Countries may issue travel advisories for various reasons, warning their citizens about potential risks in foreign nations. These warnings could stem from a lack of diplomatic relations, which might prevent citizens from accessing consular assistance if they encounter problems in a foreign country. Other reasons for advisories include rising crime rates or environmental threats like storms, hurricanes, or earthquakes
Recently, the United Kingdom’s Foreign Office has advised British citizens traveling to the United States for business or vacation to be cautious due to an anticipated “above-normal hurricane season” lasting through 2024. With recent hurricanes like Beryl and Debby affecting popular destinations such as Florida and New York, travelers are urged to follow local authorities’ advice during such events.
The UK Foreign Office highlighted that the Atlantic hurricane season typically runs from June to November, while the Pacific season spans from May to November.
These hurricanes can impact coastal regions, including Hawaii and Guam, and the South Pacific tropical cyclone season, affecting American Samoa, usually runs from November to May.
The advisory also mentions the potential for volcanic activity triggered by storms in states like Alaska, Hawaii, California, Washington, and Oregon.
In addition to hurricanes, the extended advisory covers various natural disasters, such as tornadoes and wildfires. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to local guidance, including evacuation orders when necessary.
The advisory also points out that tornadoes can occur at any time, depending on weather conditions, and refers to FEMA’s website for advice on preparing for and responding to tornadoes.
Similarly, the U.S. government issues warnings about extreme and unpredictable weather in other countries. For example, those planning a trip to Antarctica are advised to be aware of environmental hazards due to harsh and unpredictable weather, along with limited emergency services.
The U.S. State Department and the American embassy in Japan have also alerted visitors to the ongoing risk of earthquakes, as Japan is highly seismically active.
While some advisories respond to specific events, such as the earthquake that struck Taiwan in April, others are more general due to the constant risks associated with certain regions. For example, Japan’s location in the Pacific Ocean makes it highly susceptible to earthquakes, and the U.S. Embassy in Japan recently reminded travelers of the varying consequences of quakes depending on the time and season.
