The U.S. Embassy in Tirana informs U.S. citizens that continued power outages are expected to occur throughout Albania over the next few days and possibly longer. According to media reports, power outages are expected to disrupt other public utilities as well, including water service. This could result in reduced water supplies in all affected areas.

In recent months, escalating protests, including road blockages, have occurred throughout the country as a result of the disruptions in electrical service. The anticipated public service outages are likely to lead to further protests and demonstrations.

U.S. citizens are reminded that all public gatherings and demonstrations have the potential to turn confrontational and escalate into violence.  You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.  Large public gatherings can affect all major incoming arteries to the city in which they occur.  Demonstrations in one city have the potential to lead to additional public rallies or demonstrations in other locations around the city and country.  Review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates.  Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.

We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Albania enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at www.Travel.State.Gov.  STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency.  If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution.  Read the Country Specific Information for Albania.  For additional information, refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” on the State Department’s website.

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date information on travel restrictions.  You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).  Follow us onTwitter and Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.

The U.S. Embassy Tirana is located at Rruga Elbasanit, Nr. 103 in Tirana, Albania and is open to the public by appointment on Monday through Thursday from 13:15 to 15:15.  You can schedule a non-emergency appointment by visiting our American Citizen Services website.  If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, the emergency number for the U.S. Embassy/Consulate is +355-(0)4-224-7285.