Travel Advisory for the United States: Ensuring a Safe Trip

Planning a trip to the United States? Whether you’re drawn to the bustling cityscapes, stunning national parks, or vibrant cultural experiences, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest travel advisories. This guide provides a comprehensive overview to help you prepare for a safe and enjoyable journey across America.

Understanding the Risk Level in the United States

Currently, the United States advises travelers to take normal security precautions. This is the lowest level of advisory, suggesting that everyday safety measures are generally sufficient for most travelers. However, like any destination, it’s crucial to be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Safety and Security Considerations Across the USA

While the general risk level is low, certain areas and situations warrant increased vigilance.

Border Areas with Mexico: Increased Caution Advised

If your travel plans include the southern border region, particularly the states of California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, be aware that criminal activities related to drug trafficking are more prevalent here.

For those crossing the U.S.– Mexico border by car:

Remain extremely vigilant: Be aware of your surroundings and potential dangers.
Use official border crossings only: Stick to recognized and authorized entry points.
Avoid nighttime travel: Limit border crossings to daylight hours when visibility and safety are better.

Crime in the United States: A Detailed Overview

Like any large and diverse nation, the United States experiences crime. Understanding the types of crime and where they are more likely to occur can help you stay safe.

Petty Crime: Common in Urban and Tourist Areas

Petty theft, including pickpocketing and purse snatching, is a concern, especially in crowded urban centers and popular tourist hotspots.

Never leave valuables unattended in parked cars: This includes rental vehicles and even locked trunks, as these can be targeted by thieves.
Keep belongings secure at all times: Protect your passports, travel documents, wallets, and electronic devices in crowded places. Consider using money belts or secure bags.

Violent Crime: Concentrated in Specific Areas

Violent crime in major cities is more frequently reported in poorer neighborhoods, particularly during evening and nighttime hours. Intoxication often plays a role in these incidents. Gangs and organized crime groups are often involved, but individuals can also perpetrate violent acts. While tourists are less frequently targeted by violent crime:

Be mindful of your surroundings at all times: Pay attention to who and what is around you, especially at night.
Check neighborhood crime statistics: Before exploring unfamiliar areas, especially at night, consult official crime data to understand the local safety situation.
If confronted by robbers, remain calm and do not resist: Your safety is paramount. Cooperate and avoid escalating the situation.

For detailed crime statistics, refer to the Crime Data Explorer provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Gun Violence: High Firearm Possession Rates

The United States has a high rate of firearm ownership. In many states, it is legal for citizens to openly carry firearms in public. Mass shootings, unfortunately, occur and often result in casualties. While tourists are rarely directly involved, there is a potential risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Familiarize yourself with active shooter response protocols: Understand how to react in an active shooter situation. Resources like the Active Shooter Event Quick Reference Guide from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) can be helpful.

Home Break-ins: Risk for Vacation Homeowners

Canadians who own vacation homes in the U.S. have been targeted for break-ins and burglaries.

Secure your property: Ensure windows and doors are securely locked at night and whenever you are away from your property. Consider additional security measures for vacation homes.

Common Criminal Tactics Targeting Travelers

Be aware of robbery tactics specifically designed to target visitors. Some criminals operate near airports and tourist areas, signaling to drivers as if there is a problem with their vehicle. When the driver pulls over, they seize valuables. Another tactic involves throwing objects at windshields to force drivers to stop.

If you suspect such a ploy:

Do not pull over on the side of the road: Avoid stopping in isolated or unlit areas.
Activate hazard lights and slowly drive to a safe, populated location: Proceed to a gas station, police station, or another public area where you can safely assess the situation.

Demonstrations and Civil Unrest

Demonstrations and public gatherings can occur and may sometimes become violent unexpectedly. These events can also disrupt traffic and public transportation.

Avoid demonstration areas and large gatherings: Steer clear of areas where protests or large crowds are assembling.
Follow instructions from local authorities: Heed any guidance or orders issued by police or other officials.
Monitor local media for updates: Stay informed about any ongoing demonstrations or potential disruptions through local news sources.

For more information, refer to guidance on Mass gatherings (large-scale events).

Fraud and Financial Security

Credit card and ATM fraud, including debit card cloning, is a risk. Exercise caution when using your financial cards.

