Officials at the US Department of State have issued a warning to citizens living abroad of an increased risk of violence following the death of Osama bin Laden.

US citizens are “strongly urged” to limit travel outside of their homes and hotels and avoid mass gatherings and demonstrations in areas of known unrest.

American diplomatic facilities around the world are on high alert, with the potential for violence expected to last for many months.

“These facilities may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture,” warned a Department of State notice.

“In those instances, US Embassies and Consulates will make every effort to provide emergency services to citizens.”

American citizens living abroad are urged to monitor local media reports, while also being encouraged to join the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP), to receive the latest travel updates.

President Barack Obama announced terrorist leader Osama bin Laden had been killed in Pakistan earlier this morning.

The news was greeted with jubilation in the capital Washington DC, with a crowd of many thousands gathering to celebrate outside the White House.