Texas Governor Urges Caution for Texans Amid Mexico Travel Warnings

Abbott says DPS is coordinating with federal agencies as U.S. citizens are advised to shelter in place in several Mexican states.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Texas Governor Greg Abbott is urging Texans currently in Mexico, and those with loved ones traveling there, to closely follow federal travel warnings amid escalating violence and ongoing security operations in several Mexican states. The U.S. Department of State has advised U.S. citizens to shelter in place until further notice in multiple Mexican states due to road blockages, criminal activity, and rapidly changing conditions that pose serious risks.

Why it matters

The travel warnings come as violence and instability continue to plague parts of Mexico, raising concerns for the safety of American travelers. Governor Abbott is taking proactive steps to protect Texans abroad by coordinating with federal agencies and encouraging travelers to stay alert and follow instructions from U.S. officials.

The details

In a press release, Governor Abbott cited guidance from the U.S. Department of State, which is advising U.S. citizens to shelter in place until further notice in multiple Mexican states, including Baja California, Jalisco, Quintana Roo, and parts of Guanajuato, Guerrero, Michoacán, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas. Officials warned that road blockages, criminal activity, and rapidly changing conditions pose serious risks. The Texas Department of Public Safety is coordinating with the U.S. Department of State and the Federal Bureau of Investigation to monitor the situation and share information.

  • The travel warnings were issued on Sunday, February 23, 2026.

The players

Greg Abbott

The Governor of Texas who is urging Texans to follow U.S. travel warnings amid rising violence in Mexico.

U.S. Department of State

The federal agency that has issued travel warnings advising U.S. citizens to shelter in place in several Mexican states due to security concerns.

Texas Department of Public Safety

The state agency that is coordinating with federal authorities to monitor the situation in Mexico and share information.

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What they’re saying

“Texans' safety remains my top priority, whether they are at home or traveling abroad. I encourage all Texans to stay alert, remain in contact with the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate, and follow instructions from U.S. officials.”

— Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas (kiiitv.com)

What’s next

The Texas Department of Public Safety will continue to coordinate with federal agencies to monitor the situation in Mexico and provide updates to Texans as needed.

The takeaway

The escalating violence and security concerns in parts of Mexico have prompted urgent travel warnings from U.S. officials, underscoring the importance for Texans to exercise extreme caution and heed the guidance of authorities when traveling abroad.