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Is it safe to go there? The U.S. travel advisory system, explained

If you’re planning an international trip, here’s how to use the State Department’s country-by-country guide to minimize your risk of encountering crime, violence, or civil unrest.

On October 19, the U.S. Department of State issued a rare advisory that Americans overseas “exercise increased caution” due to heightened tensions and chances of terrorism around the world, spurred by the Israel-Hamas war. It’s part of a system of travel warnings that’s been around in some form since 1978, designed to help citizens assess how safe a destination might be at a given time.

The current version of the system, which launched in 2018, gives fluid rankings from Level 1 (exercise normal precautions) to Level 4 (do not travel), indicating how risky countries (and in some cases, regions) are for Americans to visit. Rankings are based on factors such as crime rates, civil unrest, and the threat of terrorism. They are meant to give “clear, timely, and reliable information about every country in the world so they can make informed travel decisions,” says a State Department spokesperson.

Not surprisingly, on October 14, the State Department moved Israel and the West Bank to Level 3 (reconsider travel) and Gaza to Level 4.

Here’s how the advisories work and how to use them.

What is a travel advisory?

The U.S. State Department inaugurated the travel advisory system in 1978, initially aiming warnings at airlines and travel companies. The system was scrutinized after the 1988 bombing of a Pan Am flight from London to New York , which exploded over Lockerbie, Scotland , killing all 259 passengers and crew plus 11 people on the ground.

Investigations found U.S. authorities had been aware of a credible threat to a Pan Am flight but hadn’t informed the public. In response, the media and consular offices began issuing travel warnings. In 2018 the U.S. introduced its current four-tier advisory system. There are near-identical versions in Canada , Australia , and New Zealand .

To determine rankings, the State Department considers a nation’s political volatility, crime trends, medical care standards, and the threat of kidnappings or terrorism. (Politics also ends up playing an unspoken role.) Some countries, such as Russia , receive a Level 4 ranking partly because the U.S. government may have limited ability to assist citizens there. Others rise to Level 4 due to a crisis, such as the military coup that recently rocked Niger .

When the travel advisory system relaunched in 2018, it also included state-by-state evaluations for Mexico , which draws more than 11 million American travelers a year. “Some Mexican states are quite safe for U.S. tourists, while others are riskier due to narco-trafficking violence,” says Ryan Larsen , executive director of the Institute for Global Engagement at Western Washington University. Yucatán and Campeche states are currently at Level 1, while six other Mexican states are at Level 4, including Sinaloa.

( Solo female travelers share tips for staying safe on the road .)

Epidemics and natural disasters also can prompt a travel advisory number to rise. Americans may be prompted to reconsider visiting a country recovering from a tsunami or major wildfires, since their presence could hinder rehabilitation efforts. This occurred after the February 2023 earthquakes in Turkey . Such advisories can remain in place for weeks or months.

The strictest-ever advisories came in April 2021, amid the COVID-19 pandemic , says Larsen, who did a thesis on U.S. travel warnings. At that time, about 80 percent of the world’s countries were at Level 4.

At press time, about 70 percent of the world’s countries were rated Level 1 or Level 2 by the State Department, indicating they’re relatively safe. There are currently 21 countries at Level 3 and 21 at Level 4.

How to use travel advisories

Before booking an international trip, consult the State Department website to see where your destination ranks. While Level 1 and 2 countries are considered relatively safe, you should still register with the U.S. Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) . This lets Americans overseas use their smartphone to receive travel advisory updates and alerts about emerging dangers in their destination (protests, extreme weather).

Level 3 countries are considered more dangerous for foreign visitors, who should “reconsider travel,” according to the State Department. If you are headed to a Level 3 country, which currently includes Pakistan and Colombia , do wider research on its safety and on the places you’ll visit there, advises Jun Wen , a professor of tourism at Australia’s Edith Cowan University. For instance, while some remote areas in the Colombian Amazon still suffer from drug-related violence, cities such as Cartagena and Medellín are relatively safe. Going on a fully guided group or individual tour can also help you navigate destinations where political unrest or crime might impact your safety.

Travelers should study not only the advisories provided by their own country, but also by the U.S., United Kingdom, and Australia to broaden their understanding of the risks in Level 3 countries, Wen says. As for Level 4 countries, that “Do Not Travel” advice couldn’t be any clearer.

Other countries also issue warnings to their citizens about visiting the U.S. Canada recently informed its LGBTQ travelers they may be affected by laws in certain U.S. states. Australia, meanwhile, cautions its citizens visiting the U.S. to be wary of higher crime rates and gun violence, and even to learn safety strategies for active shooter scenarios.

People who visit countries with Level 3 or Level 4 travel advisories don’t just risk their safety. They also may have travel insurance complications, says Linchi Kwok , tourism management professor at California State Polytechnic University Pomona.

( How travel insurance can—and can’t—help when your plans change .)

They must pay much higher premiums, and their insurance can be invalidated if the advisory for their destination is elevated. “Medical coverage can be minimal, too, particularly if the travel advisory is put up against a disease or an outbreak,” says Kwok. “I encourage Americans to think twice before they travel to Level 3 and especially Level 4 destinations.”

Warnings and their impact on tourism

Travel advisories can be biased, Larsen argues. His research found that, while the U.S. didn’t often overstate the risk of travel to countries with which it had poor relations, it did often understate the danger of visiting nations that were its close allies. Elevating a travel advisory can stoke diplomatic tensions between two countries. Once a country is raised to Level 3 or 4, many tourists will avoid visiting, and many American universities won’t let students join study abroad programs.

The economic ramifications of a level change impact individual businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies. For instance, J 2 adventures , a Jewish-focused tour company, saw most of its fall group trips to Israel canceled after the start of the Israel-Hamas war (and the higher advisory level), says cofounder Guy Millo. “This is not just because of the violence on the ground, but because of practical considerations like accessibility of commercial airline flights,” he says. “Most tourists from North America and places around the globe simply couldn’t get here even if they wanted to.”

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Protect Your Trip »

What You Need to Know About Travel Warnings and Alerts

Should you reconsider your travel plans in light of the latest advisories?

Traveler using a cellphone at the airport

Getty Images

In some countries, including many places across Europe with no current or imminent threat, it's best to keep your plans and take necessary precautions rather than canceling or postponing your trip.

You've read the latest travel warnings and alerts and have decided it's best to rearrange your itinerary and take the destination you're interested in off your bucket list, at least for now. Are you making a smart choice, or are you basing your decision off of incomplete information?

The U.S. State Department issues travel warnings for a variety of reasons, including an unstable political climate, terrorist attacks, a civil war or recurring instances of violence and crime. While some destinations have travel warnings in place for extended periods of time, others feature warnings until the environment changes, to help Americans understand the risks involved with traveling to these destinations.

After reading such advisories, you might be hesitant to visit any place that has a travel warning issued by the State Department. But when you take into account that there are currently 37 different travel warnings and six travel alerts in effect, and realize that some destinations pose more dangerous conditions than others, you might want to reconsider putting your travel plans into motion.

[See: 10 Things Every Traveler Must Know Before Going to Brazil This Summer .]

What You Need to Know About Travel Warnings

Some warnings are easy to understand. North Korea , Afghanistan and Syria, for example, are a few places with repressive dictatorships and active warzones, meaning they are generally not the most welcoming vacation destinations for U.S. citizens. But what about countries that welcome millions of American travelers each year? Some of these countries offer some of the finest all-inclusive resorts in the world, modern infrastructures and first-world comforts. If you think you won't find any travel warning or alerts associated with those places, think again.

Mexico has had an ongoing travel warning for years that seemingly encompasses the entire country. Yet, if you pinpoint the particular advisory in place, you'd find that the warning is only tied to some very specific areas in certain regions of the country. After all, Mexico is a big place.

[See: 10 Common Pieces of Travel Advice You Should Never Follow .]

Fortunately, vigilant travelers seem to understand that many destinations across Mexico are safe. Despite the broad travel warning, word of mouth from past travelers to Mexico, as well as feedback from American travel agents on their clients' visits, have resulted in millions of Americans traveling to the country each year.

The same logic can be applied to many countries across Europe. The European continent is home to hundreds of millions of people and the European Union counts 28 member countries across a continent encompassing 3.9 million square miles. And Europe is an immense tapestry of different nationalities, cultures and histories, yet the U.S. State Department issued a sweeping travel alert for the entire continent of Europe in the wake of the Brussels attacks. While a travel alert doesn't carry the same weight as a travel warning, a sizable part of the continent is included in the same short-term alert even though some destinations are considered much safer than others.

What You Need to Know About Travel Alerts

The State Department issues short-term travel alerts for a variety of reasons. Some instances for issuing an alert can include a health alert, a belief or evidence that there is a higher chance of terrorist attacks or an unstable election season, with a higher risk of disturbances, demonstrations or attacks. While such advisories are a short-term measure, it's still important to assess the specifc risk associated with the destinations you want to visit. Take Europe, for example. Why cancel or postpone a trip Slovenia because of a situation in Belgium?

[See: 9 Ways to Travel Better .]