Pay close attention when your cards are handled by others: Keep your card in sight during transactions.
Use ATMs in well-lit public areas or inside banks/businesses: Choose secure ATM locations to minimize the risk of tampering.
Avoid card readers with irregularities: Be wary of unusual features or attachments on card readers.
Cover the keypad when entering your PIN: Protect your PIN from being visually recorded.
Regularly check account statements for unauthorized transactions: Monitor your accounts for any suspicious activity.

Learn more about protecting yourself from Overseas fraud.

Terrorism Threats: Remain Vigilant in Public Spaces

There is an ongoing threat of terrorism in the United States. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time and target various locations, including:

Government buildings and schools
Places of worship
Airports, transportation hubs, and networks
Tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centers, markets, and hotels
Always be aware of your surroundings in public places: Maintain a heightened sense of awareness in public areas and be attentive to any suspicious activity.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) utilizes the National Terrorism Advisory System to communicate information about potential terrorist threats to the public.

Hiking and Mountaineering Safety

For those planning outdoor adventures like hiking, backpacking, or skiing:

Never engage in these activities alone: Always travel with a companion or group.
Hire experienced guides from reputable companies: For challenging hikes or mountaineering, utilize the expertise of professional guides.
Purchase travel insurance with helicopter rescue and medical evacuation coverage: Ensure your policy covers emergency situations in remote areas.
Obtain detailed route information and stay on marked trails: Plan your routes carefully and avoid deviating from established paths.
Ensure adequate physical fitness: Be sure you are in good enough physical condition for your planned activities.
Be properly equipped and informed about weather conditions: Pack appropriate gear and stay updated on weather forecasts.
Inform someone of your itinerary: Leave your travel plans with a family member or friend, including expected return times.
Learn the symptoms of altitude sickness: Understand the signs of acute altitude sickness, which can be life-threatening at higher elevations.

Air Travel Safety Standards

It’s important to note that government travel advisories typically do not assess the compliance of domestic airlines within foreign countries with international safety standards.

For further information, consult resources about Information about foreign domestic airlines.

Entry and Exit Requirements for the United States

Entry and exit regulations are determined by each country. The Government of Canada cannot intervene if you do not meet the destination’s requirements. Information provided here is sourced from U.S. authorities but can change. Always verify the latest details with Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport Requirements for U.S. Entry

Proof of Canadian citizenship is mandatory for entry into the U.S. Several documents can fulfill this requirement.

Air Travel Passport Requirements

Canadian citizens flying to the United States must present one of the following:

Valid Passport: Must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the U.S.
Valid NEXUS card: Accepted at self-serve kiosks at designated airports.

This applies to all Canadian citizens, including children, traveling by air to, or even transiting through, the United States.

Land and Water Travel Passport Requirements

Under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), Canadian citizens aged 16 and older entering the U.S. by land or water must present one of these documents:

Valid Passport
Trusted Traveler Program card (e.g., NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced Identification Card (EIC) from participating provinces or territories.
Secure Certificate of Indian Status

The WHTI-compliant document must be valid for the duration of your stay.

For Canadian citizens aged 15 and under entering the U.S. by land or water, acceptable documents include:

Passport
Original or copy of a birth certificate
Original Canadian citizenship certificate

Visa Requirements for Canadians

Canadian visitors generally can stay in the United States for up to 6 months without a visa. You must declare your intended stay duration upon entry. In most cases, visas are not needed for tourism, business, or transit from Canada. However, exceptions exist.

Refer to Canadians Requiring Visas for detailed information.

Canadian Permanent Residents: Visa Needs

Canadian permanent residents may require a non-immigrant visa to enter the United States. This visa must be obtained from U.S. authorities before travel, along with a valid passport from your country of citizenship.

Consult Cross U.S. Borders for more details.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

Citizens of countries in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Instead, they must obtain pre-travel authorization via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to departure.

U.S. Permanent Residents: Green Card Required

Canadians who are U.S. permanent residents must present a valid U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) upon entry.

See International travel as a U.S. Permanent Resident for details.

First Nations and Native Americans Born in Canada

Members of Canada’s First Nations and Native Americans born in Canada have the right to freely enter the United States for employment, study, retirement, investment, or immigration.

