Georgia: Emergency crews responding to fire at the Ambassador Hotel in Tbilisi during the evening of March 31

Event

Emergency crews are responding to a major fire at the Ambassador Hotel in Tbilisi during the evening of March 31. The cause of the remains unclear; guests and patrons have been evacuated from the hotel. Additional evacuations are possible in the immediate vicinity if the fire spreads to nearby buildings. There have as yet been no reports of casualties.

Heightened security and localized transport disruptions will likely continue well into the evening of March 31. Authorities may restrict access to nearby roads to facilitate the movement of emergency vehicles.

Advice

Avoid the area until authorities extinguish the blaze and give the all-clear. Seek alternative routes and allow additional travel time to nearby destinations. Consider remaining indoors if smoke is heavy, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water. Heed all official instructions including evacuation orders.