State Department Expands Shelter‑In‑Place Advisory Nationwide The U.S. State Department issued a security alert on Sunday, Feb 22 2026, urging American citizens to remain indoors in several Mexican tourist regions [1][2]. The advisory now lists Jalisco (Puerto Vallarta, Chapala, Guadalajara), Baja California (Tijuana, Tecate, Ensenada), Quintana Roo (Cancún, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Tulum) and portions of Guanajuato, Guerrero, Michoacán, Oaxaca, Nuevo León and Tamaulipas [1][2]. Officials warned that the heightened risk stems from ongoing military operations and criminal activity linked to the cartel leader’s death.

Mexican Army Raid Eliminates CJNG Leader El Mencho On Feb 22 2026, Mexican army forces conducted a raid in Tapalpa, Jalisco, wounding cartel boss Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” who later died while being air‑lifted to Mexico City [1][2]. The operation resulted in four on‑site deaths, three additional injuries (including Oseguera), and the arrest of two suspects [1][2]. Soldiers seized armored vehicles, rocket launchers and other weapons, while three service members were also wounded [1][2].

Air Travel and Ground Transport Severely Disrupted Puerto Vallarta International Airport cancelled all international flights and most domestic services, placing the facility under National Guard protection [1][2]. Airlines such as Air Canada warned travelers to verify flight status, and roadblocks halted taxis, rideshares and other ground transport in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta [1][2]. Similar disruptions were reported in other affected cities, complicating travel for both locals and tourists.

U.S. Officials Outline Specific Safety Precautions The advisory advises Americans to avoid law‑enforcement zones, stay alert, seek shelter, and monitor local media for updates [1][2]. Travelers should call 911 in emergencies, steer clear of crowds, and keep family or friends informed of their location via phone or social media [1][2]. These steps aim to reduce exposure to potential violence stemming from the operation’s aftermath.