Europe travel alert extended by the U.S. State Department

The travel warning for the European continent has been prolonged until November 30th, due to concerns over terror attacks in the area.

 

Initially set to expire on September 1st, the travel alert for Europe was extended by the U.S. State Department until the end of November, due to security reasons following violent attacks in France, Russia, Sweden, Finland, Spain and the United Kingdom. The extension of the warning aims at American citizens traveling in the continent for business or leisure.

According to the department, the latest incidents indicate that ISIS, al-Qaeda and other affiliates are planning to move forward with the attacks in other European countries.

"The State Department urges U.S. citizens to exercise caution while visiting tourist sites, using public transportation, and at public gatherings. While local governments continue counter-terrorism operations, the Department remains concerned about the potential for future terrorist attacks. U.S. citizens should always be alert to the possibility that terrorist sympathizers or self-radicalized extremists may conduct attacks with little or no warning,” the U.S. State Department’s travel alert quotes.

The three-month alert is more of a precaution measure reiterating the fact that U.S. citizens traveling abroad should register in the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) in order to be updated with the security info the agency provides, as well as to upload the details of the trip for personal safety purposes.

The department advises citizens to be cautious around popular sites, transportation hubs, big markets and shopping facilities, as well as around government buildings, hotels, clubs, restaurants, churches, events and crowded airports.

Moreover, anyone visiting European cities is invited to stay informed on the security situation by checking with the websites of the embassies or consulates in the country of destination for permanent updates.

 

Source: www.cntraveler.com