Security Alert – for France on July 19, 2019

Subject: Security Alert for France on July 19, 2019
 
Location: Paris, Marseille, and other major cities including but not limited to Lyons, Montpellier, Nice, and Toulon.
 
Event:

Large gatherings in major French cities are expected on Friday, July 19, 2019 following the Africa Cup of Nations final soccer match between Algeria and Senegal.  The match begins at 9:00 p.m.

Disruptions in Swiss cities are not expected.  This message is being disseminated due to frequent travel to France by American citizens in Switzerland.

Celebrations in French cities following earlier matches in the tournament included dangerous driving, vandalism, destruction of property, and trash fires in popular tourist areas.  In Paris, this included the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, and along the Seine River.  In Marseille, the unrest was largely focused along the Vieux Port and up La Canabière through the neighborhood of Noailles.

You should expect increased police presence and traffic and transit disruptions throughout France.

Please see the U.S. Embassy France website for additional security and travel information.

Actions to take:
  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Exercise caution and avoid large gatherings or protests
  • Monitor local media for updates
  • Keep a low profile
  • Notify friends and family of your safety

U.S. citizens may monitor English-language French media at the following sites:

Assistance: U.S. Embassy Paris, France
+33 (1) 43 12 22 22
CitizenInfo@state.govU.S. Consulate General Marseille, France
+33 (1) 43 12 22 22U.S. Embassy Bern, Switzerland
031 357 70 11 (dialing within Switzerland)
+41 31 357 70 11 (dialing from overseas)State Department – Bureau of Consular Affairs
+1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada)
+1-202-501-4444 (from other countries)