The crisis caused by a disputed presidential election has become more violent in recent days, with fighting occurring in the city of Fianaratsoa. As a result, the State Department has ordered all personnel to depart Fianaratsoa province and advises travelers to avoid the city and province at this time. Supporters of the two rivals to the presidency control different parts of the country, with the challenger in power in the capital of Antananarivo and the incumbent controlling the main seaport. A blockade has been set up to isolate the capital and supplies of medicine, food, and fuel are dwindling both in the capital and throughout the country. Air service has been curtailed.
