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The United States government has expanded security alerts for American citizens traveling in Mexico, urging those in several states to shelter in place amid ongoing security operations following the reported death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The expanded travel advisories come as Mexican authorities respond to cartel activity, including road blockades and criminal activity, across a wide swath of the country.

The State Department’s updated alerts, issued February 22, 2026, advise U.S. Citizens in the states of Jalisco, Baja California, Quintana Roo, and portions of Guanajuato, Guerrero, Michoacán, Oaxaca, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas to seek shelter and limit unnecessary travel. The situation is particularly acute in popular tourist destinations like Puerto Vallarta, Cancún, and Tijuana, where disruptions to transportation and commercial activity are being reported.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico, all U.S. Government personnel in the Consulate General in Tijuana, as well as those in the states of Guerrero, Michoacán, and Quintana Roo, have been ordered to remain in their residences. Personnel at the Consulate General in Monterrey are restricted to the metropolitan area. The alerts underscore the escalating security concerns and the potential for further unrest in the wake of the reported takedown of El Mencho.

Although no airports have been officially closed, the U.S. Embassy warns that road blockades are impacting airline operations, leading to the cancellation of both domestic and international flights in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. Notably, all taxi and rideshare services have been suspended in Puerto Vallarta, and some businesses have temporarily ceased operations due to safety concerns. The situation is evolving rapidly, and travelers are urged to stay informed and exercise extreme caution.

Areas Under Alert

The U.S. Government’s security alert encompasses a broad geographical area. Specifically, the advisory covers the entire state of Jalisco, including the cities of Puerto Vallarta, Chapala, and Guadalajara. In Baja California, the alert applies to Tijuana, Tecate, and Ensenada. Quintana Roo, a major tourist destination, is also fully included, encompassing Cancún, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. Specific zones within Guanajuato, Guerrero, Michoacán, Oaxaca, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas are affected by the increased security measures and travel warnings.

U.S. Government Response and Support

The U.S. Government is actively monitoring the situation and providing assistance to American citizens in Mexico. The Embassy advises U.S. Nationals to remain vigilant, avoid areas with police activity, and follow the instructions of local authorities. In case of emergency, citizens are directed to dial 911. The State Department has not confirmed specific details regarding its role in the operation leading to El Mencho’s death, but reports indicate U.S. Intelligence played a role in the capture.

The U.S. Mission to Mexico released a statement on February 22, 2026, detailing the updated security measures and travel recommendations. The Embassy continues to emphasize the importance of situational awareness and adherence to local laws, and regulations.

Impact on Travel and Tourism

The security situation is expected to have a significant impact on travel and tourism in the affected regions. The cancellation of flights and the suspension of transportation services are already disrupting travel plans, and the heightened security measures may deter potential visitors. The economic consequences of these disruptions could be substantial, particularly for businesses that rely on tourism revenue. Noticias Claro reports that the alerts were issued following the death of El Mencho in a confrontation with the Mexican Army in Tapalpa.

The situation remains fluid, and travelers are advised to check with airlines and travel providers for the latest updates on flight schedules and transportation options. The U.S. Embassy recommends that American citizens reconsider non-essential travel to the affected areas and exercise extreme caution if travel is unavoidable.

As Mexican authorities continue security operations and assess the aftermath of El Mencho’s death, the situation is likely to remain volatile in the coming days and weeks. The U.S. Government will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates to its citizens as new information becomes available. The long-term implications of these events for security and stability in Mexico remain to be seen.

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