Canada (Security threat level – 2): On 21 May 2022, severe thunderstorms swept through the eastern provinces of Ontario and Quebec, causing widespread damage and power outages. Heavy rainfall and wind gusts of up to 132 kph (82 mph) were recorded during the extreme weather event that extended across an area of more than 620 mi (1,000 km), leaving nearly 900,000 homes and businesses without power. Electricity providers warn that it could take several days to fully restore power to the affected areas. Falling trees killed at least seven people in Ontario, while a boat capsized in the Ottawa River in Quebec, killing one person. Recovery efforts are currently underway, and the Canadian government is preparing to assist those affected by the storms.
China (Security threat level – 3): On 22 May 2022, officials in the capital Beijing extended ongoing coronavirus-related work-from-home requirements in several districts until 28 May as the number of new cases of COVID-19 continues to increase in the city. Residents living and working in the districts of Chaoyang, Haidian, Fengtai Fangshan and Shunyi were advised to continue working from home and to travel outdoors only for essential reasons. Employers have also been told to limit office occupancy to approximately 30% capacity. Operating hours for public transportation, restaurants and shopping malls continue to be curtailed throughout the capital.
Meanwhile in the southern city of Shanghai, authorities continue a phased reopening strategy for the city as public transportation and supermarkets have reopened in several districts where authorities have rescinded lockdown requirements. However, in the city’s western Changning and Xuhui districts, people were reminded to remain inside their residential compounds and to only leave for essential reasons.
India / Bangladesh (Security threat levels – 3 / 4): As of 23 May 2022, widespread flooding and landslides resulting from heavy rainfall continue to affect the Indian states of Assam and Bihar. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority stated that officials have established 269 relief centers and 152 emergency aid distribution centers across the state after more than 91,000 people were displaced by the floods. At least 14 people have died in Assam, while at least 33 others have died in Bihar. Meanwhile in neighboring Bangladesh, more than 4,300 displaced families from the Sunamganj and Sylhet districts have taken refuge in flood shelters. At least 10 weather-related fatalities have been reported in Bangladesh. Additional thunderstorms are in the forecast for northeastern India and eastern Bangladesh until 24 May.
Philippines (Security threat level – 4): On the morning of 22 May 2022, a passenger boat transporting a total of 134 people caught fire off the coast of the Real port in Quezon province, located about 60 km (40 mi) east of Manila. According to a local official, the blaze rapidly spread from the engine of the vessel to the upper passenger deck as the boat was approaching the port. Many people on board then abandoned the ferry and jumped into the sea. Seven people were killed in the event. The Filipino coast guard stated that the remaining passengers were rescued; 24 of those injured were taken to hospitals for medical treatment. The cause of the fire is unknown. The boat was en route to the town of Real from Polillo Island at the time.
Croatia (Security threat level – 2): On 22 May 2022, police officers fired live ammunition warning shots into the air and ground after soccer fans attacked them on a highway in the capital Zagreb with iron bars, bats and flares. Fans of the Hajduk Split soccer team were traveling in a police-escorted convoy — consisting of more than 260 passenger vehicles and buses — when a large group of fans blocked off a section of highway on the outskirts of the capital city and began attacking police officers. At least 35 people were injured in the clashes, and police officers subsequently arrested 43 people on charges of incitement to disorder. The highway was closed for several hours due to the violence. The reason for the unrest is unknown; however, 2,000 fans refused to enter Zagreb Stadium in protest after authorities banned several of their fellow fans from entering the stadium while carrying flares and banners.
France (Security threat level – 3): At approximately 0700 local time (0500 UTC) on 23 May 2022, a security guard employed by the Qatar Embassy in Paris, located in the city’s upscale 8th arrondissement, was murdered in front of the embassy compound. According to local media reports, a physical altercation occurred between the on-duty security guard and his assailant, resulting in the killing. Police officers immediately apprehended the assailant, who reportedly appears to have mental issues. The French prosecutor’s office has launched a homicide probe.
Germany (Security threat level – 3): On 20 May 2022, a tornado swept through the towns of Hellinghausen and Lippstadt and the city of Paderborn, located in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, causing significant damage. Hundreds of firefighters were deployed to the affected areas after the tornado tore roofs off numerous buildings, scattered debris and toppled trees. At least one person was killed in the town of Wittgert, and 43 others were injured in Paderborn. Heavy rainfall and winds gusts of up to approximately 130 kph (80 mph) were recorded throughout the region.
Kuwait (Security threat level – 2): On 23 May 2022, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation stated that flights out of Kuwait International Airport (OKBK/KWI) have been temporarily suspended due to poor visibility caused by a dust storm. The Kuwaiti meteorological service stated that wind gusts are expected to exceed 60 kph (37 mph) and visibility will be less than 500 m (1,640 ft) across the country during the storm, which is projected to last until the early morning of 24 May. Kuwait set a record in the month of May with 25 sandstorms, the country’s highest number of recorded sandstorms in a 30-day period.
Oman (Security threat level – 2): On 22 May 2022, the Omani Supreme Committee lifted all nationwide coronavirus-related restrictions. Travelers are no longer required to adhere to occupancy limits, face mask requirements or social-distancing restrictions in public areas. However, committee officials advise at-risk residents to continue taking additional health precautions to avoid contracting COVID-19.
Sudan (Security threat level – 5): On 21 May 2022, police officers fired live ammunition and tear gas in Omdurman city, located approximately 20 km (10 mi) northwest of the capital Khartoum, to disperse protesters who had gathered to oppose the ruling military junta. The Central Committee of Sudanese Doctors stated that at least one person was killed after being shot in the chest and at least 90 others were injured in the violence.
Albania (Security threat level – 3): On 23 May 2022, the U.S. Embassy in Tirana issued a Security Alert, which reads in part as follows: “On Wednesday, May 25, 2022, the UEFA Europa Conference League Final between the teams of Roma (Italy) and Feyenoord (the Netherlands) will be held at the Tirana National Arena, “Air Albania Stadium.”
“The Albanian government has declared a public holiday in Tirana on May 25. Authorities have announced that multiple roads coming in and out of the city will be open only to emergency vehicles. Numerous roads in the city center, near the Stadium, and throughout Blloku, will be closed to vehicular traffic. This includes the area around the U.S. Embassy, which will be closed.
“The Albanian State Police (ASP) estimate that there will be over 100,000 attendees in Tirana, with supporters arriving and congregating outside the stadium and elsewhere in the city. Albanian authorities will provide details on road closures and disruptions to services.
“The U.S. Embassy strongly advises U.S. citizens to avoid downtown Tirana and the Stadium area on Wednesday May 25. Due to the large crowds expected in Tirana, please use caution throughout the city and be aware of your surroundings. While many large events proceed peacefully, some situations can change quickly and unpredictably. Widespread traffic disruptions are likely due to the magnitude of this event.
“Monitor local media and follow instructions of local law enforcement authorities for the latest information.”
Costa Rica (Security threat level – 3): On 23 May 2022, the U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issued updated travel advice for Costa Rica, which reads in part as follows: “Protests against fuel price increases have been announced for Monday 23 May starting at 6am. They are likely to affect road travel in San Jose and surrounding traffic routes. Check local information and allow extra time for your journey.”
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