US: Heightened security measures ahead of New Year’s Eve celebrations in New York City December 31

Event

The New York Police Department has announced heightened security measures ahead of New Year's Eve celebrations in New York City's Times Square, where more than one million people are expected to gather on the evening of Tuesday, December 31, to ring in the new year. More than one thousand police officers will be deployed during the event. Participants will gather along Broadway and Seventh avenue, from 43rd street to Central Park, and will pass through security screenings before being allowed to enter the area. Backpacks, large bags, umbrellas, and alcoholic beverages are banned.

All traffic to Times Square will be suspended beginning at 04:00 (local time) on Tuesday. From 11:00 on Tuesday, crosstown streets from 38th to 56th streets, between Sixth and Eighth avenues will be closed. Authorities have advised that individuals in New York City on Tuesday use public transportation to travel in the city.

A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions, such as road closures and public transport delays, are to be expected.  

Advice

Individuals in New York City are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate a heightened security presence and transportation disruptions, report any suspicious objects or behavior, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.