The Bottom Line

Instead of delaying or halting a trip altogether, evaluate the State Department's travel alerts and warnings for what they are: resourceful alerts and safety precautions. Heed them, acknowledge them, make informed choices and take necessary safety measures , but ultimately know that the world offers welcoming and safe places that broaden your cultural understanding and perspective and are worth seeing for yourself.

Tags: Travel , State Department , Travel Tips , Hotels and Resorts

About En Route

Practical advice on the art of traveling smarter with tips, tricks and intel from En Route's panel of experts.

Contributors have experience in areas ranging from family travel, adventure travel, experiential travel and budget travel to hotels, cruises and travel rewards and include Amy Whitley , Claire Volkman , Holly Johnson , Marsha Dubrow , Lyn Mettler , Sery Kim , Kyle McCarthy , Erica Lamberg , Jess Moss , Sheryl Nance-Nash , Sherry Laskin , Katie Jackson , Erin Gifford , Roger Sands , Steve Larese , Gwen Pratesi , Erin Block , Dave Parfitt , Kacey Mya , Kimberly Wilson , Susan Portnoy , Donna Tabbert Long and Kitty Bean Yancey .

Edited by Liz Weiss .

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Texas DPS to travelers: ‘We strongly urge anyone to avoid crossing into Mexico’

Tamaulipas on texas-mexico border is listed as ‘do not travel to’.

Rebecca Salinas , Digital Journalist

Associated Press

The Texas Department of Public Safety is warning people against traveling to Mexico amid heightened awareness about abductions and cartel violence.

DPS spokesperson Lt. Christopher Olivarez told CNN’s Erin Burnett on “Erin Burnett Out Front” that state authorities are “very concerned” following the deaths of two Americans near Matamoros earlier this month. See part of the interview in the video player above.

The Americans were among a group of four that traveled to Mexico via Brownsville for plastic surgery. Soon after entering Matamoros, the group was caught in a drug cartel shootout, and video showed them being hauled off in a truck. Two survivors were later found in a shack near the Gulf Coast.

In another case, three Texas women disappeared after crossing into Mexico to go to a flea market in the city of Montemorelos, Nuevo Leon.

Maritza Trinidad Perez Rios, 47; Marina Perez Rios, 48; and Dora Alicia Cervantes Saenz, 53, have not been seen since late February.

Olivarez said drug cartels present a dangerous situation for people crossing into border cities.

“Because of the increased violence and the fact that the Mexican drug cartels represent a significant threat to anyone who crosses into Mexico and just the sheer, you know, volatile nature of these, of these criminal organizations and the increased violence, that’s why we strongly urge anyone to avoid crossing into Mexico, especially at this time,” he said.

Mexico’s president, however, has disputed the claim that his country is dangerous, saying that it is safer than the U.S.

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said the U.S. travel warnings were the result of a conspiracy by conservative politicians and U.S. media outlets to smear his administration.

“There is no problem in traveling safely in Mexico,” he said.

Mexico’s nationwide homicide rate is about 28 per 100,000 inhabitants, according to the Associated Press . By comparison, the U.S. homicide rate is around 7 per 100,000.

The U.S. Department of State is also asking American citizens to be cautious when visiting various states and cities in Mexico during spring break and Easter travel seasons.

Tamaulipas, the Mexican state where the group of four Americans traveled, is one of six states under the “Do Not Travel To” advisory due to crime and kidnapping.

For years the city of Matamoros has been the base for Gulf drug cartel members, who often fight among rival gangs or among themselves. Thousands of people have been reported missing in that state amid the violence.

Tamaulipas is the only Texas-Mexico border state listed under the “Do Not Travel To” distinction, though Chihuahua is listed under “Reconsider Travel.”

Federal authorities have these distinctions in place to limit travel for U.S. government employees and to give guidance to U.S. citizens.

See below for a list of Mexico travel advisories.

Do not travel to:

Colima state due to crime and kidnapping.
Guerrero state due to crime.
Michoacan state due to crime and kidnapping.
Sinaloa state due to crime and kidnapping
Tamaulipas state due to crime and kidnapping.
Zacatecas state due to crime and kidnapping.

Reconsider travel to:

Baja California state due to crime and kidnapping.
Chihuahua state due to crime and kidnapping.
Durango state due to crime.
Guanajuato state due to crime and kidnapping.
Jalisco state due to crime and kidnapping.
Morelos state due to crime.
Sonora state due to crime and kidnapping.

Exercise increased caution when traveling to:

Aguascalientes state due to crime.
Baja California Sur state due to crime.
Chiapas state due to crime.
Coahuila state due to crime.
Hidalgo state due to crime.
Mexico City due to crime.
Mexico State due to crime.
Nayarit state due to crime.
Nuevo Leon state due to crime and kidnapping.
Oaxaca state due to crime.
Puebla state due to crime and kidnapping.
Queretaro state due to crime.
Quintana Roo state due to crime and kidnapping.
San Luis Potosi state due to crime and kidnapping.
Tabasco state due to crime.
Tlaxcala state due to crime.
Veracruz state due to crime.

Exercise normal precautions when traveling to:

Campeche state
Yucatan state

Click here for more guidelines on traveling to Mexico.

Mexican president says his country safer than United States
3 women missing in Mexico after crossing from Texas on trip

About the Authors

Rebecca salinas.

Rebecca Salinas is an award-winning digital journalist who joined KSAT in 2019. She reports on a variety of topics for KSAT 12 News.

Coronavirus Updates

The coronavirus crisis, u.s. issues more than 115 'do not travel' advisories, citing risks from covid-19.

Bill Chappell

Global travel continues to be risky because of the coronavirus. Earlier this year, passengers from Taiwan wear protective gear as they arrive at France's Charles de Gaulle Airport, and just this week, the U.S. issued over 100 new travel advisories. Francois Mori/AP hide caption

The U.S. State Department has vastly expanded its "Do Not Travel list," issuing new Level 4 advisories for more than 115 countries and territories this week. The agency cites "ongoing risks due to the COVID-19 pandemic."

The U.S. Do Not Travel list now includes Canada, Mexico, Germany and the U.K. A Level 3 warning is in place for a smaller group of nations, such as China, Australia and Iceland. Japan is also on the Level 3 list, despite a worrying rise in new coronavirus cases there.

Just a week ago, only 33 countries were on the U.S. Do Not Travel list, according to a cached version of the advisory site . But the State Department warned on Monday that the list would soon include roughly 80% of the world's countries.

More than 150 highest-level travel advisories are in effect — more closely reflecting guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the State Department says.

The CDC's own travel health notices also use a four-tier warning system. For many countries newly added to the State Department's Level 4 list, the CDC cites "a very high level of COVID-19."

As of last week, Brazil and Russia were two of the only large COVID-19 global hotspots on the State Department's most serious warning list. They're now joined by India and virtually all of Europe — places that have seen alarming spikes in new cases.

Bhutan is the only international destination designated as Level 1 — "exercise normal precautions" — on the State Department's travel advisory list.

Sixteen countries are categorized as Level 2 — meaning travelers should exercise increased caution when visiting places such as Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, Belize and Grenada.

Many of the new or updated Do Not Travel notices cite high levels of coronavirus transmission in the relevant country. But the State Department says it also takes other factors into account, from the availability of coronavirus testing to any travel restrictions the countries might have against U.S. citizens.

In roughly 35 countries or destinations, the CDC says, details about the level of COVID-19 risk are unknown. The health agency urges Americans to avoid traveling to those spots, which include Afghanistan, Nicaragua and the Solomon Islands.

Regardless of a particular country's advisory status, the State Department wants all U.S. citizens to reconsider any travel abroad.

"The COVID-19 pandemic continues to pose unprecedented risks to travelers," the agency said.

More than 3 million people have died from COVID-19 worldwide, according to the World Health Organization . Nearly 144 million coronavirus cases have been reported globally, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University .

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Jamaica Travel Advisory: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

Government warnings sound dire but shouldn’t deter you from traveling.

an aerial view of a beach in Montego Bay, Jamaica

Four days before I flew from Washington, D.C., to Mali, I received a list of 20 pre-trip suggestions from the U.S. Department of State. Among the recommendations: Draft a will, discuss your funeral wishes with your family, designate a hostage negotiator and leave DNA samples with your medical provider.

My stomach knotted when I read the advice. Mali is on the State Department’s highest-level don’t-go-there list, along with such volatile nations as Haiti and Iraq. But until then I hadn’t been worried. I’d be working in Mali with a nonprofit, One Global Village, that has served there for years. I knew the organization’s leaders and their emphasis on safety. And while the Islamic State group was terrorizing Mali’s north, we would be in the relatively safer south, working in a remote rural village.

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I survived the 2020 journey without being kidnapped, robbed or shot, a feat I’ve managed on trips to numerous locations — from Guatemala to the West Bank — that provoke stern warnings from the State Department.

In the wake of the Oct. 7 attack on Israel, the State Department didn’t initially issue an updated travel advisory for Israel. It now says not to travel to Gaza because of terrorism and armed conflict and to reconsider travel to Israel and the West Bank because of terrorism and civil unrest. The State Department says that if you decide to travel to the region, you should check alerts on the website of the U.S. embassy in Israel for the latest information.

