Warning may affect travel plans

Anxiety higher after US alert

A global travel alert from the U.S. State Department issued this week could cause anxiety for millions of Americans traveling during a busy Thanksgiving holiday, many to overseas destinations.

The travel alert warns U.S. citizens of the possible risks of travel due to increased threats from terrorist groups. It follows acts of terrorism this year in France, Mali and Egypt, and other regions worldwide.

“U.S. citizens should exercise vigilance when in public places or using transportation. Be aware of immediate surroundings and avoid large crowds or crowded places,” the travel alert stated.

The travel advisory, which expires Feb. 24, also advises Americans to exercise particular caution when attending holiday fes- tivals or events.

Nearly 47 million Americans are set to travel 50 miles or more from home for the holiday through Sunday, including 3.6 million who will fly on planes, according to AAA Travel.

The majority of those — 41.9 million — will travel by car. But even organizers of domestic events such as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City are shoring up security plans.

On the local front, here are some tips to consider if traveling for Thanksgiving:

Airports: More than 1.6 million travelers are set to travel through international airports in Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and Miami over the holiday. Peak days are expected to be Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, according to airport officials. Travelers are advised to check airlines for updated flight information before heading out and review Transportation Safety Administration rules for what can be brought on board.