Guadalajara: Security Surge After Cartel Leader’s Death, Travel Cautions Remain in Place

Guadalajara is at the center of heightened security operations this week following the death of a senior cartel figure in western Mexico. Since Sunday, February 22, 2026 (ET), authorities have deployed additional federal forces across the metropolitan area and surrounding highways after coordinated retaliatory incidents disrupted traffic and daily life.

While conditions in much of the city are calmer today, officials warn that localized flare-ups remain possible, particularly along major road corridors.

Guadalajara Security Update: What Happened

The unrest began after a high-profile operation in Jalisco led to the death of a cartel leader. In the hours that followed, armed groups staged road blockades, vehicle arson incidents, and sporadic attacks across parts of the state.

In Guadalajara, the largest city in Jalisco, authorities increased patrols in central districts and along key transit routes. Roadblocks were reported on highways connecting the city to surrounding municipalities, creating delays and temporary closures.

Security forces have since cleared many of the affected routes, but checkpoints remain active in select areas.

Travel in Guadalajara Today: Roads and Airport

Ground transportation remains the biggest variable for residents and visitors in Guadalajara.

• Several major highways that were blocked Sunday night have reopened.

• Secondary roads in some suburbs may still face intermittent monitoring.

• Traffic congestion has been heavier than usual due to earlier closures.

Air travel continues operating. Guadalajara International Airport remains open, with flights arriving and departing. Some travelers experienced delays earlier in the week due to highway access issues rather than airport shutdowns.

Passengers heading to the airport are advised to allow extra time and use primary, well-trafficked routes.

Business and School Impacts Across the Metro Area

Several businesses in industrial zones near Guadalajara adjusted hours or temporarily paused operations during peak unrest. Schools in certain districts suspended classes for at least one day as a precaution.

By Tuesday, February 24 (ET), many commercial activities resumed, though companies are monitoring conditions closely. Public transit services are functioning, but riders have reported occasional route modifications depending on security advisories.

Broader Jalisco Context

Guadalajara’s situation is part of a wider security response across Jalisco, where federal authorities continue targeted operations aimed at preventing further retaliation.

Officials stress that incidents have been concentrated in specific corridors rather than across the entire state. Tourist areas, business districts, and central neighborhoods in Guadalajara are largely operating normally, though the security presence is visibly increased.

Travel advisories currently recommend:

• Avoiding unnecessary nighttime driving outside city centers

• Monitoring official updates before long-distance travel

• Staying clear of any demonstrations or disturbances

What’s Next for Guadalajara?

The coming days will determine whether the situation stabilizes fully or if additional security operations trigger further localized disruptions. Authorities have indicated that patrols and checkpoints will remain elevated for the near term.

For now, Guadalajara remains open, with daily life gradually returning to normal in most neighborhoods. The key risk continues to be sudden, short-term disruptions rather than sustained citywide shutdowns.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed and plan travel conservatively while the broader security response in Jalisco continues.