BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Starbucks announced that it will temporarily change all of its stores to a "to go" model in the United States and Canada.

"In a letter to all U.S. partners today, Starbucks shared changes the company is implementing to encourage social distancing, in an effort to help contain the COVID-19 virus," a press release on their website states.

The "to go" model began Sunday and is expected to remain for at least two weeks, according to the release.

Stores will prohibit all seating in both the cafe and patio areas.

Customers are still allowed to place their orders at the counter, order at the drive thru, and use the "order ahead" feature in the company's app.

Further restrictions like closures may also be issued in areas with higher cases of COVID-19.