Working in the United States

Most Canadian business travelers can apply for admission at a U.S. port of entry without a non-immigrant visa. However, specific documentation may be required depending on the business category. For those planning to work in the U.S., contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for specific requirements.

Studying in the United States

Canadian citizens do not require visas to study or participate in student exchange programs in the U.S. However, registration with SEVIS, a U.S. student tracking system, is necessary. Students must present their SEVIS registration form to CBP officers upon each entry.

Length of Stay Regulations

For stays exceeding 6 months, apply for an extension from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within the U.S. before your initial authorized stay expires. Immigration officers may require proof that you are a temporary visitor.

The U.S. government strictly enforces immigration rules. Overstaying your authorized period can lead to serious consequences, including detention and deportation. While there is no fixed waiting period to re-enter after an authorized stay, CBP officers may scrutinize frequent or lengthy visits to ensure you are genuinely a temporary visitor and not residing in the U.S.

For extension applications, refer to Extend your stay.

Biometric Data Collection at Entry

Upon entering the United States, non-U.S. citizens are required to provide biometrics, such as digital fingerprints and photographs. Most Canadian citizens are exempt, except for those who:

Require a visa or waiver of ineligibility.
Need an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record form.

Random screenings of exempt Canadians have occurred. If you believe your information was wrongly collected, address it directly with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Electronic Device Inspections at the Border

U.S. border agents have the authority to search electronic devices like phones, computers, and tablets upon entry into the U.S. They do not need a reason to request passwords to unlock devices. Refusal may result in device seizure, travel delays, or denial of entry for non-U.S. citizens.

Set devices to airplane mode before crossing: Prevent accidental downloading of remote files during inspection.

Refer to Inspection of Electronic Devices for more details.

Preclearance in Canada

U.S. preclearance facilities at certain Canadian airports allow travelers to clear U.S. customs and immigration before departure. You must meet U.S. entry requirements at preclearance. U.S. preclearance officers can inspect luggage and deny entry.

Making false statements to a preclearance officer is an offense under Canada’s Preclearance Act. Within preclearance areas, Canadian law applies, including the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

You can withdraw your U.S. entry request and leave preclearance unless an officer suspects false statements or obstruction, in which case detention under Canadian law may occur.

Find Preclearance Locations for participating airports.

Criminal Record and U.S. Entry

A criminal record, regardless of severity or age, may lead to denial of entry into the United States. Even a Canadian pardon is not recognized under U.S. law. Problems can also arise when transiting through U.S. airports.

If ineligible for U.S. entry, you can apply for a temporary waiver of inadmissibility through U.S. Customs and Border Protection at a U.S. embassy or consulate or at land borders.

U.S. ports of entry are computerized with access to centralized criminal databases. Past entries without issue do not guarantee future entry if a criminal record or prior denial of entry is found. Attempting entry without a waiver could result in detention and a permanent U.S. entry ban.

Cannabis and U.S. Border Entry

Despite cannabis legalization in some U.S. states, it remains illegal under U.S. federal law. Crossing the Canada-U.S. border with any amount of cannabis, in any form, is illegal.

Attempting to cross with cannabis can result in legal prosecution, fines, and potential jail time. Even if traveling to a state where cannabis is legal, do not bring it across the border.

Boating in U.S. Waters: Reporting Requirements

Operators of small pleasure vessels arriving in the U.S. from a foreign port must immediately report their arrival to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for inspection at a designated reporting location. Exceptions may apply under programs like Nexus Marine.

Refer to Pleasure Boat Reporting Requirements for details.

Cruises and Passport Requirements

A valid Canadian passport is required for cruises departing from the United States. Some destination countries will not permit entry without a passport. A passport is also essential for re-entering the U.S. at the end of a cruise.

Cruise ship authorities may hold passports during the cruise for administrative purposes and U.S. immigration clearance. If your passport is held:

Obtain a receipt.
Ensure you get your passport back at the cruise end.
Carry a photocopy of your passport with you at all times.

Pet Travel to the U.S.

Pets must appear healthy upon arrival at a U.S. port of entry. Evidence of poor health may result in examination, testing at your expense, or denial of entry.

Additional requirements may include:

Import permit
Export or health certificate
Proof of vaccination (e.g., rabies)

Quarantine requirements may apply.

Children Traveling to the U.S.

