A government official tells CNN that members of Congress were briefed by the White House, intelligence and other officials on Thursday that there is a "specific, credible but unconfirmed threat" to the U.S. homeland as the 9/11 anniversary approaches.
The source said New York and Washington were specifically mentioned as possible targets.
The members were told that officials are "strongly concerned" and "are not taking anything for granted" the source told CNN.
Additionally, a senior administration official with first-hand knowledge tells CNN National Security Contributor Fran Townsend that there is "specific, credible but unconfirmed threat information."
The official noted that al Qaeda has shown an interest in important dates and anniversaries.
"Weird things" raised questions about the intelligence but officials felt they should inform people because of the nearing 9/11 anniversary.