Austin, Texas – Texas officials are urging residents to heed federal travel warnings for six Mexican states, citing escalating violence and security operations.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Office of Gov. Greg Abbott, Texans currently in Mexico — or with family traveling there — should closely monitor alerts issued by the U.S. Department of State.
The State Department is advising U.S. citizens in Baja California, Jalisco, Quintana Roo, and parts of Guanajuato, Guerrero, Michoacán, Nuevo León and Tamaulipas to shelter in place until further notice due to road blockages and criminal activity.
Gov. Abbott said public safety remains a priority and encouraged Texans abroad to stay alert and remain in contact with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Officials emphasized that conditions can change rapidly.
Texans needing immediate assistance can contact the U.S. Department of State at 1-202-501-4444 from outside the U.S., or 1-888-407-4747 from within the U.S. and Canada. The Texas Fusion Center can be reached at 1-844-927-0521.
State officials also recommend enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time embassy alerts and make it easier for federal authorities to assist in an emergency.
Additional guidance includes avoiding high-risk areas, monitoring local media, following instructions from law enforcement and maintaining regular contact with family members.
The advisory may affect college students, business travelers and families with upcoming spring travel plans.
Texas officials said they will continue coordinating with federal partners as the situation develops.
