Perfect Storm of Crises: Food Shortages, Volcanic Threat, Measles Outbreak, and Chemical Pollution Plague the Globe

MIRA Safety is dedicated to keeping our customers informed so that they can be one step ahead of the curve for any relevant SHTF News. We are your one-stop shop for navigating the global chaos.

But the world has been thrown yet another curveball, and things are about to get very interesting.

Food shortages have sparked rare protests in Cuba. A fiery volcano eruption threatens Iceland's iconic Blue Lagoon. In an ominous and developing global health crisis, measles cases are surging around the world.

And to make matters worse in this country, some states are turning a blind eye to environmental regulations enabling more chemical waste to be dumped into our waterways.

Food Shortages Spark Protests in Cuba

Protestors in Cuba (Image courtesy of Yamil Lage)

Cuba is facing critical food shortages. The crisis has been fueled by a lack of hard currency needed to import essential items, and a decline in domestic agricultural production, and has disrupted the government’s decades-old ration system that Cubans have long despised. The situation has resulted in long lines to buy the basic necessities and empty shelves in the state-run markets. There is limited access to staples, such as bread and meat. The frustration boiled over in March 2024, when rare protests erupted across the island.

As if day-to-day life in Cuba weren’t hard enough, new challenges facing the country’s 11.2 million people include regular blackouts. The Cuban government has sought assistance from the World Food Programme, but a long-term solution hinges on acquiring more hard currency or revitalizing domestic agriculture.

Experts warn that without significant improvement, the food shortages could persist and potentially lead to further civil unrest.

Prepping for Food Security: A Practical Approach

Food supply for emergencies (Image courtesy of Envato)

While Cuba's situation might seem far removed, it is not an anomaly. Food supply chains are vulnerable to unforeseen disruptions anywhere.

Preppers know the value of being prepared, and while that doesn't mean building a bunker (although not a bad idea, given where the world seems to be heading) or stockpiling enough beans to last a lifetime, taking some proactive steps, like learning basic food preservation techniques or keeping a well-stocked pantry with a variety of non-perishables, can give you peace of mind and make the most desperate of times easier to endure.

Remember, even a small amount of preparation can make a big difference when faced with temporary food shortages. Rations can significantly improve your situation if you are faced with limited food access. We all remember the first days of the Covid pandemic.

Volcano Threatens Iceland's Iconic Blue Lagoon

Volcanic eruption in Iceland (Image courtesy of Envato)

Iceland's volcanic activity is back in the headlines with an eruption near the Reykjanes peninsula, roughly 40 kilometers from the capital, Reykjavik. It's actually the third eruption in recent months, causing a few disruptions but not widespread danger.

The initial fissure spewing lava is located northeast of the famed Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, a popular tourist destination. Thankfully, the lava flow is currently directed away from Grindavik, a nearby town that previously suffered damage from volcanic activity.

However, the eruption has severed a hot water pipe and cut off a road, impacting some residents. Scientists are monitoring the situation closely, but for now, the Blue Lagoon appears to be out of harm's way.

Predicting volcanic behavior is tricky, and there's always the possibility of the eruption intensifying or shifting direction.

Measles Cases Surging Globally

Doctor preparing vaccine (Image courtesy of Envato)

According to a recent Guardian article, measles cases, once thought under control, are surging worldwide, especially in the US. The spike in cases is likely linked to declining vaccination rates.

Fifty-eight measles cases have been reported in 17 states this year. The incidents have raised alarm bells at the CDC (Center for Disease Control).
It can take roughly 11-12 days for people to show symptoms, making measles extremely easy to spread if not kept in check. Due to the disease being highly contagious, every single case of infection should see any contacts isolated.

• In Ohio, at least 1000 people attending a Disney on Ice performance have possibly been exposed to the virus.

• This resurgence poses a serious public health threat, especially for vulnerable populations like young children and those with compromised immune systems.

The reasons behind the outbreak are likely due to a drop in vaccination rates. The issue of inoculations are complex–and, after Covid, have become a divisive political issue. Some parents may also delay or forgo vaccinations due to convenience or cost concerns, as well as a result of limited access to health care.   

The decline in vaccination numbers has created pockets of susceptible individuals, allowing the measles virus to spread more easily. The consequences of this surge can be severe.

The good news is that this once-feared disease was nearly eradicated thanks to the measles vaccine

Note: Measles is a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening illness.

Chemical Pollution Plaguing the Globe

• The food and agriculture industries were responsible for the largest percentage of chemicals discharged into waterways.

• One of the reasons for this finding stems from farmers having to rely on synthetic fertilizers in a bid to keep up with modern supply demands.

• Nitrogen pollution, especially through overuse of crop fertilizers, found its way into the Gulf of Mexico, where it contributed to a mass die-off of wildlife and fish, totaling a whopping $2 billion in damages per annum.

While these facts are cause for concern, it's important to know how to ensure your water supply is not tainted by chemical contamination, and how to react when a chemical emergency SHTF event occurs near you.

How To Prepare For Chemical Threats

Image courtesy of Envato

Invest in a good water filtration system
Look for a water filtration system that is certified to remove a wide range of contaminants, including chemicals. Regularly maintain your filter according to the manufacturer's instructions.
It's always a great idea to keep a stockpile of bottled water in case of emergencies. Rotate your stock every six months to ensure freshness.

Assemble an emergency kit

Emergency Care Kit (Image courtesy of Envato)

This should include a battery-powered radio, a gas mask or respirator (rated N95 or higher for best protection), duct tape, plastic sheeting to create a temporary shelter, bottled water, and non-perishable food. Regularly check the expiration dates on your supplies and replace them as needed.

Note: Sign up for emergency alerts from your local authorities. This will ensure you receive timely warnings and instructions in case of a chemical incident. 

Best Gas Masks For Emergency Situations

• This mask is designed to shield you from a vast array of CBRN threats. In a chaotic situation where the specific contaminant is unknown, this versatility is invaluable. 

Tip: Familiarize yourself with the different types of chemical threats and their symptoms.

Heartwarming Surprise for a Campus Security Guard

In a heartwarming story, college students surprised their beloved dorm security guard with a trip back home to visit his family for the first time in over ten years.

Touched by the guard’s endless dedication and touching kindness, the students secretly raised the money needed to cover the air travel costs.  The emotional moment of the surprise was captured on video, showcasing the students' generosity and the security guard's overwhelming joy.