This could indicate that they expect the situation to escalate. “US Consulate near hostage cafe evacuated, security warning issued,” Reuters, December 14, 2014:
SYDNEY, Dec 15 (Reuters) – The United States has evacuated its Sydney Consulate, which is located near a cafe in the city where hostages are being held, a spokeswoman said on Monday.
The consulate has also issued an emergency warning to U.S. citizens in Sydney, urging them to “maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security”….