which reportedly targeted a convoy. Multiple vehicles and buildings were also damaged or destroyed in the blast. The al-Shabaab militant group, which regularly carries out attacks in Mogadishu, claimed responsibility for the bombing shortly afterward.

GOVERNMENT WARNINGS

Bolivia (Security threat level – 3): On 11 January 2022, the U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issued updated travel advice regarding coronavirus-related restrictions, which reads in part as follows: “As of 26 January 2022 vaccination certificates, or negative PCR test taken within 48 hours will be required to enter any public building including banks, supermarkets, cinemas, bars, and internal flights and bus journeys.”

China (Security threat level – 3): On 11 January 2022, the U.S. Embassy in Beijing issued a Security Alert regarding tightened coronavirus-related restrictions, which reads in part as follows: “In response to local outbreaks of COVID-19, including the new Omicron variant, People’s Republic of China (PRC) authorities are expanding prevention and control measures in certain cities and communities. These measures may include mass testing, closures, transportation disruptions, lockdowns, and possible family separation. Consult local media and websites regarding the most current restrictions for your area. Failure to follow the instructions of your local authorities may further complicate problems U.S. Citizens may encounter.

“The U.S. Embassy in Beijing and Consulates General in Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang, and Wuhan are aware of reports of food and medical shortages in some affected areas and are monitoring conditions closely. The Embassy and Consulates General understand anxieties around questions of food and medical supply, communication difficulties, and isolation under tight quarantine rules.”

Kazakhstan (Security threat level – 4): On 11 January 2022, the U.S. Mission in Kazakhstan issued a Security Alert regarding recent unrest, which reads in part as follows: “The U.S. government raised the Travel Advisory for Kazakhstan recently to reflect level 4, “Do Not Travel” due to civil unrest, in addition to Level 4 for COVID-19. U.S. citizens are reminded that a nationwide curfew remains in place in Kazakhstan from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. Almaty’s curfew is in place from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. In other cities, an extended curfew may begin as early as 7 p.m. Please check carefully for restrictions in your locale.

”The airport in Almaty has been closed since January 2; however, the Almaty train station is now open and operating trains to Nur-Sultan. From Nur-Sultan it is possible to secure follow-on commercial flight opportunities. The U.S. government urges U.S. citizens interested in departing Kazakhstan to use this option as their primary means of departing Almaty and Kazakhstan. We will continue to advise U.S. citizens if/when commercial air travel options to depart the country become available from Almaty.”