April 28, 1999
Web posted at: 2:37 a.m. EDT (0637 GMT)

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The State Department has issued an advisory for Americans traveling in Peru because of a general strike called for Wednesday.

"Although strike organizers have called for peaceful demonstrations, the potential exists for protests to become violent. The State Department strongly advises U.S. citizens to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place," the advisory says.

The strike was called by the General Confederation of Peruvian Workers to protest the government's economic and labor policies.

"Various participating groups may block the three major roads leading into Lima from the north, south and east. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid travel on these roads after 5:00 p.m. April 27 and during the course of the demonstrations," the State Department says.

Public transportation is expected to be disrupted in and around the capital, including routes to and from the airport.

In addition to the disruptions in Lima, the State Department also advised that transportation will be unavilable in the city of Cusco and that trains from Cusco to the ruins of Machu Picchu will not operate. Demonstrations may also occur in Arequipa, Iquitos and other cities.

The State Department advised Americans in Peru to monitor local news media for strike-related announcements.