STORM LAKE, Iowa — The Storm Lake Police Department issued a community safety alert Sunday afternoon saying they were on scene with an armed barricaded individual.

According to the Storm Lake Police Department Facebook, at approximately 4:55 p.m. Storm Lake PD officers were at 3rd and Oneida Street dealing with an armed and barricaded individual.

According to SLPD, earlier in the day deputies were involved in a vehicle pursuit that ended at the current scene. Authorities say the individual was actively firing at responding officers.

Police encourage all residents in the vicinity to evacuate the area if it is safe to do so. If it is not safe, authorities say to shelter place, remain indoors, and stay away from windows and doors.

Police say the scene is active and volatile and people should avoid the area completely.

Officers say they are working to contain the situation and resolve it as safely as possible. Storm Lake police are working with Buena Vista County Sheriff’s Department, Buena Vista County Attorney’s Office, and the Iowa State Patrol to address the incident safely and effectively.

If you are in immediate danger authorities say to call 911.

Officers say an update on the situation will be provided as soon as it is safe to do so.