Canadian citizens under 19 traveling with school or organized groups under adult supervision must carry written parental/guardian consent.

Yellow Fever Entry Requirements

Consult the health section regarding potential yellow fever vaccine entry requirements.

Health and Wellness During Your U.S. Trip

Important Travel Health Notices

This section provides health risk information and advice to help reduce illness while traveling. Not all risks are listed. Consult a healthcare provider or travel health clinic ideally 6 weeks before your trip for personalized health advice. Even with short notice, an appointment is still beneficial.

Routine Vaccinations

Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before any travel, including: measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Refer to Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information.

Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications

When traveling to the United States, discuss potential vaccine-preventable or medication-preventable diseases with a travel health provider.

Yellow Fever

There is no risk of yellow fever in the United States. Vaccination is not required for entry and is not generally recommended for travel to the U.S.

Rabies

Rabies is present in some wildlife species, including bats, in the United States. Rabies spreads through bites or scratches from infected animals and is fatal.

If bitten or scratched, wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention. Rabies vaccination may be recommended for travelers working directly with wildlife.

Measles

Measles is highly contagious and spreads easily. Anyone unprotected is at risk internationally. Ensure you are fully protected against measles before traveling.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a risk worldwide and is transmitted through blood and body fluids. Travelers potentially exposed to blood or bodily fluids (sexual contact, medical treatment, needles, tattoos, acupuncture, occupational exposure) are at higher risk. Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travelers. Practice safe sex, use sterile equipment, and ensure safe tattoo/piercing practices.

Influenza (Flu)

Annual flu vaccination is the best protection against seasonal influenza. Get vaccinated at least 2 weeks before travel. Flu occurs globally, with seasons varying by hemisphere: November to April in the Northern Hemisphere, April to October in the Southern Hemisphere, and year-round in the tropics.

Flu spreads through coughs, sneezes, and contaminated surfaces. Practice hand hygiene and wear a mask if you have respiratory symptoms.

COVID-19

COVID-19 is an ongoing infectious disease risk. Complete a COVID-19 vaccine series and recommended boosters before traveling. Vaccination is highly effective against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. However, infection risk remains. Unvaccinated individuals face increased risk of infection and severe disease.

Check destination COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Consult a healthcare professional to ensure adequate protection against COVID-19 before travel.

Safe Food and Water Practices

Unsafe food or water can cause illness. Take precautions:

Eat safely prepared food only: “Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it.”
Avoid water in eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater: Especially after rain or flooding, as contamination risk is higher.
Don’t swallow water while bathing, showering, swimming pools, or hot tubs.

Refer to Eat and drink safely abroad.

Tick and Insect Bite Prevention

Ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, and flies transmit many diseases. Learn about local insects and ticks, their activity times, and diseases they carry.

Protect yourself from bites:

Use approved insect repellent on exposed skin.
Wear light-colored, loose, tightly woven clothing (nylon or polyester).
Wear socks and closed-toe shoes.
Use mosquito netting if sleeping outdoors or in unenclosed spaces.
Conduct full body tick checks after outdoor activities on yourself, children, gear, and pets.

Refer to Insect bite and pest prevention and Personal insect repellents.

Zika Virus

Zika virus is a risk in some U.S. areas, primarily spread by mosquito bites and sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Areas at Risk for Zika for current information.

In Zika risk areas:

Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
Use condoms correctly or avoid sex, especially if pregnant.

Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy should discuss Zika risks with a healthcare provider and may choose to postpone travel to risk areas.

See Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy for more information.

Dengue Fever

Dengue risk in the U.S. is sporadic. Dengue is mosquito-borne and causes flu-like symptoms, and in severe cases, fatal dengue. Risk levels vary seasonally, yearly, and regionally, including by elevation. Dengue-carrying mosquitoes bite during the daytime, especially around sunrise and sunset.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites. No vaccine or medication prevents dengue fever.

Animal Precautions

Animal-to-human infections like rabies and avian flu are possible. Activities increasing animal contact risk include:

Rural or forested area travel
Camping, hiking, cave visits
Visiting live animal markets

Reduce risk by avoiding contact with stray animals, livestock, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Avoid undercooked meat. Supervise children closely around animals.

Avian Influenza

Human avian influenza cases have been reported in the U.S. Avian influenza spreads rapidly among birds and rarely to humans. Risk is low for most travelers.

