Police will step up patrols at key locations including Manchester Airport in the wake of this morning’s terrorist attacks in Brussels.
Top brass said there was no “specific threat” to Greater Manchester but that officers are on alert at threat level severe.
British officials are advising residents to remain aware.
Greater Manchester Police said it would step up patrols in crowded areas, “iconic locations” and transport hubs.
In response to this morning's events at Brussels Airport, the police presence has been increased in landside areas at Manchester Airport.
— Manchester Airport (@manairport) March 22, 2016
Suicide bombers are believed to have blown themselves up in a series of co-ordinated attacks in the Belgian capital at around 8am local time.
13 people are reported dead in two blasts at the country’s main Zavantem airport.
Belgium’s federal prosecutor Fredere Van Leeuw has this morning confirmed that the airport bombing was carried out by a suicide attacker.
Eyewitnesses told of hearing two large bangs with people were fleeing the terminal building while smoke rose into the air.
Injured casualties were reportedly being recovered from the scene on stretchers and luggage trolleys.
All public transport in #Brussel is closed. Metro and train stations closed. Stay where you are. #zaventem
— CrisisCenter Belgium (@CrisiscenterBE) March 22, 2016
All flights in and out of Brussels Airport have been stopped until further notice.
10 people are reported dead in an explosion at a metro station near EU buildings in the city suburb of Maelbeek.
All train, airport and metro services have been put on hold across the city.
Telephone networks are reportedly oversaturated and citizens are being advised to text or use social media to contact loved ones.
Belgium’s government has raised the nation’s terror threat to the highest level.
Greater Manchester Police Assistant Chief Constable John O’Hare said: “First and foremost, our thoughts are with all those who have been affected by the incidents in Brussels today.
“There is no specific threat in Greater Manchester following the events this morning but we remain at a threat level of severe.
“We are working closely with Manchester Airport to ensure that the appropriate response is in place and we have increased our patrols to support this.
“We will continue to review the situation and maintain our increased patrols in crowded areas, iconic locations and transport hubs.
“The events today in Brussels reinforce the need for us all to remain vigilant and report any concerns whilst continuing with normal daily life.”
Dr James Corum, terrorist expert from the University of Salford, said the attacks, which have not yet been claimed by a terrorist group, show “an impressive degree of planning and preparation”.
“This shows that ISIS and affiliates remain a serious threat to the security of Western nations,” he said.
“Unfortunately, the Western policy of pinprick bombing of ISIS is not likely to work to deter ISIS or even to limit ISIS’ capabilities.”
