Britons head to the US for a wide range of vacations. The North American country provides beach holidays, skiing trips, city breaks, historical tours, treks and spectacular landscapes, so there’s something for everyone.
However, Britons heading to the US have been given a new warning as current winter storms could endanger their lives.
“Winter storms can threaten lives, create dangerous driving conditions and impact buildings,” holidaymakers were told by the FCDO in its latest update.
“Severe weather may also damage infrastructure, cause power cuts, and disrupt transport services.”
Britons travelling to America must monitor local news and warnings ahead of their trip
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Britons heading to the US have been advised to take precautions to stay safe.
They were warned: “You should monitor local news and warnings, follow instructions from local authorities and contact your travel company or airline before you travel.”
As of March 12, American Airlines issued a travel warning on its official website. It reads: “When severe weather or other uncontrollable events impact your flight and travel dates, you may be able to change your trip with no change fee.
“We understand you may have questions about your upcoming travel. We’re working around the clock to care for you on your travel journey.”
The airline provided information on passengers travelling to, through or from Colorado, or to, through or from Dallas / Fort Worth, Texas.
This comes as it is revealed that Winter Storm Qadir is set to bring the heaviest snow for three years to America.
Britons were also warned that “extreme heat is currently affecting many parts of the USA”. To stay safe, they were urged to check the temperature in the area they are visiting and visit the CDC website for information on how to take care of themselves.
Earthquakes are also generally a risk in Alaska, American Samoa, California, Guam, Hawaii, Northern Mariana Islands, Oklahoma, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington (state), and the US Virgin Islands, warned the FCDO.
To learn more about what to do before, during and after an earthquake, visit the Federal Emergency Management website.
Britons visiting the US should also consult the FCDO’s advice on GOV.UK for information and guidance on tornadoes, volcanic eruptions in Hawaii, wildfires and arctic travel.
As for terrorism and crime risks, visitors to the US have been warned that “there is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets.” To stay safe, travellers “should remain vigilant at all times”.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. The FCDO also has guidance on reducing your risk from terrorism when abroad.
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A winter storm has hit parts of America, including Colorado
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Britons were cautioned: “Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in the US. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners.
“You should remain aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Targets could include crowded areas, transportation networks and public events.
“The US Department of Homeland Security provides current alerts within the USA and its territories.”
Britons can consult the Government website on crime, including theft, violent crime and protests, laws and cultural differences, and transport risks.
British holidaymakers travelling to the Caribbean have also been issued a warning as one country declares a “state of emergency”.
