Authorities advised tourists in Puerto Vallarta to stay on resort grounds after a federal operation in nearby Tapalpa sparked clashes and widespread smoke over the city. The U.S. State Department issued a travel warning urging U.S. citizens to shelter in place for parts of Jalisco and several other Mexican states due to ongoing security operations and road blockages. Jalisco's governor said vehicles were burned and blockades set up to hinder authorities and declared a "Code Red" as incidents spread. Local outlets reported the operation may have targeted the Jalisco New Generation Cartel and leader Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes.
Puerto Vallarta Tourists Told to Stay on Resorts After Federal Operation Sparks 'Clashes'
Tourists in Mexican seaside city told to stay on resort as government warns of ‘clashes’
Tourists in Puerto Vallarta were advised to remain on their resort grounds on Sunday after a federal security operation in nearby Tapalpa led to violent incidents and widespread road blockages across parts of Jalisco state.
Photos and video shared with news outlets showed thick, dark smoke rising over the city's skyline. Guests at a local resort told reporters they were urged to stay inside but were not given immediate, detailed explanations for the precaution.
Smoke was seen rising into the skies of Puerto Vallarta in Mexico's Jalisco state on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026.(Fox News)
U.S. State Department Issues Travel Advisory
The U.S. State Department later issued a travel warning covering multiple Mexican regions and advised U.S. citizens to shelter in place until further notice because of "ongoing security operations and related road blockages and criminal activity." The advisory named parts of Jalisco — including Puerto Vallarta, Chapala and Guadalajara — as well as municipalities in Tamaulipas (including Reynosa), and areas of Michoacán, Guerrero and Nuevo León.
Governor: Operation Triggered Clashes, Blockades
Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro posted on X that federal forces conducted an "operation" in Tapalpa earlier on Sunday that resulted in "clashes". He said individuals in several locations burned and blocked vehicles in an apparent effort to hinder authorities, and that violent incidents and blockades had shifted across the region.
Tourists said they were told not to leave their resort in Puerto Vallarta on Sunday.
"We reiterate the recommendation to avoid leaving your homes," Navarro wrote, noting the government had declared a "Code Red" to protect residents.
State and local officials had not immediately released full operational details. Local media reported the action may have targeted the Jalisco New Generation Cartel and one of its alleged leaders, Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes.
What Travelers Should Know
If you are in the affected areas: follow official instructions, avoid travel, expect road closures, and stay informed via reputable government and local news sources. Authorities continue to respond, and the situation may evolve; travelers should monitor advisories from their governments and local officials.
This report is based on official statements, eyewitness accounts, and local media coverage; details remain subject to confirmation as authorities provide updates.
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