Popular destinations, including Mexico and Jamaica, have travel advisories. In Mexico, the department breaks down the advisories by state, with 13 states receiving “do not travel” and “reconsider travel” warnings. Kidnappings in Mexico in early 2023 raised questions about the safety of traveling to the country.

At the end of January, the State Department issued a level 3 travel advisory to “reconsider travel” to Jamaica, citing crime and medical services. The agency said “violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common.” The advisory added that sexual assaults also happen at all-inclusive resorts. As for medical services, the advisory said response times and quality of care are not as they are in the U.S. “We strongly encourage you to obtain traveler’s insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, before traveling to Jamaica,” the advisory said. The advisory also listed some neighborhoods and parishes as “do not travel.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also issues advisories. On Dec. 8, the CDC issued a health advisory about an outbreak of tick-borne Rocky Mountain spotted fever among people who have recently traveled to or live in the city of Tecate, in Baja California, Mexico. Five people have been diagnosed since July, and three people have died, the health agency said.

According to the CDC, Rocky Mountain spotted fever is a “severe, rapidly progressive, and often deadly disease” that is contracted from the bite of infected ticks. In this outbreak, the five patients developed the disease within two weeks of travel to Tecate. The patients were hospitalized in Southern California. The agency says the antibiotic doxycycline is the best course of treatment.

Here are some insights on understanding advisories and staying safe.

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a graphic showing the U.S. Department of State's advisory levels

Deciphering the alerts

The State Department issues travel advisories for every country and assigns one of four grades:

Level 1: Exercise normal precautions.
Level 2: Exercise increased caution
Level 3: Reconsider travel.
Level 4: Do not travel.

Most countries are Level 1 or 2. With Level 3, the State Department suggests that you avoid travel due to serious safety risks. With Level 4, you face “a greater likelihood of life-threatening risks,” and the government may be unable to provide assistance.

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The State Department also issues warnings for events ranging from political protests to hurricanes. In late June, for example, the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Paris issued a security alert when riots erupted after a police shooting in a nearby suburb. The U.S. Embassy in Dublin released a similar alert in July after a 57-year-old American was assaulted by teenagers.

Warnings and advisories may sound dire, but they shouldn’t necessarily deter you from traveling. If you based trip decisions solely on the government’s cautious advisories, you’d never leave home. In its advisory for famously safe, Level 1 Japan, the State Department warns of sexual assaults and criminals who spike victims’ drinks. For Australia, another Level 1 country, the department mentions bar brawls, violent demonstrations, pickpockets and purse snatchers.

Travel warnings are often broad, but reality is more nuanced. Take Dublin. The July alert was issued after an attack against a single American (though the embassy also mentioned “a number of recent incidents reported in Irish media”). But Dublin is considered safe by most European travel experts.

Want to put security concerns in perspective? Consider foreign governments’ advisories about the United States. The United Kingdom warns of terrorist attacks, gang assaults on tourists’ vehicles and violent protests. Multiple countries, including Canada and Germany, caution citizens about gun violence and mass shootings.

“It always surprises me when my clients bring up advisories … because we’re in New Orleans, where the crime is so bad here,” says Lauren Cardinale, a travel adviser and owner of Travel Design Co., citing carjackings and shootings. She mentions a Spanish colleague who visited New Orleans. The woman’s mother was terrified about her daughter’s safety.

“You have to take these advisories with a grain of salt,” says Cardinale. “No matter where you are, you have to be safe and be aware of your surroundings. ... You run risks anywhere you go.”

What about Mexico?

The State Department’s Level 3 advisories include popular tourist destinations like Egypt, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, but for many travelers, Mexico evokes the most concern. The department issues travel advisories for individual states in Mexico, and six are on its “do not travel” list because of kidnappings and other crimes.

The concerns are real. In February 2023, coastal Colima was named the most violent city in the world by Mexico’s Citizen Council for Public Security and Criminal Justice. But discouraging travel to entire states is like avoiding California because of open-air drug markets in San Francisco.

“As soon as the press reports that something happened in Mexico, people fear the entire country,” says Laura Holcomb, a travel adviser and owner of Memories and Moments Travel in Chardon, Ohio. In early 2023, Holcomb traveled to Puerto Morelos, Cancún and Playa del Carmen, areas where the State Department advises travelers to “exercise increased caution.” Holcomb felt safe, partly because she stays in resorts that emphasize security.

Her advice to clients: Don’t leave the resort. And if you do leave, book transportation from a reputable company, a concierge or a travel adviser.

How to protect yourself

Every country and city has its safe spots and its dangerous neighborhoods. If you’re worried about security, follow this safety list:

Register for STEP. Before leaving home, enroll in the federal government’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program . The U.S. embassy or consulate will know your itinerary, lodging and contact information. You’ll also receive updates about safety conditions.

Buy travel insurance. Most comprehensive travel insurance policies cover a variety of calamities, though you may have to add emergency evacuation as part of your coverage. Trip cancellation coverage should protect you from unforeseen events that prevent you from traveling, such as the wildfires that hit Maui in August. For further peace of mind, Holcomb recommends buying a cancel-for-any-reason policy when you book your trip. With this type of policy, you can cancel a trip for any reason at any time, unlike some policies that don’t allow cancellations 24 hours before departure. Also ask your health insurer if it covers international medical bills. Many don’t, so you may need coverage as part of your travel insurance.

Consult the CDC. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers its own four-level advisory system , issues notices for countries experiencing disease outbreaks and other issues, and offers advice on getting health care while traveling.

Hire a travel adviser. The Maui wildfires showed why travel advisers can be valuable. Once the disaster struck, travel advisers helped with evacuations and rescheduled trips for Maui-bound clients. In an emergency, travel advisers have direct access to travel providers and tourism boards — and receive information before it filters to consumers and the media.

Check your travel provider’s website. Most airlines, including Alaska, American, JetBlue and Southwest, post travel advisory information online, which provides instructions and covers information such as change fees. The same is true with cruise lines, from Celebrity to Royal Caribbean, and resorts.

Listen to locals. Before One Global Village president Abigail Hayo travels to Mali, she consults with Malians about safety issues. Don’t have connections in a city? Contact hotel concierges, tour companies, tourist bureaus or embassies to learn about local conditions.

Use common sense. Simple steps can help you stay safe, including:

Try to blend in. Dress like a local instead of a tourist and don’t carry wads of cash. Hayo never wears “fancy jewelry” while traveling.
Travel in groups. Don’t wander an unfamiliar city alone at night.
Book lodging in busy, well-lit parts of a city, Cardinale suggests.
Carry your passport in a travel wallet or money belt, not in your backpack’s outer pocket.
Keep a photo of your passport on your phone and leave a copy at home with an emergency contact, Holcomb recommends. Do the same with your credit card.
Be aware of your surroundings. Staring at your phone, wearing earbuds, drinking too much — they can make you less alert.

Editor's note: This article was originally published on August 25, 2023. It has been updated to reflect new information.

Ken Budd has written for National Geographic Traveler , Travel+Leisure , The Washington Post Magazine and many more. He is the author of a memoir, The Voluntourist.

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Traveling Abroad? US Warns Against These Countries

U.S. travel advisories are issued in four levels: exercise normal precautions, exercise increased caution, reconsider travel, and do not travel.

By NBC New York Staff • Published May 9, 2023 • Updated on May 10, 2023 at 10:53 am

What to know.

The U.S. Department of State issues travel advisory levels for more than 200 countries -- continually updating them.

Drug trafficking, crime, terrorist threats and civil uprisings are some of the factors behind the travel advisory levels given to the countries on the list.

Are you planning a trip abroad? Do you wonder if your destination is safe?

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With the recent deaths of a 9-year-old New York City boy who was shot and killed less than an hour after arriving in the Dominican Republic for a spring break family trip and the discovery of a missing man from Indiana who was found dead in a clandestine burial pit in Mexico after a traffic accident led to his alleged murder are just some of the recent headlines that has caused pause for some people to travel abroad.

However, the safest way to travel, is to be aware ahead of time of where one is going and the precautions one should take.

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As of Tuesday, May 9, there are 18 countries that were issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory by the State Department. Level 4 is the highest level in the advisory system due to the likelihood that travelers may encounter life-threatening risks.

"This is the highest advisory level due to greater likelihood of life-threatening risks. During an emergency, the U.S. government may have very limited ability to provide assistance. The Department of State advises that U.S. citizens not travel to the country or to leave as soon as it is safe to do so. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory. Conditions in any country may change at any time," according to the State Department .

The countries under the Level 4 advisory (and the dates when there listings were updated) are:

Meanwhile, 29 other countries are at Level 3: Reconsider Travel. This level, according to the State Department, encourages travelers to avoid certain places due to safety and security risks.

When it comes to this level, the State Department says: "Avoid travel due to serious risks to safety and security. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory. Conditions in any country may change at any time."

The countries under a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory (and the dates when their listings were updated) are:

The rest of the countries on the list are at a Level 2 and Level 1.

According to the State Department, a country with a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory warns travelers to aware of their surroundings and also to be cognizant that conditions could change at any time.

"Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory. Conditions in any country may change at any time," the description for Level 2 reads.

Meanwhile, places with a Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions advisory have the lowest advisory level when it comes to security risk.

"This is the lowest advisory level for safety and security risk. There is some risk in any international travel. Conditions in other countries may differ from those in the United States and may change at any time, the State Department's website says when it comes to Level 1.

However, there are two countries on the list, as of Tuesday, that have a travel advisory that is out of the ordinary: Israel, the West Bank and Gaza as well as Mexico. These two countries have an "Other" advisory level and were given that level within the past year in October and March.

In the instance of Israel, the West Bank and Gaza, its travel advisory reads , that there are terrorist groups, lone-wolf terrorists and other extremists plotting possible attacks, with some areas having more risk than others.

The State Department warns travelers not to travel to "Gaza due to terrorism, civil unrest, and armed conflict." It also warns travelers to "exercise increased caution when traveling to: Israel due to terrorism and civil unrest" as well as "West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest."

Mexico's travel advisory warns of "violent crime -- such as homicide kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery," which according to the State Department is both widespread and common in the country.

Mexico's warning is broken down specifically by region, as follows, as outlined by the U.S. State Department :

Do Not Travel To:

Colima state due to crime and kidnapping .
Guerrero state due to crime .
Michoacan state due to crime and kidnapping .
Sinaloa state due to crime and kidnapping
Tamaulipas state due to crime and kidnapping.
Zacatecas state due to crime and kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

Baja California state due to crime and kidnapping .
Chihuahua state due to crime and kidnapping .
Durango state due to crime .
Guanajuato state due to crime and kidnapping .
Jalisco state due to crime and kidnapping .
Morelos state due to crime .
Sonora state due to crime and kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

Aguascalientes state due to crime .
Baja California Sur state due to crime .
Chiapas state due to crime .
Coahuila state due to crime .
Hidalgo state due to crime .
Mexico City due to crime .
Mexico State due to crime .
Nayarit state due to crime.
Nuevo Leon state due to crime and kidnapping .
Oaxaca state due to crime .
Puebla state due to crime and kidnapping .
Queretaro state due to crime .
Quintana Roo state due to crime and kidnapping .
San Luis Potosi state due to crime and kidnapping .
Tabasco state due to crime .
Tlaxcala stat e due to crime .
Veracruz state due to crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

Campeche state
Yucatan state

For additional information the countries listed, or those in Level 1 or 2, visit the U.S. Department of State's website, or click here.

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U.S. State Department warns to avoid parts of Mexico over ongoing violence, kidnappings

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The State Department is urging U.S. citizens to avoid travel to parts of Mexico over fears of kidnappings and other crime across multiple states, renewing warnings as tourists make travel plans for spring break season.

The department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs has issued multiple advisories in the last several weeks over the ongoing violence in Mexico. Cartel violence erupted in Culiacan in early January after authorities arrested Ovidio Guzmán , a leader of the Sinaloa drug cartel and son of imprisoned drug lord Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán.

A State Department spokesperson said the safety and security of U.S. citizens is the department’s highest priority, adding that officials are aiming to provide relevant information for people to make travel plans. Rather than issue a nationwide risk assessment for Mexico, the department provides a state-by-state summary .

State Department officials urged U.S. citizens to not travel to the states of Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas over crime concerns.

A Red Cross worker closes the door of an ambulance carrying two Americans found alive after their abduction in Mexico last week, in Matamoros, Tuesday, March 7, 2023. Two of four Americans whose abduction in Mexico was captured in a video that showed them caught in a cartel shootout have been found dead, officials said Tuesday. The two surviving Americans were taken to the border near Brownsville, Texas, in a convoy of Mexican ambulances and SUVs. (AP Photo)

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The six states have received the strongest warning from the Bureau of Consular Affairs, which cited shootings between gangs that injured or killed bystanders, and kidnappings in which tourists and lawful permanent residents or “green card” holders were targeted.

The Bureau of Consular Affairs issued its last countrywide advisory on Mexico in October and subsequent advisories on individual Mexican states in recent weeks. Officials advise U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to Baja California, Chihuahua, Durango, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos and Sonora due to crime and kidnapping.

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U.S. officials also ask tourists to exercise increased caution when traveling in 17 Mexican states, including Quintana Roo, which is home to the popular tourist destination Cancun. There have been disputes in the state between Uber and Cabify drivers and taxi unions, which have turned violent and injured U.S. tourists, according to the U.S. Embassy and consulates in Mexico.

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Indiana interstates will likely be packed on eclipse day. How to prepare and what to expect

With the total solar eclipse approaching and Indiana being prime real estate for sky-watching, police are anticipating packed roads and heavy traffic conditions.

“We've likened it to having the Indy 500 in the Evansville area, Bloomington area, here in Indy and then in the northeast,” said Capt. Ron Galaviz of Indiana State Police.

State Police anticipate traffic will snarl before, during and after the event, which will occur April 8. Galaviz said the police agency will have “all hands on deck” when it comes to staffing troopers on the state’s highway and particularly its interstate system.

More: Road-tripping to Indy for the eclipse? Here are some destinations to check out on the way

At the same time, motorists are asked to prepare ahead of time for traffic jams as thousands descend into the state. Filling up vehicles with gas ahead of time is advised as well as having food and water supplies in anticipation of long waits.

"Exercise patience," Galaviz said.

Police: Don't stop on the interstate to watch the eclipse

During the event, state police are also urging drivers not to stop, park, or watch the solar activity on the interstates.

“In Indiana, it’s against the law to stop, stand or park along the side of the interstate. Let alone, on the interstate itself in one of the lanes of travel,” Galaviz said.

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To gauge road congestion during and after the eclipse, drivers can visit 511in.org which shares the latest traffic patterns across the state and possibly find alternative routes.

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Baltimore ‘hero’ police officers stopped traffic passing over Francis Scott Key Bridge within 90 seconds of warning

The Key Bridge was hit by a ship and collapsed

It was the middle of the night when a dispatcher’s 12-second warning crackled over the radio: A massive cargo ship had lost its steering capabilities and was heading toward the Francis Scott Key Bridge .

Within about 90 seconds, police officers responded that they had managed to stop vehicle traffic over the Baltimore bridge in both directions. One said he was about to drive onto the bridge to alert a construction crew.

But it was too late. Powerless and laden with huge containers, the vessel smashed into a support pillar.

“The whole bridge just fell down,” a frantic officer said. “Start, start whoever, everybody … the whole bridge just collapsed.”

When the shipping vessel Dali slammed into the pillar around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday, it caused a long span of the bridge, a major link in the region’s transport networks, to crumple into the Patapsco River. The loss of the bridge is expected to snarl commuter traffic and disrupt a vital shipping port .

At least eight people went into the water. Two survived but the other six, part of a construction crew that had been filling potholes on the bridge, were missing and presumed dead. A search for their bodies was to resume Wednesday morning.

Among the missing were people from Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico, according to diplomats from those countries. The Honduran man was identified as Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandova.

Federal and state officials said the crash appeared to be an accident. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating, and ship traffic entering and leaving the Port of Baltimore was suspended indefinitely.

Capt. Michael Burns Jr. of the Maritime Center for Responsible Energy said bringing a ship into or out of ports in restricted waters with limited room to maneuver is “one of the most technically challenging and demanding things that we do.”

“So there really is few things that are scarier than a loss of power in restricted waters,” he said. And when a ship loses propulsion and steering, “then it’s really at the mercy of the wind and the current.”

Video showed the ship moving at what Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said was about 9 mph (15 kph) toward the 1.6-mile (2.6-kilometer) bridge. Traffic was still moving across the span, and some vehicles appeared to escape with only seconds to spare. The crash caused the span to break and fall into the water within seconds, and jagged remnants were left jutting up from the water in daylight.

Police said there is no evidence anyone went into the water other than the workers, though they had not discounted the possibility.

A senior executive at the company that employed the crew, Brawner Builders, said they were working in the middle of the bridge when it fell.

“This was so completely unforeseen,” said Jeffrey Pritzker, the company’s executive vice president. “We don’t know what else to say. We take such great pride in safety, and we have cones and signs and lights and barriers and flaggers.”

Jesus Campos, who has worked on the bridge for Brawner Builders and knows members of the crew, said he was told they were on a break and some were sitting in their trucks.

“I know that a month ago, I was there, and I know what it feels like when the trailers pass,” Campos said. “Imagine knowing that is falling. It is so hard. One would not know what to do.”

Father Ako Walker, a Catholic priest at Sacred Heart of Jesus, said outside a vigil that he spent time with the families of the missing workers as they waited for news of their loved ones.

“You can see the pain etched on their faces,” Walker said.

Rescuers pulled two people out of the water. One person was treated at a hospital and discharged hours later.

The crash happened long before the busy morning commute on the bridge, which was used by 12 million vehicles last year.

From 1960 to 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses worldwide due to ship or barge collisions, according to the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure.

Tuesday’s collapse is sure to create a logistical headache along the East Coast for months, if not longer, shutting down shipping traffic at the Port of Baltimore, a major hub.

