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Worldview Security Update – September 13, 2019
13-Sep-19

AMERICAS

Bahamas / United States (Security threat levels – 2 / 2): On 13 September 2019, Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine formed in the eastern Caribbean Sea. According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center, as of 1200 UTC, the storm was located approximately 225 km (140 mi) southeast of Great Abaco Island, Bahamas. As of that time, the storm was moving northwest at 9 kph (6 mph) and had maximum sustained winds of 45 kph with higher gusts. The storm is expected to strengthen into a tropical depression or tropical storm during the next 48 hours. It is forecast to move across the central and northwestern portions of the Bahamas through 13 September before approaching the eastern coast of the U.S. state of Florida on 14 September.

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for northwestern Bahamas, excluding Andros Island. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect from Jupiter Inlet north to the Flagler-Volusia county line, Florida. Tropical storm conditions are expected in northwestern Bahamas through 13 September and along the watch area of Florida by 14 September. At least 5-10 cm (2-4 in) of rainfall is in the forecast across the Bahamas and southeastern coast of the U.S. from Florida to South Carolina.

ASIA

China (Security threat level – 3): On 13 September 2019, Hong Kong’s Appeal Board on Public Meetings and Processions upheld a police ban on a planned protest march by the Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF) in the city on 15 September. The march was scheduled to take place from East Point road in Causeway Bay to Chater road in Central. The CHRF indicated that it will abide by the decision, but will still apply for permission to hold additional protests on 28 September and 1 October. The board also upheld a ban on an unrelated protest in Tin Shui Wai on 14 September. Authorities initially banned both protests, citing security concerns. Protests could still proceed as planned despite the bans.

EUROPE

United Kingdom (Security threat level – 2): On 13 September 2019, flight operations at Heathrow Airport (EGLL/LHR) continued normally despite plans by Heathrow Pause — a faction of the environment activist group Extinction Rebellion — to ground airport operations by flying drones in the airport’s exclusive zone. The activists’ claimed that they were able to successfully launch one drone despite technical difficulties and accused the airport of jamming the drones’ signals. Meanwhile, the British Metropolitan Police have issued a dispersal order, which remains in effect until 0430 local time (0330 UTC) on 15 September. Police officers have arrested at least nine people in connection with the planned airport disruption.

MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA

Algeria (Security threat level – 4): On 13 September 2019, officials in Algiers reported that large-scale flash floods on 12 September have caused disruptions to the local subway system and hampered travel on major roads. Houari Boumedienne International Airport (DAAG/ALG) is operating normally following brief flood-related delays on 12 September. The city received 50 mm (2 in) of rain over a 40-minute period. Additional rainfall is in the forecast for the evening of 13 September as well as for 14 September, and officials have urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel in the city.

GOVERNMENT WARNINGS

Guatemala (Security threat level – 4): On 12 September 2019, the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City issued a Security Alert, which reads in part as follows:

“Location: Guatemala

“Event: Beginning Friday, September 13th through Sunday, September 15th, 2019, expect heavy traffic on all roads throughout Guatemala due to Independence Day celebrations and activities.
“Celebrations within Guatemala City will begin to impact traffic on Friday, originating from the Obelisco in zone 10. Participation is expected to number in the tens of thousands. Similar events are expected in each Department of Guatemala.

“On Saturday, September 14th, celebratory torch runs in Guatemala City will begin at 8:00 a.m. from the Obelisco and major traffic delays should be expected throughout the day. “On Sunday, September 15th, traffic in zone 1 will be impacted by a parade centering around Plaza de la Constitución and ending on 18 Calle and 6a Avenida.

“Many of the running groups will travel to various Departments on foot and with vehicle support. These activities will impact traffic outside of Guatemala City.”

Nicaragua (Security threat level – 4): On 12 September 2019, the U.S. Embassy in Managua issued a Demonstration Alert, which reads in part as follows:

"Location: Managua

"Event: The Embassy has advised personnel of potential traffic disruption and strong police presence due to a possible protest march by the Movimiento Campesino staring at 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 13 on Masaya Highway between John Paul Genie traffic circle and Central American University. Additional demonstrations may occur in Managua or elsewhere in Nicaragua with little or no notice. Please monitor local media for updates, and remember that violence may break out at any demonstration."

Spain (Security threat level – 3): On 13 September 2019, the U.K. Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) issued updated travel advice for Spain, which reads in part as follows: “Spain’s meteorological office (AEMET) has issued an “extreme risk” weather warning for the regions of Valencia, Alicante, Murcia, Almeria and Balearic Islands due to torrential rain. Flash floods are causing road closures and serious disruption to transport services. You can follow information about the weather warning here . If you are in these areas you should exercise extreme caution and follow the advice of the local authorities."

Tanzania (Security threat level – 3): On 13 September 2019, the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam issued a Health Alert, which reads in part as follows:

“The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a statement regarding rumors surrounding the death of a person due to an unknown illness in Dar es Salaam. WHO has also announced plans to deploy to Tanzania a technical team which will urgently investigate the case.

“The United States has long been committed to supporting Tanzanian health and is prepared to partner with the local government and the international community to assist in the efforts.

“The U.S. Embassy will send updates as warranted. Additional information can be found by checking the World Health Organization’s situation reports and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) outbreak reports.
“Actions to Take:

Monitor media for updates."