U.S. Issues Level 4 Travel Warning for Texas-Mexico Border

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates have issued a 'Level 4 - Do Not Travel' advisory for parts of the Texas-Mexico border, particularly in Tamaulipas, due to a sharp rise in cartel violence and the use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Areas such as Reynosa, Rio Bravo, Valle Hermoso, and San Fernando are of particular concern, with reports of gun battles occurring at night and instances of IEDs injuring civilians. Travelers are advised to avoid unpaved roads and to travel only during daylight hours, while officials emphasize the dangers posed by both gun violence and explosives. Recent incidents, including the destruction of a government vehicle by an IED, highlight the immediate risks in these regions. The Tamaulipas government has acknowledged the threats and has issued warnings against touching unknown devices found on roads. The advisory reflects ongoing security challenges that have escalated due to the activities of organized crime in the area.