Parisians Use Hashtag #PorteOuverte, “Open Door”, for Those Seeking Shelter

In the wake of a series of attacks on Paris, its citizens have taken to Twitter to help those stuck in the city as the result of pandemonium.

French president Francois Hollande has called the attacks the deadliest in France since World War II. Those offering said they would provide their address to those interested through direct messages.

Several Metro lines have been closed in the city, leaving many unable to find transport. “Don’t stay outside!” one account tweeted. A few offered places of worship as well.

The #PorteOuverte hashtag has seen people tweeting their location, or a place where they will be welcome to spend the night and get off the streets as a state of emergency was declared.

Up to 100 people are understood to be held hostage at the venue where Eagles of Death Metal were due to play to a big crowd.

The incident unfolded at about 9pm tonight when a Kalashnikov-wielding gunman is thought to have gone on the rampage in the French capital. A restaurant near the 10th Arrondissement of the city was reported the site of heavy shootings and three explosions were heard near the Stade de France north of the city.

The post Parisians use #PorteOuverte to offer each other shelter after attacks appeared first on PBS NewsHour.