Travel Warning Issued During Busy Holiday Season
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GRAPEVINE (CBSDFW.COM) - As many people prepare to travel for Thanksgiving, the U.S. State Department has issued a worldwide travel warning for Americans. Local law enforcement agencies are also on high alert. Officials are urging everyone to "exercise particular caution during the holiday season."
The travel alert comes as terror groups like ISIS and al-Qaeda continue to plan deadly attacks. Authorities explained that they may use both conventional and non-conventional weapons. There has been no credible threat to the U.S. at this time, officials said, but more security will be on hand at airports across the nation.
CBS News has also learned that local law enforcement agencies around the U.S. were sent a joint intelligence bulletin from the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security. It has been more than one week since the Paris terror attacks, and the bulletin warns of new ISIS tactics. While the bulletin does not reveal new details about the Paris attacks, it does give police throughout the country the tools to face this new threat.
Officials urge travelers to be vigilant, no matter where they are going during the holiday weekend.
"I think about it, but I can't let it stop me from my travel plans," said Tanya Hill on her way to California. "I know it's out there and happening."
Travelers should also arrive at airports even earlier than usual -- more than two hours ahead of flight time might be ideal. The newly issued travel alert means that Transportation Security Administration workers might take longer when it comes to their screenings, which will surely create longer lines during the busy travel time. They will likely conduct more random screenings as well.