The US State Department ended “Shelter in Place” advisories to US citizens in Mexico on Wednesday, February 24, 2026, after the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) unleashed a wave of violence there on Sunday in revenge for the killing of its leader by government security forces.
Mexico’s Embassy to the United States declared the security situation in the country to have “stabilized” in a post on X.com Wednesday morning. Less than an hour later, the US Embassy in Mexico seemingly agreed through its own post on X.com.
The US Embassy in Mexico announced the end to the “shelter in place” advisory through an updated “Security Alert,” which also updated US citizens wishing to leave that country on the current transportation situation:
FLIGHTS
Flight schedules have returned to normal in Guadalajara and many airlines have extra flights planned for today, February 24, in Puerto Vallarta. Both airports are secure, and amenities are available.
If your direct flight to the United States is cancelled, you might consider booking a connecting flight through another Mexican or U.S. city.
ROADS
We have no reports of road closures directed by local authorities, though some roads in Jalisco State (including between Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta) are not yet fully reopened.
Actions to Take:
Check with your airline to confirm your flight status and schedule.
If you need to rebook your flight, do so before arriving at the airport or anticipate long lines and allow extra time.
Monitor local media for updates.
Follow the directions of local authorities and in case of emergency, call 911.
Keep family and friends advised of your location and well-being via phone, text, and social media.
Assistance:
Contact Form
U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico
From Mexico: (55) 2579 2000
From the United States: 011 52 55 2579 2000 or +1-301-985-8843
Department of State – Consular Affairs: +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444
Links:
Mexico International Travel Information
U.S. Citizens in Mexico WhatsApp Channel
U.S. Passports
Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP)
Department of State on Facebook and X
The Mexican Embassy in the US also provided information about travel conditions:
“Federal and State authorities are proceeding to reopen transit corridors and restore public services smoothly.
Airline operations are normal, and international carriers are resuming flights today. Puerto Vallarta International Airport has reopened to domestic traffic.
If travelling through Jalisco, some local security measures remain in place, while authorities are restoring airport operations to full capacity.
We are working with international partners to ensure safety and stability at all transit hubs and tourist destinations.”
The State Department began issuing “Shelter in Place” advisories to US Citizens on Sunday, February 22, 2026, after Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) members unleashed violence across the country in revenge for the killing of its leader, Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes (commonly referred to by his alias “El Mencho”) during a Mexican military operation.
El Mencho was the most wanted person in Mexico and one of the most wanted in the U.S.
CJNG Cartel members set cars, buses, service stations, and convenience stores afire in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta and engaged Mexican Security Forces in firefights on city streets. Cartel violence was reported in dozens of Mexican states.
“This successful operation is part of a broader national effort that has produced a sustained decrease in violence across Mexico in recent months. The Mexican government remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the peace and safety of everyone in the country.” - Mexican Government Statement
Now that the security situation in Mexico has “stabilized,” would you go there?
Share your opinion in the comments to this article!
Thanks for reading the US Border News! This post is public, so feel free to click the button below to share it.
Abrazos,
Jack Beavers
Jack, I'm the "shelter in place " has been lifted. People still need to leave. Mexico is still a country owned by the Cartels. Kidnapping of USA citizens has always been a problem. My husband was in Mexico for business numerous times. They always had a dedicated driver. They were instructed to never leave the "compound " , a hotel with restaurants. They were cautioned not to use ice in their drinks. Bottled beer was the safest.