Holiday travelers prepare for tighter security measures amid terror threats

Millions of Americans have been cautioned about terror threats as the country prepares for the busiest holiday travel period of the year.

The United States warned its citizens to exercise caution this season because the Islamic State (ISIS), al-Qaida, Boko Haram and similar groups are still plotting attacks across the globe.

Authorities fear that members of ISIS, also known as ISIL or Daesh, may return to the U.S. or Europe from Syria and Iraq to strike during the busiest travel times of the year; they also believe that lone-wolf terrorists — i.e. those who are unaffiliated with any group but are inspired by major terrorist organization — may target innocent civilians.

The U.S. State Department issued a worldwide travel alert, which expires on February 24, 2016, urging Americans to avoid large crowds or crowded places and stay vigilant while traveling or in public spaces.

“Exercise particular caution during the holiday season and at holiday festivals or events,” the warning reads in part. “U.S. citizens should monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.”

The suspected attackers may use a "wide variety of tactics" against “both official and private interests.”

Drew Bailey, a press officer for the State Department, says that the warning is not meant to advise U.S. citizens to avoid travel to Europe, or any region in particular.

“The safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas is one of the department’s highest priorities, and we provide U.S. citizens with as much information as possible so they can make well-informed decisions before they travel,” Bailey told Yahoo News via email. “The Department of State issued a travel alert to inform U.S. citizens of the current threat level, and to remind travelers to be especially vigilant during the holiday season and at sites frequented by tourists.”

A travel alert, he continued, is used for situations that are expected to be finite or only affect part of a given country or region of the world.

Counterterrorism efforts have been front and center since jihadists murdered 130 and injured hundreds more in at a concert venue, a soccer stadium and bars and cafes in Paris on November 13.

ISIS, who claimed responsibility for the attacks, has since released an unsettling video that juxtaposes busy scenes of New York City with a terrorist preparing for a suicide bombing.

Millions are expected to visit New York on Thursday for Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, but some schools have already canceled trips in light of recent terrorism concerns.

New York Mayor Bill de Blasio and Police Commissioner William Bratton have said that thousands of police officers will be on security duty during the parade. They encouraged New Yorkers and visitors to enjoy the parade and not give in to fear, but to be mindful.

Orlando Veras, director of national media relations for Macy's, says that the company works closely with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies every year to put comprehensive security plans in place.

“As with any public event in New York City, security elements are extensive — from the very visible presence of law enforcement officers to wide-ranging behind-the-scenes security operations,” Veras said in an email to Yahoo News. “The safety of our participants and spectators is the top priority for us and our agency partners.”

Americans can anticipate tighter security throughout the nation as they set off to visit family and friends during Thanksgiving week, the year’s busiest travel period.

AAA forecasts that 46.9 million Americans will take trips at least 50 miles from their home between Wednesday and Sunday – the most since 2007; the organization also estimates that 42 million of those will drive, while 3.6 million will fly.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said that passengers can expect longer wait times at airport checkpoints this holiday season.

“TSA is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of airports this holiday season,” national TSA spokesman Mike England said in an email.

Passengers are asked to plan ahead for security screenings, especially at the country’s busiest airport, by not taking too many carry-on bags, by not carrying prohibited items (as listed on TSA’s website) and by placing large electronic devices in separate bins.

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson said that he understands the anxiety in the country, especially in light of recent events, but said people need to avoid taking misdirected or counterproductive actions.

He urged all Americans to travel, attend public events and celebrate the holidays, but to stay alert and report anything suspicious.

"In a free and open democratic society, we cannot eliminate all risk. Nor should we succumb to panic, fear and anxiety and compromise our values," Johnson said in a statement. "Terrorism cannot prevail in a society that refuses to be terrorized."