Lithuania issues possible drone-related air threat alert

LRT reported that a possible air threat alert, possibly linked to a drone, was issued in Vilnius, Trakai and Elektrėnai. The warning applies to Vilnius city and district, as well as the municipalities of Trakai and Elektrėnai.

The Fire Protection and Rescue Department said warning messages had been sent to residents’ mobile phones. The National Crisis Management Center said NATO air policing fighter jets had been scrambled in response to the threat.

Lithuanian Airports said Vilnius Airport operations and the airspace had been restricted because of the possible air threat. Passengers can check flight information at www.vno.lt or by calling +370 612 44442.

Under the yellow alert, residents are advised to remain calm and identify a safe place or shelter. Anyone who sees a suspicious object should not approach it and should call 112. Further information is available at www.LT72.lt.

A shelter is intended to provide short-term protection during an air threat, including from shelling, fragments, debris and blast waves. Suitable locations include designated shelters, basements, windowless interior rooms, underground car parks, tunnels and other enclosed spaces.

Residents are advised to avoid windows, balconies, lifts, open areas and rooms on the top floor of a building. When the civil protection signal “Air threat” is heard, they should move as quickly as possible to the nearest designated shelter or another safe place, such as a ditch, basement or underground pedestrian crossing.

The previous possible air threat warning was issued on Sunday. It was later determined that radar systems had detected a flock of birds.