Avoid contact with birds (wild, farm, backyard, dead or alive) and surfaces contaminated with bird droppings. Ensure poultry and eggs are thoroughly cooked.

Higher-risk travelers include those:

Visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
Working with poultry
Hunting, handling, or butchering wild birds
Working with wild birds or mammals (especially predators of birds).

Seasonal flu shots are recommended to protect against human influenza viruses, although they do not prevent avian flu, they can reduce co-infection risk.

Person-to-Person Infections

Reduce respiratory infection risk (flu, COVID-19):

Stay home and limit contact if sick.
Wear a well-fitting mask, especially when sick, at indoor events, or in crowded places.
Wash hands frequently with soap and water (20 seconds) or use hand sanitizer (60% alcohol).
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow.

Refer to Mass gatherings (large-scale events), Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases, and Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures.

To reduce STI, HIV, and mpox risk:

Get mpox vaccine if eligible.
Reduce sexual partners.
Use condoms and dental dams during sexual activity.

Refer to Mpox vaccines, Sexual health and travel, and HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice.

Medical Services and Facilities

Healthcare in the U.S. is excellent and widely available. However, treatment costs are high. Emergency care is provided at all hospitals regardless of payment ability, but all services are billed. Foreign visitors without travel health insurance will pay out-of-pocket.

Ensure comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation and hospitalization coverage.

Refer to Health and safety outside Canada.

Medication Regulations

Import restrictions and prohibitions exist for certain prescription drugs in the U.S. Some over-the-counter Canadian medications require prescriptions in the U.S.

Bring sufficient medication quantities.
Carry a physician’s note explaining your condition, if applicable.

Important Health Reminder

Travel decisions and personal safety are your responsibility. Be prepared and do not expect Canadian-level medical services. Pack a travel health kit, especially for travel outside major cities.

Laws and Cultural Norms in the United States

You are subject to local U.S. laws. Learn about assistance if you are arrested or detained abroad. Laws vary significantly by state. Consult the website of your destination state before traveling.

Legal Penalties and Offender Transfer

Serious law violations can lead to jail sentences or, in some states, the death penalty. Canadian citizenship offers no legal immunity or preferential treatment. Jail sentences are served in U.S. prisons unless a transfer to a Canadian prison is approved by both the U.S. and Canada under a treaty.

Drug Laws and Penalties

Penalties for illegal drug possession, use, or trafficking are severe, including lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

Refer to Drugs, alcohol and travel.

Cannabis Laws

Despite state-level cannabis legalization, it remains federally illegal in any form or quantity. Bringing cannabis across the Canada-U.S. border is illegal. Doing so can result in prosecution, fines, and potential jail time.

Prescription Medication Regulations

Personal medications are subject to U.S. drug importation laws. Generally, a 90-day supply of personal medication is allowed, but U.S. Customs and Border Protection has discretion.

When traveling with prescription medication:

Bring only the quantity needed for your stay plus a week’s extra.
Keep medications in original, labeled packaging with your name, drug name, dosage, and DIN.
Carry a duplicate prescription listing generic and trade names.
Have a physician’s note explaining your condition and syringe necessity, if applicable.

Refer to Prohibited and restricted items.

2SLGBTQI+ Travelers

Some states have laws and policies that may affect 2SLGBTQI+ persons. Check state and local laws before traveling.

Refer to Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics.

Dual Citizenship Considerations

Dual U.S.-Canadian citizenship is legally recognized in the U.S. Consular services for dual citizens in the U.S. may be limited. Different entry/exit requirements may also apply.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on International Child Abduction applies between Canada and the U.S. It assists parents in returning children wrongfully removed to or retained in treaty countries.

If your child has been taken to or is being held in the U.S. against custody rights:

Act quickly.
Contact your provincial/territorial Central Authority for Hague Convention application information.
Consult lawyers in Canada and the U.S.
Report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or Global Affairs Canada’s Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit.

Canadian consular officials cannot intervene in private legal matters or foreign judicial affairs.

Expedited Removal at U.S. Border

U.S. Customs and Border Protection can bar non-citizens from the U.S. for five years for presenting false documents or misrepresentation. Lying to customs officials is a serious offense. No formal appeal process exists for expedited removal, but supervisory review can be requested from the USCIS district director at the port of entry.

