U.S. Warns Against Travel to Tamaulipas as Violence and Explosives Threaten Safety
The U.S. government has escalated its travel advisory for Tamaulipas, Mexico, to Level Four—Do Not Travel, citing increased violence and the growing presence of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in key areas. The advisory, issued by the U.S. Embassy in Mexico, urges U.S. citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to the region due to severe security threats.
Rising Security Concerns in Tamaulipas
Tamaulipas, which borders South Texas, has long been a hotspot for cartel-related violence. Despite an increase in federal police presence, cities like Reynosa still face critical shortages in law enforcement, with an estimated 3,000 additional officers needed to improve security.
“Level four, the highest risk level—that’s the latest security alert issued by the U.S. Embassy in Mexico for the state of Tamaulipas,” authorities confirmed.
The lack of security forces has allowed organized criminal groups to operate with relative impunity, leading to frequent shootouts, kidnappings, and now, the deployment of homemade explosives on roads used for illicit activities.
Deadly Explosives Found on Tamaulipas Roads
Mexican authorities have issued urgent warnings regarding IEDs, which have been discovered in Río Bravo, San Fernando, Reynosa, and Baja. These makeshift explosives have killed at least two people and injured several others since January 23rd.
In response, the Tamaulipas state government has ordered the closure of small unpaved roads where the explosives have been found. Additionally, military forces are actively patrolling these areas to locate and remove any remaining threats.
“The military is now patrolling these roads to locate and remove any remaining IEDs,” officials stated.
U.S. Consulate Issues Safety Recommendations
The U.S. Consulate in Matamoros has strongly advised U.S. citizens to avoid travel to the region or take extreme precautions if travel is unavoidable. They also recommend enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time security updates.
Safety Recommendations for Travelers:
✅ Avoid travel to Tamaulipas unless absolutely necessary
✅ Stay on major highways and avoid unpaved or isolated roads
✅ Monitor official travel advisories from the U.S. Embassy and local authorities
✅ Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time alerts
Government & Travel Advisory Resources
For the latest updates on travel advisories and safety measures, visit:
- U.S. Department of State – Mexico Travel Advisory – travel.state.gov
- U.S. Embassy in Mexico – mx.usembassy.gov
- U.S. Consulate in Matamoros – mx.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/matamoros
- Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) – step.state.gov