Paul Wiedefeld, the state’s transportation secretary, said vessel traffic in and out of the port would be suspended until further notice, though the facility was still open to trucks.

“Losing this bridge will devastate the entire area, as well as the entire East Coast,” state Sen. Johnny Ray Salling said.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said it was too soon to give a time frame for clearing the channel, which is about 50 feet (15 meters) deep, while President Joe Biden said he planned to travel to Baltimore soon and expects the federal government to pay the entire cost of rebuilding.

Synergy Marine Group, which manages the ship, said the impact happened while it was under the control of one or more pilots, who are local specialists who help guide vessels safely in and out of ports. Synergy said in a statement Wednesday that one crew member was treated at a hospital for a minor injury.

The ship is owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd., and Danish shipping giant Maersk said it had chartered the vessel.

The 985-foot-long (300-meter-long) Dali was headed from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka, and flying under a Singapore flag, according to data from Marine Traffic.

The vessel also passed foreign port state inspections in June and September 2023. In the June 2023 inspection, a faulty monitor gauge for fuel pressure was rectified before the vessel departed the port, Singapore’s port authority said in a statement Wednesday.

Donald Heinbuch, a retired chief with Baltimore’s fire department, said he was startled awake by a deep rumbling that shook his house for several seconds and “felt like an earthquake.”

He drove to the river and couldn’t believe what he saw: “The ship was there, and the bridge was in the water, like it was blown up.”

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott called the incident “an unthinkable tragedy.” Gov. Moore said that “all of our hearts are broken for the victims and their families,” and he also hailed first responders for their quick response.

“Literally by being able to stop cars from coming over the bridge, these people are heroes,” Moore said. “They saved lives last night.”

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Eclipse 2024 Countdown: What to know about Vermont traffic on April 8

Pretty soon, itty-bitty Vermont is going to feel much more crowded.

Leading up to the April 8 solar eclipse, nearly a quarter million visitors are expected to swarm the Green Mountain State due to its position within the “path of totality.”

To avoid the heavy traffic and overall chaos of the day, the Vermont Agency of Transportation advises Vermonters to “hunker down” and forego driving on April 8 if they can help it. Many northern Vermont schools and some businesses, for instance, are taking heed and closing for the eclipse.

For residents who still plan to brave the roads, however, here’s what you should know about traffic conditions on April 8.

What might Vermont traffic look like on April 8?

In preparation for the eclipse, the Vermont Agency of Transportation compiled a list of “assumptions” about the motor vehicle traffic expected on April 8.

Although some sources anticipate higher numbers, the agency said it foresees a maximum of 160,000 visitors (or roughly 60,000 additional cars) for the eclipse, with inbound traffic to trickle in over the course of two to three days prior to the event. Most outbound traffic will likely depart immediately once the eclipse concludes, though more than 14,000 vehicles may spend the night.

However, Vermont may end up seeing fewer visitors due to anticipated cloudy and rainy weather and because April 8 falls on a Monday.

According to the agency, most visitors will likely enter Vermont from the south, particularly from Boston and Worcester in Massachusetts and Hartford, Springfield, New Haven and Bridgeport in Connecticut.

Vermonters should also anticipate fellow drivers pulling off to the side of the road to watch the eclipse.

Which Vermont roads should I avoid?

Based on the above assumptions, the roads with the highest estimated traffic volumes likely include:

US 4 in Mendon, Bridgewater, and Woodstock
VT 103 in Ludlow, Clarendon, and Cavendish
VT 100 in Waterbury
US 5 in Brattleboro
I-89 from Exit 10 to U.S. Route 2 and the Champlain Islands
US 7 in Shelburne, Ferrisburgh, and Pittsford
Williston I-89 exit ramps, VT 2A, US 2
Burlington main local roads
VT 15 in Essex
US 2 and VT 117 in Richmond
I-91 in Rockingham
VT 9 in Brattleboro and Wilmington
I-89 in Waterbury, Middlesex, Montpelier, and Hartford

However, it should be noted that local and feeder roads may also experience delays and congestion should drivers begin to detour from the main roadways.

For more information about April 8 in Vermont, including traffic and weather, visit the state’s eclipse page .

How is Burlington handling traffic and safety during the eclipse?

Hotel reservations and airport data indicate that Vermont’s biggest city may welcome as many as 35,000 to 50,000 tourists for the eclipse, according to Obscura BTV .

How does Burlington Police plan to maintain traffic flow and safety?

According to last month’s Burlington Police Chief’s Report, there will be up to 40 police officers on duty. This is the same amount as the July 3 Fireworks celebration last year, minus the five additional officers Burlington police hired from adjacent agencies who will be serving in their own communities during the eclipse.

Eight police officers and five community service officers will manage shuttle bus lanes and street closures. One supervisor and four officers will handle non-event-related calls. All other officers are charged with providing security at eclipse events and manning the department’s Emergency Response Vehicle.

However, despite police preparations, Burlington residents should still expect to see traffic delays and potential emergency vehicle delays at minimum and “complete gridlock” at worst, depending on crowd size.

Local police say should crowds exceed 50,000 people, traffic will likely be unmanageable everywhere in the city regardless of their efforts. If crowds surpass 75,000 people, Burlington is likely to become gridlocked, and Interstate 89 and “major arteries” like Route 7 and Route 2 may shut down – making emergency response unguaranteed.

For information on road closures , parking, bus schedules, FAQs and more in Burlington, visit https://loveburlington.org/obscura-burlington/ .

Megan Stewart is a government accountability reporter for the Burlington Free Press. Contact her at [email protected].

How safe are cruise stops? Travel advisories are only one marker for destinations

After two Carnival Cruise Line passengers were allegedly sexually assaulted in the Bahamas amid travel warnings, some travelers may be wondering whether they should visit ports with active advisories.

The guests, two women from Kentucky, said they were drugged and raped while ashore on the island of Grand Bahama. Bahamas police arrested two men last week on sexual assault charges.

The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a security alert in late January warning of recent murders in Nassau, and the State Department has had a Level 2 advisory in place for the popular island nation since 2018, urging travelers to “exercise increased caution” due to crime. But those kinds of warnings don’t necessarily mean it’s unsafe to visit.

“It all comes down to personal risk assessment,” said Jared Feldman, owner of travel agency Jafeldma Travel. “It's not intended for you to abandon your travel altogether, either. It's just what it is: It's an advisory. Be aware.”

Is it safe to go on cruises to places with travel advisories?

Cruise operators monitor for potential safety issues well before departure. “Security is top of mind for cruise lines, and they're constantly looking at areas of concern,” whether due to terrorism or other threats, Feldman said.

Feldman said cruise lines also generally distribute warnings about safety matters to guests through onboard announcements, for example, or in notes in the daily planners they distribute to passenger cabins.

Nicholas Gerson, an attorney for the Carnival guests Amber Shearer and Dongayla Dobson, told USA TODAY last week that his clients did not know about the Bahamas warning at the time and were "not aware of any warnings given by Carnival."

Carnival spokesperson Matt Lupoli said in an email on Tuesday that the line’s “shipboard team routinely shares guidance with guests on keeping safe while ashore,” though he did not comment specifically on Gerson’s statement.

That’s not just a voluntary move, according to John H. (Jack) Hickey, a maritime trial attorney in Miami. Cruise lines are legally obligated to warn guests of dangers “about which the cruise line knew or should have known.

“They have a duty to their passengers under the maritime common law to advise the passengers of these risks,” he said. That includes any hazards during port stops, which Hickey said are “part and parcel” of a cruise.

However, travel advisories are “fluid.” They may change depending on geopolitical developments, the environment and other factors, according to Carrie Pasquarello, CEO and co-founder of Global Secure Resources Inc., a company focused on risk mitigation and threat assessment planning. They may also be more nuanced than a single number can show.

Mexico, for example, has varied warning levels for different states. “There's a lot of different risks in Mexico, and yet, so many people are traveling to Mexico and having excellent, successful excursions and vacations,” Pasquarello said.

The Bahamas, for its part, has also pushed back on the crime alert shared by the U.S. Embassy, with the Office of the Prime Minister noting that its Level 2 rating did not change. The Bahamas has been listed at Level 2 since the start of the travel advisory system in 2018 (it was temporarily raised to Level 3 in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic).

The office said in a statement that the incidents described in the crime alert – warning of nearly murders in Nassau since the beginning of the year – “do not reflect general safety in the Bahamas, a country of 16 tourism destinations, and many more islands.”

“Our law enforcement agencies are taking rigorous steps to maintain our well-earned reputation, including an enhanced police presence and additional police resources (including facial recognition CCTV surveillance technology) and training,” the statement continued.

Do cruise lines cancel stops because of travel advisories?

Feldman said cruise lines “try not to disrupt the passenger experience as much as possible” and are unlikely to alter course because of advisories like those currently in place for the Bahamas and Jamaica .

“They will only change the itinerary if there's a real significant, sincere threat to passenger safety, or it's just not safe for the guests to disembark from the ship, or it's not safe to sail in certain waters,” he said. Many cruise lines have recently canceled or rerouted sailings away from the Red Sea amid continued attacks on commercial and naval vessels.

