Authorities at the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre raised the threat level of international terrorism in the UK from “substantial” to “severe” Aug. 29. This is the second-highest rating possible and indicates that an attack is highly likely, but not imminent. The security authority cited ongoing developments in Syria and Iraq as one of the reasons for the increased threat level. The change in status will trigger the deployment of additional security personnel to transport hubs, and will allow for an increased level of surveillance. However, raising the alert level is unlikely to have a direct security impact on the general public.

There will be a major demonstration by the far-right ‘Svesnkarnas Parti’ on Aug. 30, in downtown Stockholm, with a significant counter-demonstration also planned. Similar events elsewhere in Sweden have become violent. Avoid all demonstrations and follow the advice of the local authorities.

The union representing most of Air France’s pilots has warned it will strike from September 15th to 22nd, but has reserved to extend the labour action if necessary.

Iceland Met authorities have again raised the warning code for aviation to red after an eruption near the Bardarbunga volcano. The red alert is the highest warning and means “eruption is imminent” with “significant emission of volcanic ash likely”. Icelandic Air Traffic Control has closed the airspace above the eruption site up to 18,000 feet. No volcanic ash has been detected with the radar system at the moment and seismic eruption tremor is low indicating effusive eruption without significant explosive activity.

Mount Tavurvur, a volcano in Papua New Guinea’s East New Britain Province, erupted early Aug. 29, sending a plume of ash and debris about 11 miles into the air. The ash is currently situated west of the volcano and is traveling northward; however, authorities fear that the cloud will begin spreading south in the near future. If it moves south, it could travel over eastern Australia in the coming days, likely severely affecting air traffic. Airlines are already on alert due to the ash plume. Qantas has revealed plans to detour several flights around the plume. Other airlines continue to monitor the plume, and may also be forced to reroute flights between East Asia and eastern Australia.

Thailand