The US State Department announced it is arranging for planes to evacuate about 380 US citizens from the Diamond Princess cruise ship. An email message from the US Embassy in Tokay Japan said 'Please note that if you want to take the charter flights, we must receive your confirmation no later than 10:00 AM February 16th.'

'We would like to provide the below updates in response to questions that we have been receiving.'

1. the baggage limit on board the charter flights is a total of 70 pounds per person, plus one small carry-on that can fit under the seat in front of you. The aircraft does not have overhead bins.
2. if you or any of your family members taking the charter flight has special needs, please indicate this in your reply email. Likewise, if you have a service animal, please let us know immediately.
3. please be aware we will be sending additional information in the coming hours that will expand upon several issues addressed by our previous message regarding the planned repatriation operation.

'We greatly appreciate your continued patience and understanding as we prepare to move forward on this effort,' said this message.

Evacuees could be taken to Travis Air Force Base near Sacramento, Calif., or to Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, where they will undergo mandatory SARS-CoV-2 testing and quarantine.