Location: Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
Event: Earthquakes and seismic activity, including the release of harmful gases from fissures, continue as a result of the May 22 eruption of Mount Nyiragongo. Following the government of DRC’s advisory to stay away from affected “Red Zones”, the U.S. Embassy has advised U.S. government personnel in Goma to temporarily relocate.
U.S. citizens in Goma should make contingency plans to leave and consider departing if you feel unsafe. The U.S. government is not planning an evacuation and is limited in what consular services can be provided to U.S. citizens who remain in Goma.
Ferries are operating between Goma and Bukavu. The road to Sake remains open.
The border between Goma and Rwanda remains open. U.S. citizens who plan to cross and travel beyond Gisenyi should contact ACSKigali@state.gov for guidance on COVID testing requirements and U.S. Embassy assistance.
Goma and Bukavu Airports remain closed until further notice per DRC Civil Aviation authorities.
U.S. citizens are encouraged to report their whereabouts and requests for assistance to the U.S. Embassy at ACSKinshasa@state.gov if they have not already done so.
Actions to Take:
- Make contingency plans to leave that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
- Monitor local media and official government channels.
- Follow instructions of local authorities.
- Avoid all “Red Zones.”
- Do not go toward the volcano or areas affected by lava flows for photos or any reason.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, 310 Avenue des Aviateurs, Kinshasa/Gombe, +243 81-556-0151/0152 or +243-972-616-193 (after hours and weekends).
- ACSKinshasa@state.gov
- https://cd.usembassy.gov/
- State Department – Consular Affairs +1 888-407-4747 or +1 202-501-4444
- Democratic Republic of Congo Country Information
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.
- Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
