Brazil: The lowest rainfall levels since 1930 have led to a severe water shortage in Sao Paulo, causing water rationing in the country’s commercial capital of 20 million people. Many homes and businesses are experiencing drastically reduced access to water, with taps shut off several hours per day. Some reports indicate that even hospitals are being hit by the drought. Tourists should check with hotels and follow local news for updates on the drought, which stretches in large swaths from Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro.
Italy: Gas stations along the country’s highways announced a 48-hour strike to start at 10 p.m. Tuesday. The strikes, which are a response to what service station managers say are increasing rents and a 1,400 percent increase in fuel taxes over the last six years, are expected to cause traffic delays. Another nationwide strike, this time at the country’s ports, will last for 24 hours starting Friday. The port strikes are in response to proposed reforms by the transport and economic development ministries.
Kenya: The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi announced that a group claiming to be al-Shabab called for extremist Muslim groups to attack shopping malls in the country and elsewhere through a video posted online, and warned tourists of possible continued terrorist activity across the country. There currently is no information available about a specific attack, but travelers are encouraged to maintain heightened personal security awareness while visiting the country.
Australia: Health officials announced an outbreak of the mosquito-borne Ross River virus in the southeast region of Queensland, reporting that nearly 1,000 people have been infected so far this year, far more than usual. With wet weather and warm temperatures improving conditions for mosquito breeding, some health authorities predict that thousands more could be infected in coming weeks. Symptoms first appear within three to 11 days after infection and can include fever, head and joint aches, skin rashes and fatigue. Most symptoms subside after six weeks, but some people may be ill for several months. There is no vaccine for the virus, so travelers should be vigilant about protecting themselves against mosquito bites.
Japan: The East Japan Railway Co. announced that the new Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet train begins service March 14, just in time for the cherry blossom-viewing tourist season. From Tokyo, the train travels north with stops in Nagano, Toyama and Kanazawa. The high-speed train reduces travel time significantly and includes other popular tourist destinations along the route such as Takada Castle and Zenkoji Temple.
Compiled from news services and travel sources. For updates, check with the State Department at 888-407-4747, travel.state.gov.