A wave of coordinated violence and ongoing security operations across multiple Mexican states has left Americans and tourists questioning their safety, prompting the U.S. to issue warnings and advise on what to do.
The security response, triggered by Sunday’s attacks following the death of cartel leader “El Mencho”, has led to roadblocks and coordinated police presence in many states including Baja California. As Mexican authorities scramble to restore order, the critical question for thousands of U.S. citizens remains: are they safe?
While early, unconfirmed reports fueled anxiety on social media, Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar Avila Olmeda moved to assure that the situation was under control. In an operational update, her government reported a swift crackdown, announcing 20 arrests and, crucially, zero injuries to civilians or security forces in the state.
Officials also declared that Baja California’s highways are now clear and operating normally, and that major roads and strategic areas remain under permanent security monitoring, urging citizens to remain calm and rely only on official channels.
U.S. Responds & Issues Warning
However, the U.S. Department of State has confirmed that the threat is not isolated to Baja California.
A security alert issued late Sunday warns of “ongoing security operations and related road blockages and criminal activity” in a number of regions, including the popular tourist destinations of Jalisco (Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara), Quintana Roo (Cancun, Tulum, Cozumel), as well as parts of Guanajuato, Guerrero, Michoacan, Oaxaca, Nuevo Leon, and Tamaulipas.
While no airports have officially closed, roadblocks have grounded both domestic and international flights in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta.
In addition, all taxis and ride-shares were immediately suspended at the time, but they are now operating again in several states, while businesses shuttered their doors, effectively trapping tourists in their hotels in Puerto Vallarta.
As a result, all U.S. government staff at the Consulate General in Tijuana and personnel in the states of Guerrero, Michoacan, and Quintana Roo have been ordered to shelter in place. Staff at the Consulate General in Monterrey are confined to the metropolitan area.
The U.S. Embassy advises citizens in the affected areas to seek shelter immediately, minimize movement, avoid law enforcement activity, and monitor local media.
“The U.S. Mission to Mexico has no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens,” the embassy stated on social media.
For Americans in Mexico needing consular assistance, the State Department has activated emergency lines. They can be reached at +1-202-501-4444 (from outside the U.S.) or +1-888-407-4747 (from the U.S. and Canada).
Situation in Tijuana After Sunday’s Attacks
Streets in Tijuana are quieter than usual, but officials assure the public that the city remains under control, with a heavy presence of military and police forces maintaining order.
The situation on the ground was verified firsthand, and thought there’s less traffic than usual, there’s a visible and active security operation across key areas of the city.
Local and federal authorities are also urging the public to remain calm and to avoid spreading unverified information.
Communication has been established and maintained between the National Guard, the Secretariat of Citizen Security of Baja California, and the Municipal Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection of Tijuana, ensuring coordinated efforts throughout the region.
Safety Recommendations for Residents and Visitors
Authorities have issued the following guidelines to ensure public safety:
- Seek shelter and minimize unnecessary movements. Remain in your residences or hotels.
- Avoid areas where law enforcement activity is present.
- Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
- Monitor local media for ongoing updates.
- Follow all directions from local authorities. In case of emergency, call 911 immediately.
- Avoid crowds and large gatherings.
- Keep family and friends informed of your location and well-being via phone, text, or social media.
