US: The City of Miami Beach introduces state of emergency, curfew from 23:59 March 19-06:00 March 20

Event

Authorities in the City of Miami Beach, Florida, have declared a state of emergency (SOE) in response to two shootings and the presence of large and unruly crowds. Moreover, a curfew will be in effect from 23:59 March 19 until 06:00 March 20.

The following specific measures will be in effect as part of the directive:

• The curfew will apply to the area of Miami Beach bounded by 23rd Street and Dade Boulevard in the north, Government Cut in the south, Biscayne Bay in the west, and the Atlantic Ocean in the east.

• Businesses within the affected area must close before the curfew takes effect. Businesses must admit their last guests within a time frame that enables them to leave by 23:59.

• Hotels may continue to operate during curfew hours, but they must only serve hotel guests.

• Businesses other than hotels may continue to operate during curfew hours for delivery services only; carryout services are prohibited.

• The curfew does not apply to essential services, such as firefighters, police, and medical personnel or to persons traveling between their residences and places of employment.

• Residents must return to the city before 23:59 to avoid any potential traffic delays once the curfew has taken effect. Hotel guests entering the city after the curfew may be required to show proof of lodging.

Violators may be subject to arrest and criminal prosecution. For more details about the measures, click here.

A similar additional curfew will be in force March 23-27; city officials plan to meet on March 20 to determine what specific restrictions will be in effect during the second curfew.

Advice

Strictly comply with all curfew orders and heed any instructions from local law enforcement personnel. Plan accordingly for possible travel disruptions due to tighter security measures.