“The safety of our guests and crew is our priority and as part of our regular security procedures, we routinely monitor the local destinations our ships visit and keep in close communication with government and law enforcement officials,” Lupoli, the Carnival spokesperson, said. If changes are needed, he added, the line “will react quickly.”

The contracts passengers agree to when they book a cruise allow operators to change ports as necessary without owing them compensation (though they may offer it as a goodwill gesture).

Tips for staying safe in port on cruises

There are ways cruise passengers can help protect themselves during their trip.

Pasquarello recommended researching destinations before booking. “We want to make sure that our travelers are being proactive, prepared, looking at those risk indicators along with those level advisories,” she said.

Pasquarello also likes to review advisories from other countries, such as Canada or Australia, for a given destination to get greater context. “Each of these countries have their own risk rating levels and look at things differently, and so I want to see the full view of the location that I'm going to,” she added.

Cruise ship crime: What to know if you're sexually assaulted on a cruise

Travelers can also sign up for the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , which can give them safety information about their destination, help the U.S. Embassy reach them in case of emergency and more.

Many health insurance plans don’t cover travelers while they are abroad. Pasquarello urged travelers to call their provider to check and look into travel insurance if their coverage is lacking.

When going ashore, Feldman recommended booking an organized shore excursion. “Try to travel with other people, and not necessarily be on your own,” he said, and recommended following other general safety practices, like exploring during the day when possible and being mindful of your surroundings. Cruise passengers also always have the option of staying on board during a stop.

Pasquarello noted that there are risks and crime in the U.S. and on board cruise ships as well, and travelers should make their assessments about their well-being. “We have to be our best safety advocate,” she said.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Solar eclipse

2024 solar eclipse guide: What to know
Where to buy eclipse glasses
Monday's weather forecast
Maps: Totality path, peak times

States issue travel warnings about eclipse-related traffic and tips for visitors

On Monday, a total solar eclipse will occur, and multiple states in the United States with be in the path of totality.

According to Forbes , up to 3.7 million people are expected to travel for the event.

If you’re considering a trip to the path of totality, consider these travel warnings from leaders of the affected states.

Airport travel warnings

In a press release , the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said it’s expecting 40,000 to 50,000 flights per day over the next few days, due to a surge in travel related to spring break and the eclipse.

“Travelers flying along the eclipse path may encounter limited parking and potential delays at airports due to the high volume of aircraft and drones attempting to witness the total solar eclipse,” the press release said.

According to the United States Department of Transportation (DOT), states that can see some of their airports affected by eclipse travel include:

New Hampshire.

Pennsylvania.

This is incredible. From @Jamie_Lane where AirBnBs are fully booked next week. pic.twitter.com/ITKZJaGfY8 — Mike Simonsen 🐉 (@mikesimonsen) April 4, 2024

States with travel warnings

Traffic is expected to be heavy and “potentially deadly” in and near the path of totality, according to USA Today .

The situation will be especially hazardous right when the eclipse ends, since most eclipse travelers plan to head home right away, the article said.

Take care if you’re visiting one of these states:

The Arkansas Department of Public Safety hosted training exercises earlier this year to prepare public safety officers for the potential chaos of the eclipse event.

“Several scenarios, such as severe weather, transportation and traffic management issues, and potential fuel shortages, may impact Arkansans during the solar eclipse,” a Feb. 15 press release said.

Arkansas’ DOT has issued warnings about wearing proper eye protection.

For a map of expected high traffic areas, visit the state’s 2024 Solar Eclipse Traffic Management Plan .

Illinois’ DOT has offered these travel tips:

Anticipate significant traffic congestion on all routes leading in and out of the region immediately following the eclipse.

Have your car headlights on during the eclipse.

Don’t take photos, videos or wear eclipse glasses while driving.

Exit the roadway and park in a safe area before viewing the eclipse.

Travel conditions the day of the event can be found on Getting Around Illinois .

Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb declared a statewide disaster emergency as part of his effort to prepare the state of an influx of hundreds of thousands of visitors.

Visit Indiana offers these tips for residents of and visitors to the state:

Have a full tank of gas.

Bring a couple of gallons of water.

Bring shelf-stable snacks.

Use correct eclipse glasses.

Bring backup auto fluids.

Bring a phone and car charger.

Bring a physical or paper map.

Bring cash.

Bring extra medication.

Pack a first-aid kit.

Keep a basic toolkit on hand.

Have jumper cables in the car.

Have a headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries.

Keep a spare tire or flat tire kit.

Pack emergency flares ore reflectors.

Per WCLU Radio , the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has advised travelers to:

Stay informed about congested roadways.

Be patient while driving.

Carry essentials such as water, snacks, first-aid kits and sunscreen.

Carpool or use public transportation.

Respect local communities.

According to Maine.gov , Maine Gov. Janet Mills and other state leaders have worked together to make a plan for the eclipse. Their recommendations for residents and visitors include:

Wearing eclipse glasses during the eclipse but not while you’re driving.

Planning out travel routes in advance.

Bringing safety-related supplies: Paper maps, emergency car kit and water.

Having a full tank of gas.

Avoiding dirt roads.

Missouri’s Department of Transportation offers that following highway safety tips:

Do not stop on any major road or shoulder.

Exit the highway before taking a picture of the eclipse. Make sure to stop before taking a photo.

Turn on headlights when the sky goes dark.

Watch out for pedestrians on roads.

Prepare for congestion on roads.

Avoid travel during the eclipse if possible.

Traffic conditions for Missouri can be found on the Department of Transportation’s website .

New Hampshire

New Hampshire leaders are expecting heavy and potentially dangerous traffic in Coos County on April 8.

The state is encouraging visitors to stay on state highways since “some secondary highways and local roads were not designed to handle large volumes of traffic, and springtime in the north country can bring frost heaves and very soft shoulders,” according to a travel advisory .

In a YouTube video the commissioner of the New York State Department of Health, James McDonald, shared these tips for eclipse travelers:

Use certified eclipse glasses.

Be prepared for the outdoors: New York weather may include snow, rain or sun, sometimes all in the same day.

Allow for extra time if traveling because many other individuals will be traveling, too.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed an executive order as part of his effort to prepare the state for the solar eclipse.

Among other things, the order instructs law enforcement agencies across the state to be ready to assist local law enforcement and respond to emergencies.

In a video published by the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security , Gov. Kevin Stitt and state authorities discussed the state’s plan for eclipse traffic.

Oklahoma will be:

Suspending oversized load traffic Sunday and Monday for specific roadways to guard against traffic congestion.

Having the Oklahoma National Guard prepared to deploy to southeast Oklahoma.

Reminding travelers to not stop on the roadway during the eclipse and to watch out for pedestrians.

Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has a safety page on its website with warnings for visitors.

Among other things, it encourages travelers to plan ahead and put down their phone while driving.

According to Fox 4 , Dallas officials have taken the following steps to promote safety:

Dallas fire rescue is working on staff and staging plans for potential increases in emergencies.

The Dallas police chief says all time off for the police force is canceled to make sure they have people on duty.

There will be no trash pickup on Monday.

The office of emergency management is ready if severe weather is an issue.

Texas’ Department of Transportation shared these safety tips for the solar eclipse:

Expect heavy traffic.

Watch out for pedestrians.

Keep headlights on, even in the daylight.

Keep your eyes on the road if you’re in the car during the eclipse.

Park away from traffic to view the eclipse.

The Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles has issued a commercial vehicle traffic advisory for April 8. The state urges drivers to consider alternative routes to avoid traffic.

Solar eclipse triggers onslaught of conspiracy theories across social media

Let’s break down some of the common conspiracy theories around the April 8 solar eclipse.

Total solar eclipse guide 2024: When it is, where the path of totality is, how to watch it safely and more

Everything you need to know about the April 8 celestial event.

'It is a life-changing event': From $1,000 one-way flights to surging Airbnb rentals, travelers are gearing up for the solar eclipse

With 30 million Americans in the path of totality, travelers are adding billions to the economy in order to witness the April 8 event.

Yankees push back start time for game vs. Marlins due to solar eclipse

The Guardians also moved back the start time for their home opener on Monday.

What the total solar eclipse could mean for your zodiac sign: An astrologer breaks it down

An astrologist weighs in on the 2024 solar eclipse.

Your April guide to a happier, healthier you: spring COVID boosters, total solar eclipse and the benefits of a rainy walk (really!)

A look ahead at living your best life this April, from the total solar eclipse to the rainy day activity you should try.

Fake solar eclipse glasses can damage your eyes — don't be duped, these options are the real deal

Want to check out the upcoming astronomical action? Protecting your vision is a must.

With all eyes on the big men, UConn vs. Purdue NCAA title game could come down to perimeter play

Both Purdue and UConn are anchored by dominant big men, so the backcourts could be the determining factor in Monday's title game.

Caitlin Clark's decorated career won't have championship ending, but her legacy was already secure

Clark broke all kinds of records and took Iowa further than it'd ever been before. Her impact on the game, though, extends well beyond the lines — regardless of how her college career ended.

