Uruguay, Venezuela and Japan issue travel warnings for the US after shootings

They issued the advisories for travel to the United States after more than 30 people were killed in 24 hours

Dayton, Ohio where a gunman killed nine people. 

Japan, Uruguay and Venezuela have each issued travel warnings to citizens visiting the United States following two mass shootings that killed 31 people in Texas and Ohio.

In a statement released by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign affairs, Japanese travellers were warned to be aware of the potential for gunfire incidents across the United States and to pay close attention to safety measures. The release called the country a "gun society".

Dangerous cities

Uruguay's Foreign Ministry also advised citizens to take precautions and be aware of rising hate crimes in the US. A statement urged travellers to avoid cities including Detroit, Baltimore and Albuquerque, which it stated were among the most dangerous in the world, research by CEOWorld magazine shows.

Travellers were also to be on alert when visiting places where large groups congregate such as theme parks, malls, art festivals and sports events, many of which feature prominently in typical tourist itineraries.

Venezuela’s travel advisory statement also urged citizens to postpone coming trips to the US following recent gun violence. Issued by the Foreign Ministry, it said "violent acts and hate crimes" need to be considered by those planning to visit the US.

Gun culture

The warnings don't come without substance. This year the US has recorded 33,237 shooting incidents, resulting in 8,796 deaths and 17,840 injuries.

On Saturday August 3, a gunman added El Paso to the US cities rocked by gun crime when he killed 22 people at a busy supermarket. Hours later, another gunman secured the same fate for Dayton when he opened fire, killing nine people.

US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump plan to visit both cities on Wednesday August 7.