U.S. Department of State Warden Message – Immediate Evacuation Information

February 27, 2011

This Warden Message is being sent to notify U.S. citizens desiring to depart Libya of the following evacuation options.  U.S. citizens are reminded to check http://libya.usembassy.gov/evacuation.html frequently for the most up-to-date evacuation information.  U.S. citizen travelers should remember to bring valid travel documents, food, water, any necessary medications and should limit baggage to 1 suitcase per person.  U.S. citizens wishing to depart on any of these transportation options should send an e-mail to LibyaEmergencyUSC@state.gov providing their personal information (name, date of birth, and passport number).

Air transport from Tripoli: a Romanian charter flight will depart Tripoli International Airport on Monday, February 28, at approximately 2:00 p.m. local time, with only a very limited number of seats. 

Sea transport from Ras Lanuf and Misuratah:  The Turkish Government has chartered two ferries from Ras Lanuf and Misuratah.  They will arrive early morning on February 28.  The ferries will depart after embarkation, but times are to be decided.

Sea transport from As Sidrah:  A Greek cargo vessel, the Hellas Warrior, is scheduled to arrive in As Sidrah oil port on Feb. 28.  It plans to depart on Tuesday, March 1. 

The United States warns U.S. citizens against travel to Libya and recommends that U.S. citizens in Libya depart immediately.  The United States advised the Government of Libya that it has suspended all embassy operations effective February 25, 2011, given ongoing violence and a deteriorating security situation.  All official U.S. embassy personnel and their family members have departed. 

The U.S. Department of State continues to reach out to U.S. citizens we believe remain in Libya.  The Department is working closely with other governments and multinational corporations to ensure the safe departures of those U.S. citizens who still need assistance.  Please direct inquiries regarding U.S. citizens in Libya to LibyaEmergencyUSC@state.gov. Callers in the United States and Canada may dial the toll free number 1-888-407-4747. Callers outside the United States and Canada may dial 1 -202-501-4444.  

The Department of State urges those U.S. citizens who decide to remain in Libya despite this Travel Warning to enroll their stay in Libya through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at www.travel.state.gov, and to provide their current contact information and next-of-kin information.  For up-to-date travel information, follow us on Twitter.

The United States will appoint a protecting power to assist any remaining U.S. citizens in Libya and oversee its property.  Please see the Country Specific Information for Libya on the Department of State's website at www.travel.state.gov, which will be updated as additional details become available.