Latvia issues 'orange' alert for airspace threat in eastern municipalities

An "orange" cell broadcast alert was issued overnight for residents in Latvia's Alūksne, Balvi, Rēzekne, Preiļi, and Augšdaugava municipalities, warning of an airspace threat. The alert, disseminated via 112.lv, urged citizens to seek shelter indoors and adhere to the "two-wall" principle for safety. The National Armed Forces (NBS) advised the public not to approach any low-flying, suspicious, or dangerous objects and to call the emergency number 112 if sighted.

Further information regarding the end of the threat will be provided separately. The NBS confirmed the airspace danger via a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating: "AIRSPACE THREAT IN AUGŠDaugava, PREIĻI, RĒZEKNE AND BALVI MUNICIPALITIES. ACT! We inform you that there is a threat in Latvia's airspace. Go indoors, follow the two-wall principle! Follow official announcements. If you spot a low-flying or suspicious object..."

Similar cell broadcast alerts have been received by residents in the Latgale region previously. These alerts were likely connected to drones associated with the Russia-Ukraine war approaching or entering Latvian airspace. The proximity of the conflict to Latvia's eastern border has led to heightened security awareness and preparedness measures.

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AIRSPACE THREAT IN AUGŠDaugava, PREIĻI, RĒZEKNES UN BALVU NOVADOS. RĪKOJIES! Informējam, ka Latvijas gaisa telpā ir apdraudējums. Dodies telpās, ievēro divu sienu principu! Seko oficiālajiem paziņojumiem. Ja pamani zemu lidojošu vai aizdomīgu…