Refer to Find a USCIS office.

Import and Export Regulations

Contact the specific U.S. Customs and Border Protection office at your planned Canada/U.S. border crossing for current allowances and restrictions on items entering the U.S., as these change frequently. Declare all items at entry.

Refer to Contact information for USCBP.

Travel to Cuba from the U.S. Restrictions

U.S. sanctions restrict travel between the U.S. and Cuba for tourism. Travel from the U.S. to Cuba is permitted under specific categories if requirements are met.

Refer to Cuba sanctions.

Driving Regulations in the U.S.

A valid Canadian driver’s license is accepted in the United States. Traffic laws vary by state.

Automobile Insurance Requirements

Many states mandate auto insurance and proof of insurance. Check specific state motor vehicle department requirements. For driving to Mexico from the U.S. in your personal vehicle, liability and additional auto insurance may be needed.

Hitchhiking Risks

Never cross the border with or as a hitchhiker. You could be implicated in illegal activities. Be cautious about passengers and items in your vehicle, as drivers can be held responsible for passengers’ actions and belongings, even without awareness.

Currency and Finances

The U.S. currency is the U.S. dollar (USD). Canadian currency and Canadian bank personal checks are not widely accepted. Most banking transactions require a U.S. bank account.

There is no limit to the amount of money legally brought into or out of the U.S. However, declare to U.S. Customs and Border Protection if you carry more than US$10,000 (cash, checks, money orders, traveler’s checks, or other convertible assets) into or out of the U.S., or if you expect to receive more than US$10,000 while in the U.S. Failure to declare can result in civil and criminal penalties, including currency seizure.

Natural Disasters and Climate Considerations in the USA

Natural disasters can occur at any time in the United States.

Refer to Plan Ahead for Disasters.

Climate Change Impacts

Climate change is impacting the U.S., increasing the frequency of extreme weather events that may affect travel plans. Monitor local media for updates.

Hurricane Season Awareness

Hurricanes typically occur:

May to November in the eastern Pacific Ocean (including Hawaii and Guam).
June to November in the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico.

Hurricanes pose serious safety risks and can disrupt essential services. If traveling to these regions during hurricane season:

Recognize serious safety risks.
Be prepared to alter travel plans quickly, including trip cancellation.
Stay informed of weather forecasts.
Carry airline/tour operator emergency contacts.
Follow local authorities’ advice.

Flooding and Landslide Risks

Heavy rains can cause floods and landslides, making roads impassable and damaging infrastructure. Exercise caution near rivers. Stay informed on weather forecasts and follow local authority instructions, including evacuation orders.

Earthquake Zones

Earthquake risk exists in:

Alaska
California
Hawaii
Nevada
Oklahoma
Oregon
Washington State

In earthquake-prone areas, familiarize yourself with emergency procedures.

Heat and Humidity Concerns

Heat and humidity are most intense from June to September, especially in the South and Southwest. Learn the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can be fatal.

Bush and Forest Fire Season

Bush and forest fires are common across much of the U.S., particularly in summer. Wildfires are most frequent during dry, hot periods. Air quality near fires can worsen due to smoke. In case of major fires:

Avoid affected areas, especially with respiratory issues.
Follow emergency service instructions, including evacuations.
Monitor local media for updates.

Tornado Alley

Tornadoes are a risk across the U.S., especially in central, mid-west, and southern states. Tornadoes can occur with little warning. Monitor local news and weather and follow official instructions.

Volcanic Activity

Active volcanoes exist in the U.S. Volcanic eruptions can disrupt air travel, and ash can worsen air quality, especially for those with respiratory conditions. Monitor local media, follow authorities’ advice, including evacuation orders, and be prepared to change travel plans or evacuate quickly.

Tsunami Risk in Hawaii

Hawaii is tsunami-prone. Tsunamis can occur minutes after nearby earthquakes, with risk lasting for hours after the first tremor. If staying on the coast, learn local tsunami evacuation plans.

Refer to Tsunami Evacuation Zones for Hawaii.

By staying informed and prepared, you can navigate your trip to the United States safely and confidently. Always prioritize your well-being and adapt your plans as needed based on the latest travel advisories and local conditions.