Homeland Security Issues Targeted Rise In Threat Level To Orange -- Or High -- Only To Mass Transit Portion of Transportation Sector

In light of today’s attacks in London, the United States Government is raising the threat level from Code Yellow -- or Elevated -- to Code Orange -- or High -- targeted only to the mass transit portion of the transportation sector. This only includes regional and inter-city passenger rail, subways and metropolitan bus systems. We are also asking for increased vigilance in other transportation systems.

Currently, the United States has no specific, credible information suggesting an imminent attack in the United States. However, we know the tactics and methods of terrorists, as demonstrated by the horrific rail bombings in Madrid last year. The intent of al Qaeda and affiliated organizations to attack in Europe and the United States has been well documented and continues to be reflected in intelligence reporting.

Since early this morning, the City of Long Beach has been carefully monitoring the transit bombings in London. While there is no known threat in Long Beach, the City's Public Safety officials are working closely with Long Beach Transit, MTA, County, State and Federal officials. Extra patrols have been assigned throughout the City.

Residents are encouraged to continue their daily activities and to stay tuned to tv or radio news stations for updates. If there is any significant change in Long Beach, information will be distributed in the following ways: Sent to all tv, radio and print media. Announced on FM radio station KKJZ, 88.1. The same information will be sent to all media.

Posted on [City Hall's website] www.longbeach.gov

Posted on LBReport.com.

Aired on LBTV, Charter Communications Channel 8.

Sent to everyone who has signed up to receive the City's E-notify.
To sign up for e-notify, visit www.longbeach.gov/enotify/default.asp. Click on the New Subscriber link to choose which information to receive. All e-notify subscribers will receive local emergency notification.

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During this time it is important that we all remain vigilant, aware and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement officials. California's Office of Homeland Security is monitoring the situation closely and in direct communication with both federal and local officials. The state has offered mutual aid support to counties and cities to ensure all the resources needed to keep Californians safe are available.