The U.S. embassy in Haiti is urging its citizens to not travel to Haiti, and for any citizens currently in the country to leave as soon as possible.

The travel advisory comes in the wake of anti-government gangs that have been battling police and have already shut down both of the country’s international airports. On March 3, a mass prison break in Port-au-Prince led the government to declare a state of emergency after thousands of inmates escaped.

In a post on Sunday, the embassy reminded travelers that the U.S. State Department’s Travel Advisory for Haiti remains at Level Four, or “Do Not Travel.” Other level 4 countries include Russia, Syria and Burkina Faso.

“U.S. citizens in Haiti should depart Haiti as soon as possible by commercial or other privately available transportation options, in light of the current security situation and infrastructure challenges,” the State Department said in its initial advisory, posted on July 27, 2023.

“Do not travel to Haiti. The current security situation in Haiti is unpredictable and dangerous,” the embassy said in its most recent post.

“We are aware that there are few or no commercial options to depart Haiti safely at this time. As they become available, we urge U.S. citizens to take advantage of them,” the embassy continued. “While the U.S. Embassy is unable to facilitate travel out of the country, U.S. citizens in Haiti who wish to record their presence and provide updated contact information should complete our crisis intake form.”

The U.S. military flew forces into Haiti over the weekend in order to beef up security at the U.S. Embassy in Haiti and allow nonessential personnel to leave, the Associated Press reported.

Despite the security issues, CNN reports that the area remains a popular stop for Royal Caribbean cruise ships. The ships pull into Labadee, a property owned by the company and located along a peninsula that’s more than six hours away by car from Port-au-Prince.

Royal Caribbean has not canceled any stops to Labadee, CNN said, but said that it is continuing to monitor the situation.

If you are currently in Haiti or must travel there, the embassy offers the following tips:

• Avoid crowds.
• Avoid areas where violence, demonstrations, or disruptions are reported to be occurring.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Be prepared to shelter in place for an extended time.
• Avoid being outside after dark.
• Stay alert in areas frequented by foreign visitors.
• Review your personal security plans.
• Have travel documents up-to-date and easily accessible.
• Carry proper identification.