On-Going Threat of Explosions in Tegucigalpa

November 19, 2009

To: All American Citizens
From: American Citizens Services Unit, Consular Section

The U.S. Embassy advises all American citizens visiting or residing in Honduras that there was an explosion at the TIGO Building on Boulevard Morazán in Tegucigalpa on November 18 at approximately 11:40 p.m. The bomb exploded outside the building and damaged two vehicles, a gas tank, and the building facade and windows. No one was injured.

Due to recent attacks against radio and telecommunications facilities in and around Tegucigalpa, the U.S. Embassy has advised its employees to stay clear of these facilities and their surroundings during late evening and early morning hours. The U.S. Embassy recommends that all American citizens follow this advice.

The U.S. Embassy has received information that the airports in both Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula are enacting stricter security measures. All visitors are being screened by security personnel prior to entering the building.Due to the sometimes lengthy lines during this screening process, some passengers have missed their flights. The U.S. Embassy recommends that American citizens give themselves extra time when utilizing airport facilities.

The U.S. Embassy recommends that American citizens exercise extreme caution when in public places and be aware of their surroundings for anything suspicious. American citizens are reminded to avoid large crowds and that even peaceful demonstrations may turn violent.

The Embassy recommends that American citizens monitor local television and radio for any changes to constitutional and travel restrictions and other security measures. The Embassy strongly recommends that American citizens abide by these restrictions.

The U.S. Embassy distributes its warden messages via email, and posts them on its website. Messages received via SMS to cell phones are not U.S. Embassy messages and do not reflect U.S. government travel advice.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet website, where the current Travel Warnings and Public Announcements, including the Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, can be found.

Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Americans living or traveling in Honduras are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Honduras. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.

The U.S. Embassy is located on Avenida La Paz in Tegucigalpa; telephone (504) 238-5114, after hours telephone (504) 236-8497; Consular Section fax (504) 238-4357; E-mail: usahonduras@state.gov; Webpage: http://honduras.usembassy.gov