Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of State issued an updated travel warning to U.S. citizens planning to travel to and live in Mexico. According to the Department of State, while most victims of criminal violence in Mexico are Mexican citizens associated with criminal activity, the current situation poses serious risks to U.S. citizens in the region as well.

As of September 10, the U.S. Consulate in Monterrey has removed all minor dependents of U.S. government personnel and family members in other areas of northern Medico had also been previously authorized to depart.

While millions of U.S. citizens do safely visit Mexico each year, the Department of State does strongly urge U.S. citizens to understand the risks involved in travel to Mexico, how to best avoid dangerous situations and who to contact if they become a victim of crime or violence.