OTTAWA – The mass pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong have prompted Ottawa to warn travellers of the potential for sudden violence in the Chinese region.

The Department of Foreign Affairs updated its travel advice on security in Hong Kong, saying Canadians should avoid large public demonstrations “as violence could erupt and escalate quickly.”

The large-scale demonstrations that have taken place in several districts could spread to other parts of Hong Kong, the department said.

Over the weekend police used tear gas and pepper spray against tens of thousands of people occupying streets near the government headquarters.

Visitors should expect travel delays and disruptions in affected districts and plan alternate routes in case of blockages, the department said.