Canada Issues New Travel Advisory: Flooding, Mudslides, and Expanded Biometric Screening for Canadians Visiting The US

Published on December 30, 2025

The Government of Canada has issued an updated travel advisory for Canadians planning to visit the United States. This new advisory, released on December 24, 2025, highlights growing concerns regarding natural disasters like flooding and mudslides in southern California, and it also reinforces the significant changes to U.S. border security policies, which could impact Canadians traveling across the border in the near future.

Though the overall risk level for travel to the U.S. remains at “Take normal security precautions”, the advisory notes a few key updates that Canadians should be aware of. These updates specifically focus on the potential disruptions caused by severe weather and the expansion of biometric screenings at U.S. airports, which could include requests for DNA samples from international travelers, including Canadians.

New Natural Disaster and Climate Risks in the U.S. – Flooding and Mudslides Impacting Travel Plans

One of the most significant updates in this new advisory concerns the increasing risks posed by natural disasters. Southern California is currently experiencing intense weather events, including flooding and mudslides, which have disrupted daily life and travel in several counties. The State of California has declared a state of emergency in areas such as Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego, due to the heavy rains and potential for rockslides and landslides.

The Government of Canada has specifically warned travelers to avoid areas that are vulnerable to these natural disasters. Travelers are advised to stay away from flooded areas and regions prone to landslides. The advisory also suggests that Canadians monitor local weather reports and adhere to evacuation orders and safety instructions issued by U.S. authorities.

Essential services, such as transportation, power, water supply, and emergency services, could be disrupted in these affected areas, and travelers should prepare for the possibility of road closures and damaged infrastructure. If you are traveling to the U.S. during this time, it’s crucial to keep up with real-time updates from local news sources to adjust your travel plans accordingly.

Stricter U.S. Border Policies: Biometric Screenings and DNA Collection for International Travelers

Another important aspect of the updated travel advisory is the introduction of stricter U.S. border security measures, which could affect Canadians and other international travelers. As of December 26, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has expanded its ability to collect biometric data from all non-U.S. citizens entering or exiting the country. This new policy will include fingerprint collection, photographs, and in some cases, even DNA samples from travelers.

These expanded biometric screenings are part of the Trump administration’s efforts to tighten immigration controls and enhance national security. While this policy is intended to help monitor and track individuals crossing U.S. borders, it has raised concerns about the potential invasion of privacy and how the collected data may be used or stored. The U.S. government has indicated that photos will be stored for up to 75 years, but reassurances have been made that the DNA samples will not be used for “blanket surveillance.”

Canadians traveling by land, air, or sea will need to comply with these new regulations, and it’s essential for all travelers to ensure they have valid identification, such as a passport or a NEXUS card. Failure to meet entry requirements could result in delays or denied entry. Travelers should be aware that these enhanced border measures are likely to cause longer wait times and more scrutiny during the entry process.

Ongoing Safety Guidance for Canadians Crossing the Border

Alongside these updates on natural disasters and border policies, the Canadian government continues to advise travelers about common safety issues they may encounter when traveling to the U.S. Petty theft and pickpocketing are common in some urban and tourist areas, especially in larger cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. While violent crime is generally not a major concern for international visitors, certain neighborhoods in the U.S. are known for having higher crime rates, and tourists are encouraged to exercise caution.

The advisory also addresses concerns regarding gun violence in the U.S., particularly the higher rates of firearm possession and the possibility of mass-shooting incidents. Canadians are reminded to stay aware of their surroundings and avoid risky areas when traveling in the U.S.

What This Means for Canadians Traveling to the U.S. in 2026

With flooding, mudslides, and expanded biometric screenings now part of the landscape for Canadians traveling to the U.S., it’s clear that 2026 will require extra planning for cross-border trips. Whether you’re heading to California for a beach vacation or visiting family across the border, it’s essential to stay informed about these new developments and plan your travel accordingly.

The Canadian government encourages all travelers to monitor local weather conditions, check their flight or entry details, and follow all U.S. guidelines related to security and customs processes. It’s also a good idea to stay updated on any changes to border entry procedures to ensure smooth travel across the Canada-U.S. border.

Conclusion: Prepare for a New Era of Border Travel Between Canada and the U.S.

The recent travel advisory updates reflect the growing complexity of cross-border travel in the wake of climate risks, security concerns, and new border policies. Canadians should be prepared for longer waits at the border, more stringent documentation requirements, and potential disruptions due to weather. As 2026 unfolds, it’s more important than ever for travelers to stay informed, exercise caution, and adjust their plans to ensure a safe and smooth journey to the United States.

The U.S.-Canada travel relationship is at a critical juncture, and these policy changes, while aimed at security and safety, underscore the need for both governments to work together to ensure a seamless, secure, and respectful travel experience. As travelers, staying up-to-date on these developments and remaining flexible in your travel plans will help ensure the best possible experience in the new year.