President nominates Kulbergs for prime minister; Latvia records first flu death of season

Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs formally nominated Andris Kulbergs, leader of the "Apvienotais saraksts" (United List) party, as candidate for prime minister on 4 November. Kulbergs must now continue talks on forming a new government following the Saeima (parliament) elections.

After meeting the president, Kulbergs said he first wants to hear other parties' proposals: what partners agree with, what they reject, and where they are ready to change their positions. He plans to hold talks with all parties in the new Saeima except "Suverēnā vara/Apvienība Jaunlatvieši", with which no talks are planned.

First flu death

The first person this season has died after contracting influenza in Latvia. The number of people falling ill keeps growing, with children aged 5 to 14 affected most.

Flu vaccines are in short supply for both children and adults because production in Europe is delayed. Some risk groups, such as people with serious illnesses, can obtain vaccines. However, family doctors say regular flu vaccines are currently unavailable, both for purchase and under the state-funded scheme. This affects chronically ill and healthy patients alike. The Centre for Disease Prevention and Control says vaccines will soon be available again, but the Rural Family Doctors Association warns there will not be enough for everyone.

Exercise at the station

Overnight, an exercise simulating a crisis situation will take place at Riga Central railway station. It is organised by the State Police together with Latvian Railways and passenger operator Vivi. Many police, fire and ambulance vehicles may be seen in central Riga and near the railway. Traffic will not be restricted and roads will stay open. Police ask residents not to be alarmed.

Weather

Tomorrow will be cloudy in Latvia, with light rain in places in the east. Daytime temperatures will reach 7–12 degrees, with coastal gusts of up to 15–16 metres per second.