Latvia issues airspace threat alert for Balvi and Ludza

Latvia’s National Armed Forces (NBS) have declared an airspace threat in the municipalities of Balvi and Ludza, and residents have received a cell broadcast with instructions, LSM reported.

The NBS and NATO allies continuously monitor Latvian airspace, the armed forces said. They have strengthened air defence along the eastern border by sending additional units. The NBS has previously warned that foreign drones could enter or approach Latvian airspace while Russia’s aggression against Ukraine continues.

People in the affected area who are indoors should shelter where at least two walls separate them from the outside of the building. Drivers should assess the situation, continue to a safe place or leave their vehicle, move away from the road and seek nearby shelter.

If an explosion is heard, people should remain indoors and stay away from windows and doors. After an explosion, they should leave only when authorities issue instructions or at least 10 minutes have passed since the last explosion. Any movement should be slow, with the safety of the route assessed. Authorities also advise against posting photos or videos on social media, and say people should go to a basement or shelter only if instructed by the early warning system.

The NBS uses two levels of cell broadcast alerts: a yellow warning, which informs people of a possible threat but does not require immediate action, and an orange warning, which signals a detected threat and requires people to follow the instructions provided.