Michigan Panthers kicker Jake Bates makes second 60-plus yard field goal in two weeks

Michigan Panthers kicker Jake Bates hit a 62-yard field goal one week after nailing a 64-yarder. The UFL star is attracting NFL attention as a result.

One of these concept lunar vehicles could join NASA’s Artemis V astronauts on the moon

NASA announced this week that it’s chosen Intuitive Machines, Lunar Outpost and Venturi Astrolab to develop their lunar terrain vehicles (LTV) in a feasibility study over the next year. One will eventually be chosen for a demonstration mission.

March Madness: Iowa star Caitlin Clark breaks NCAA tournament scoring record in title game vs. South Carolina

Caitlin Clark put up 18 points in the first quarter on Sunday afternoon, which marked another championship game record.

Target set to launch new paid membership program this week

Under the new paid Target Circle 360 membership, shoppers will be able to benefit from same-day delivery and other perks starting April 7.

The best Amazon deals to shop this weekend: Save up to 75% on laptops, vacuums, Apple products and more

From $89 AirPods to a $29 Dirt Devil stick vac, these are spring sales worth scooping up.

Fintech representation in YC's Demo Days is definitely shrinking

This week, we’re looking at just how many fintech companies made it into Y Combinator’s Winter 2024 cohort, how much funding slid in the first quarter, and more! Y Combinator held demo days for its Winter Cohort this week. Of the 260 companies in the latest cohort, nearly 30 of them, or 8%, were classified as fintech.

The 5 best-selling dash cams on Amazon

In 2024, there's no reason to be driving around without a dash cam. Here are the 5 best-selling options on Amazon right now.

Apple’s second-generation AirPods Pro are back on sale for $190

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Savor spring with these tummy-tucking capris, down to $28: 'No muffin top'

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Three Countries Issue Travel Warnings About Visiting The U.S.

WASHINGTON, July 10 (Reuters) - Three countries have warned their citizens to stay on guard when visiting U.S. cities rocked by sometimes violent protests that erupted after a string of police shootings of black Americans.

The United States regularly issues travel warnings urging Americans to either avoid or exercise caution in countries marred by violence or political instability.

Now America is the focus of concern by foreign governments in the Middle East and Caribbean as protesters marched in U.S. cities throughout the weekend after police killed black men in Louisiana and Minnesota.

The protests have led to numerous arrests, scuffles and injuries in confrontations between police and demonstrators. America was also tense after a lone black gunman on Thursday shot dead five police officers during a protest in Dallas.

The U.S. embassy of Bahrain, a tiny Middle Eastern island nation, on Saturday urged citizens via twitter to “be cautious of protests or crowded areas occurring around the U.S.”

Bahamas, a Caribbean nation where most people identify as being of African heritage, on Friday warned its people to be careful when visiting U.S. cities rocked by “shootings of young black males by police officers.”

“In particular young males are asked to exercise extreme caution in affected cities in their interactions with the police. Do not be confrontational and cooperate,” Bahamas foreign ministry said in a travel advisory.

The United Arab Emirates urged its students and other citizens in the United States to also be careful, using similar language the U.S. State Department employs when warning Americans about countries that have fallen victim to attacks by extremists.

“Please be aware of immediate surroundings and avoid crowded places when possible,” the UAE embassy said in a statement that urged people to stay away from any U.S. demonstrations. “Exercise particular caution during large festivals or events, be alert and stay safe.”

In July alone, the United States has issued travel warnings for Bangladesh, Venezuela, Iraq and Mali.

On Sunday, some tourists in New York’s bustling Times Square said they were nervous about the tension and recent violence in America. “I don’t like to be in crowded places anymore,” said Eleanor Fairbrother, who was visiting from Ireland.

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St. Paul Protesters Rally To Demand Justice

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What to expect on highways to, from Bloomington, Indiana, for April 8 solar eclipse

Ask any emergency services expert how to plan for the eclipse, and they’ll likely use one phrase: “Arrive early, leave late.”

Bloomington, where Indiana State Police are expecting up to 300,000 extra people to come on April 8, is no different.

North America’s last total solar eclipse in August 2017 proved to be a traffic nightmare for rural and mid-sized communities in the path of totality, as thousands of people leaving at once after the eclipse resulted in hours of traffic gridlock along both highways and rural roads in Kentucky and Wyoming.

Bloomington may be on Interstate 69, but it’s surrounded by smaller, rural highways and has dense blocks downtown that are particularly prone to build-ups during rush hours. If you’re a newcomer to the area, or if you’re just wondering what to expect traffic wise on the big day, here’s what we know from those who’ve been planning ahead.

What towns in totality learned during the 2017 eclipse

The 2017 solar eclipse offered a glimpse into what traffic congestion and emergency planning might look like for the upcoming total solar eclipse. Emergency planners in towns along the path of totality knew the eclipse would bring an influx of tourism and traffic snarls, but they didn’t know what exactly to expect.

In Kentucky, traffic was a slow trickle leading up to the eclipse , but after totality, a massive influx of drivers got on the highway all at once, resulting in significant backups. The Pennyrile Parkway near Hopkinsville had a 10-mile backup and saw 23,927 vehicles on it in one day – a 60% increase from average, according to the Kentucky Department of Transportation (KDOT) . A visitor coming to Kentucky from Michigan spent 16 hours traveling home , more than six hours longer than the regular route.

Wyoming saw record-breaking traffic on the afternoon of the solar eclipse, with more than 536,000 vehicles on the road – a number that nearly rivals Wyoming's population. Traffic between Casper and Denver was so backed up that a normally four-hour drive lengthened to 10 hours or more.

Congestion was particularly concentrated on rural roads and two-lane highways, infrastructure that also surrounds many entrances to Bloomington and surrounding regions.

Traffic jams like these spelled out a clear need for motorists to space out their departure following the eclipse and is a key reason safety officials and organizations, including the Indiana Department of Transportation, are encouraging visitors to stay late after the eclipse in the cities they’re visiting.

‘Take your patience’: Officials warn about possible backup

Emergency planners in Monroe County and Indiana State Police urge travelers to “take your patience with you” if you come to Bloomington for the eclipse.

“The biggest thing that we as state police are recommending is that folks take their time,” said Kevin Getz, ISP’s Bloomington office public information officer.

The major roads into Bloomington are I-69 and Indiana state roads 37, 45 and 46, some of which have as few as two lanes at times. A portion of I-69 between Indianapolis and Bloomington also remains under construction , limiting the number of available lanes.

Getz recommends travelers have a set viewing location in mind and plan to arrive well before the eclipse, as traffic may be backed up coming into town that morning. He also urges people to fill up on gas (or electric charges for EVs) to be prepared if their car is stuck in traffic.

Jamie Niebel, director of Monroe County Emergency Management , strongly encourages travelers to wait for a few hours – or even overnight, if possible – before leaving Bloomington after the eclipse.

“Traffic is going to last quite some time, because it’s not just Monroe County that’s involved. It’s a good chunk of Indiana, and actually, a good chunk of the Midwest,” Niebel said. “If you can do an evening exodus, that’d probably be best.”

Niebel says traffic jams will likely start on highways and interstates after the eclipse, and eventually result in congestion throughout the city.

“I think as people start to examine their map, they’ll try to find alternative ways to go,” Niebel said. “And then that’s when we’ll see the rest of the city and the rest of the county feel the wrath.”

She says some degree of congestion is inevitable given the influx of tourists, and encourages people to have a “laid back, Hoosier mentality” as they travel after the eclipse. She also urges drivers to be especially careful around downtown, where many are expected to be traveling on foot.

“We expect many people to be foregoing their cars and sticking to foot traffic, which is a good thing, but that comes with extra obstacles,” Niebel said.

Getz encouraged people to drive slowly and carefully in areas with high volumes of foot traffic throughout the day, especially around gathering spaces like Switchyard Park and the Hoosier Cosmic Celebration at the Indiana Memorial Stadium.

“Always keep a view of pedestrians,” Getz said. “We want everyone to have a good experience at this once-in-a-lifetime event. But we also want people to be safe.”

Monroe County, Indiana University offer free text alerts

Visitors and residents can opt into free text alerts for eclipse-related incidents that may impact public safety.

Starting Friday, April 5, anyone in Monroe County who would like to receive these messages can text “MoCoEclipse” to 226787 to opt in.

Everyone who opts in to the system will be automatically removed on Wednesday, April 10.

Reach Brian Rosenzweig at [email protected].

International

Total solar eclipse

Israel-Gaza news

Rare 4.8 magnitude quake rattles Northeast

By Elise Hammond , Leinz Vales and Matt Meyer , CNN

4.0 magnitude aftershock recorded in New Jersey, USGS says

From CNN's Brandon Miller

An aftershock of a preliminary magnitude 4.0 has struck just southwest of Gladstone, New Jersey, according to the United States Geological Survey .

It happened at about 5:59 p.m. ET, USGS said.

The aftershock comes nearly 8 hours after the main shock of 4.8 magnitude this morning. There have been at least 10 aftershocks, though most were in the 1.8 to 2.2 magnitude range.

