US Consulate Message: Border Crossings
EMERGENCY MESSAGE FOR U.S. CITIZENS: MASS PROTESTS AND POINTS OF ENTRY BLOCKADES EXPECTED FROM TIJUANA TO MATAMOROS ON DECEMBER 8, 2014
This message is to inform U.S. citizens of significantly delayed crossing times and of the potential closure of many of the points of entry (POEs) between the United States and Mexico due to multiple protests on Monday December 8th, 2014, starting at 10:00 AM.
The protests concern changes in Mexican customs regulations for the importation of vehicles. While protestors are only looking to block POEs with heavy commercial traffic, there is a possibility that other POEs into the U.S. could also be affected. At this time, there is no information that leads us to believe that these protests would be violent. However, demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence at any time. U.S. citizens are urged to avoid areas of demonstrations, and to exercise caution if in the vicinity of any protests.
U.S. Citizens are strongly encouraged to monitor local news outlets for information about possible protests and POE closures in their area. In the past, similar protests have paralyzed bridge traffic between Eastern Texas and the Mexican State of Tamaulipas. Points of entry that have remained open have experienced long delays.
Review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates and any news of other protest activity throughout the country of Mexico. Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling or residing abroad enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment allows you to receive the Department’s safety and security updates, and makes it easier for the nearest U.S. embassy or U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you do not have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Regularly monitor the State Department’s website where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution, and read the Country Specific Information for your destination countries. For additional information, refer to the "Traveler's Checklist" on the State Department's website. Current information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free from within the United States and Canada, or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us on Twitter and on Facebook.
