LSDS Global Snapshot for the Week of February 9, 2026
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
LSDS continues to monitor safety and security developments worldwide, focusing on emerging issues that may impact travel, operations, and risk planning.
Strikes and Protests
In Italy, labor disruptions and protests continue in Milan, with train service interruptions affecting areas near, but not directly at, Olympic sites.
In the United States, protest activity is ongoing in Washington, D.C., with additional activity expected in historically protest-prone cities including Portland, Seattle, Minneapolis, and other major metropolitan areas. Primary drivers include issues related to DHS and ICE.
Internationally, protests are being influenced by reactions to Israel’s actions in and around Gaza, recent U.S. immigration policy changes, and broader U.S. foreign policy decisions.
Weather and Natural Disasters
Across the United States, extreme cold is affecting several regions, followed by a brief warm-up and a return to colder conditions with precipitation, creating potential “whiplash” impacts.
In the Pacific Northwest, heavy rainfall is moving inland and contributing to significant snowfall in the Rocky Mountains. In Europe, Portugal and Spain are preparing for additional flooding as Storm MARTA approaches, following earlier severe flooding.
In the Asia-Pacific region, the Philippines is expecting severe storms, Japan is experiencing cold-weather impacts including heavy snow, and northwestern Australia continues to be affected by Hurricane Mitchell.
Geopolitical Tensions
U.S.–Iran relations remain elevated, with increased dialogue, rhetoric, and military posturing. Iranian naval vessels have operated near U.S. vessels in recent days.
Airspace disruptions have been reported in the region, leading several airlines to reroute, delay, or pause flights.
United Nations Financial Situation
The United Nations is facing significant financial strain in 2026 due to delinquent contributions from member states. Without increased funding or major restructuring, operational impacts are expected.
Health Update: U.S. Measles Outbreak
As of February 6, 2026, 733 measles cases have been reported in the United States, with 145 new cases in the past week. Approximately 95 percent of cases involve individuals who are unvaccinated or of unknown vaccination status. About 4 percent, or roughly 29 cases, are among fully vaccinated individuals.
Key Considerations
Weather events and protest activity may affect travel and operational planning in identified regions. Continued monitoring of U.S.–Iran developments, the UN’s financial situation, and the measles outbreak is recommended.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS:
Spain Rail strike and protests in madrid over the next couple days.
Protests in Syndey Australia in conjunction with PM Netanyahu’s visit to the country
DISCLAIMER and Hold Harmless Disclaimer: LSDS™ gathers information from multiple sources and offers insight and perspective to travelers. Sources cannot be validated for accuracy in every instance. Travelers assume all risk associated with their travel and are responsible for the decisions associated with travel and for their own safety. Users of this reference document agree, to hold harmless LSDS™ (LLC) its employees and clients associated with any risk or injury incurred during travel.
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