Current Situation
On February 22, 2026, Mexican military forces killed Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) — one of the most powerful and dangerous criminal organizations in the world.
In response, cartel members launched a wave of retaliatory violence across more than a dozen Mexican states, including roadblocks, car fires, and clashes with security forces. Major airports in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta experienced flight cancellations, leaving thousands of American tourists stranded.
As of February 23rd, a U.S. Embassy in Mexico City issued emergency shelter-in-place order for U.S. citizens is in effect across multiple states. The situation remains fluid, and you should check travel.state.gov/Mexico for the most up to date information.
If You Are Currently in Mexico
If you are currently in an affected area, the State Department is advising that you follow these steps immediately:
— Stay where you are. Remain in your hotel or residence and minimize all unnecessary movement.
— Monitor local media and official U.S. government channels for the latest updates.
— Keep family and friends in the United States informed of your location and well-being.
— Avoid any areas with road blockages, law enforcement activity, or large crowds.
— Contact the U.S. Embassy using the numbers below.
Flight Cancellations and Travel Disruptions
Multiple U.S. and Canadian airlines have canceled or suspended flights to and from Puerto Vallarta (PVR), Guadalajara (GDL), and Mazatlán (MZT) through at least February 26. Airlines that have issued cancellations or travel waivers include United, American, Southwest, Delta, Alaska, Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter Airlines.
If you have an upcoming flight to or from an affected airport:
— Contact your airline directly for the most current flight status and rebooking options. Most carriers have issued fee-free rebooking waivers for affected passengers.
— Do not travel to the airport until you have confirmed your flight is operating and shelter-in-place guidance has been lifted for your area.
— Check your airline’s app and the airport’s official channels before departing your hotel.
The situation remains fluid. Flight schedules are changing rapidly. Verify status as close to your departure time as possible.
Key Contacts
U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico
From within Mexico: +52-55-2579-2000
From the United States: +1-301-985-8843
U.S. State Department — Bureau of Consular Affairs
From the U.S. and Canada: +1-888-407-4747
From overseas (including Mexico): +1-202-501-4444
Additional resources
Official Mexico Travel Advisory — travel.state.gov/Mexico
U.S. Embassy Mexico Alerts — mx.usembassy.gov/category/alert/
Need Help from Our Office?
If you are currently in Mexico and need assistance, contact our Des Moines District Office: (515) 400-8180
Our team is monitoring the situation closely. Congressman Nunn is committed to ensuring every Iowan abroad has the information and support they need to get home safely.