Threat Against MacDill Air Force Base Prompts New Security Level

Updated at 8:45 p.m.

TAMPA, FL — A shelter-in-place order was in effect for a time Wednesday morning after a threat was made at MacDill Air Force Base.

The threat, the second in two days at the base, has prompted authorities to implement a new security level at the base. After the incident, MacDill officials announced on social media that it elevated its security level to Force Protection Condition (FPCON) CHARLIE, WFLA reported.

According to Military.com, FPCON is a system used to assess and respond to terrorist threats against U.S. personnel and facilities. Levels range from Normal, when there's no significant threat, to Delta, the highest level, used when there's an immediate, specific danger.

As the threat level increases, security gets tighter, with measures such as restricted access, more patrols and thorough screening, the website said.

MacDill houses U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), which has a lead role in the war in the Middle East.

“We take all threats seriously and are taking appropriate measures to prioritize the safety and security of our installation,” MacDill said on social media.

According to policy, MacDill doesn’t release information about security measures implemented.

The threat came two days after a suspicious package was reported at the Air Force base.

More information about Wednesday’s threat will be released as it becomes available.

• Related: Suspicious Package Cleared At MacDill Air Force Base: FBI