No injuries or major damage in Northeast after morning quake in New Jersey. What to know to get caught up

From CNN staff

Residents and police gather outside of Newark, New Jersey, homes that were structurally damaged and had to be evacuated after an earthquake Friday.

A 4.8 magnitude earthquake rattled buildings across parts of the US Northeast on Friday morning, according to the US Geological Survey, with tremors felt from Washington, DC to New York City and to Maine.

It was the third-largest earthquake recorded in the area in the last five decades and the strongest in New Jersey i n more than 240 years , the USGS said. But with authorities reporting little or no damage, and minimal travel disruptions, people soon resumed their everyday lives.

Here's what to know:

New Jersey: Gov. Phil Murphy said there are limited reports of damage and "little to no injuries" in the state. The USGS recorded at least six aftershocks in the immediate area of the initial earthquake. In an area more than 30 miles from the epicenter, three neighboring homes in Newark were evacuated after residents reported structural damage, according to Newark Public Safety Director Fritz Fragé.
New York: Gov. Kathy Hochul said there were no "life-threatening situations" after the earthquake and no reports of damaged buildings . There was one report of a gas line leak, but so far there's no “major” infrastructure impact, state officials said . New York City Mayor Eric Adams also said there have not been any reports of injuries and told people to " go about their normal day ." Additionally, all aspects of the New York City transit system were operating safely, said Metropolitan Transport Authority CEO Janno Lieber.
Philadelphia: The Philadelphia Police Department received "over 200 calls" from 911 "in a very short period of 20 minutes," following the earthquake, according to Commissioner Kevin J. Bethel. But, there were no injuries reported in the city, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker said.
Connecticut: State officials did not report any significant damage. Emergency management officials said their operations center was partially activated as agencies inspected key infrastructure points.
Travel: Runways at the three main airports servicing the New York City area were inspected and cleared, according to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Port Authority also said there were no operational or physical impacts to the bridges and tunnels. Amtrak said its trains were r unning at normal speeds after restrictions were put in place for track inspections.
Widespread impact: The shaking was felt by millions of people across hundreds of miles of the Northeast — a phenomenon made more likely by a few factors, including the geology of the region itself, according to the USGS. Rocks in the eastern US are much older, denser and harder, making them more efficient conduits of the seismic energy released by an earthquake, allowing it to travel in a more potent form over longer distances, the USGS says.

Amtrak trains resume running at normal speeds

From CNN's Pete Muntean

Amtrak trains are back to operating at normal speeds after an earthquake in New Jersey on Friday, the company said.

It said it started inspecting its tracks shortly after 11 a.m. ET, and put speed restrictions in place throughout the region. Amtrak said it has now completed those inspections.

“As of 3:30 PM ET, All inspections have been completed and service has been restored to normal speed. Residual delays should be expected,” Amtrak posted on X.

At least 6 aftershocks recorded following New Jersey earthquake, USGS reports

From CNN’s Samantha Beech, Brandon Miller and Taylor Ward

There have been at least six aftershocks in the hours following the New Jersey earthquake Friday morning, according to United States Geological Survey data.

The initial earthquake was felt in northern New Jersey just before 10:30 a.m. ET, and the aftershocks were all recorded in the immediate area of the earthquake, USGS said.

According to USGS, the largest of the six aftershocks was 2.2 magnitude, recorded just after 1:30 p.m. ET.

Here's a timeline (all times are ET):

10:23 a.m.: The initial 4.8 magnitude earthquake occurred
11:20 a.m.: 2.0 magnitude aftershock
11:37 a.m.: 1.8 magnitude aftershock
11:49 a.m.: 2.0 magnitude aftershock
12:31 p.m.: 1.8 magnitude aftershock
1:14 p.m.: 2.0 magnitude aftershock
1:32 p.m.: 2.2 magnitude aftershock

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a social media post that "aftershocks of these size are normal and are not expected to cause further damage."

The governor said there have been no reports of injuries or damage.

See how people in the Northeast reacted when the earthquake hit

From CNN's Jeremy Moorhead and Sean Clark

When an earthquake rattled buildings across the Northeast Friday morning, stunned residents described initially thinking a passing tractor-trailer or freight train was passing them before they realized it was something more.

There were reports of the 4.8 magnitude quake being felt from Philadelphia to New York City, according to the US Geological Survey.

See how some people reacted:

3 neighboring homes in New Jersey evacuated after reporting structural damage, offical says

From CNN’s Nic F. Anderson and David Goldman

Three neighboring homes in Newark, New Jersey, have been evacuated after residents reported structural damage following this morning’s earthquake, according to the local public safety director.

Newark Public Safety Director Fritz Fragé told CNN no injuries have been reported after firefighters responded to reports of damage at the homes in an area more than 30 miles from the earthquake’s epicenter.

He said 10 families were relocated from the buildings, including 25 adults and three children.

Fragé added that all Newark city buildings, including City Hall and recreation centers, are closed. He said the city is inspecting buildings for any potential damage and power outages.

Also in New Jersey’s Essex County, in Montclair, officials believe the earthquake caused a water main break, according to an update from the Office of Emergency Management for the Township of Montclair. The OEM said the water bureau is working to repair the line.

The Montclair OEM said authorities have conducted a damage assessment of the township and there are no signs of damage to the infrastructure and all schools and municipal properties report no damage.

Today's earthquake was the strongest in New Jersey in more than 240 years

From CNN's Elliana Hebert, Sara Tonks and Eric Zerkel

First responders arrive to inspect homes in Lebanon, New Jersey, on Friday.

The rare 4.8 earthquake that struck northern New Jersey Friday was the third-strongest to strike the state, according to CNN analysis of US Geological Survey data.

The Friday morning earthquake also marked the strongest since 1783, more than 240 years ago. Two 5.1 magnitude temblors are the only stronger quakes in the state — one in 1755 and another in 1783. Both happened before New Jersey became a state in December 1787, but happened in the geographic area that now comprises the state's boundaries.

The quake is the third-strongest to hit the Northeast in 50 years and the 10th-strongest of all time in the region, USGS data shows.

Earthquakes in New Jersey and the region are rare. There have only been 24 earthquakes of 2.5 magnitude or greater in New Jersey since 1700.

All aspects of New York City transit system operating safely after earthquake, MTA chief says

From CNN's Samantha Beech

All aspects of the New York City transit system are operating safely following this morning’s earthquake, the Metropolitan Transport Authority, which runs the city's subway and other forms of public transit, said.

MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said every part of the transit system operated safely during the earthquake, as well.

He said initial facility inspections have been completed, including inspections of the seven bridges the MTA operate.

“I want to emphasize those were designed to withstand much stronger seismic impact than we experienced today,” he added.

According to the MTA website , MTA Bridges and Tunnels (B&T) serves more than 900,000 vehicles on an average day. In 2019, it carried more traffic than any bridge and tunnel authority in the nation — more than 329 million vehicles, the MTA says.

Lieber said MTA frontline staff have been directed to report any abnormalities in the system, but he said nothing had been flagged so far.

There's a low likelihood of aftershocks following today's quake, New York City's emergency chief says

New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zachary Iscol speaks at news conference at the New York City Emergency Management Department on Friday in New York.

There is a low likelihood of aftershocks following Friday's 4.8 magnitude earthquake that rattled several Northeast cities, New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zachary Iscol said.

Iscol, however, urged New Yorkers to remain vigilant.

“If you are outside during an aftershock, please move to an open area, away from buildings, trees and power lines. If you are driving, pull over to a safe location," he said at a news conference Friday alongside New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

Iscol said there were no major impacts or safety events related to the earthquake, and added that New Yorkers can call 311 to report any damage.

The quake, he said, triggered the activation of the city's emergency response teams and prompted officials to issue guidance to the public.

“We activated our protocols for this earthquake, we immediately began coordinating with all city, state, federal and our utility partners. Public notifications were sent out both by Notify NYC and our wireless emergency alert system,” he said.

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Clearing ahead, sun just in time for eclipse!

We’re finally getting rid of that pesky storm system that brought all the cold, wet and wintry weather over the last several days. Skies will continue to clear into Monday morning. With winds tapering off, we’ll wake up to patches of frost to kick off the week.

ECLIPSE MONDAY

Monday is an important day as we experience an extremely rare solar eclipse! This will be visible across New England, with totality visible in northern areas. The weather is turning into a late-spring feel just in time, with mostly sunny to clear skies and temperatures in the low to mid-60s. We expect some thin, high cirrus clouds in western New England around the time of the eclipse, but they should not be thick enough to significantly impact viewing.

SOGGY LATE WEEK

Tuesday marks the Red Sox home opener in Boston, and the weather looks fantastic with at least partly cloudy skies and temperatures in the mid-50s. The coast will feel cool thanks to a steady onshore breeze returning. Our next chance for rain arrives on Wednesday and will continue through the end of the work week. Stay tuned as we iron out the details on when the rain could get heavier and potentially cause more flooding issues.

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Slow improvement
The storm center that caused all the problems in New England continues to pull away to the northeast. Winds will still be brisk, but much lower Friday. Temperatures will be in the 40s. If you are lucky enough to see a little early sun, enjoy it. Clouds and showers are back in the afternoon. Saturday ...