Tropical storm conditions are possible from Monday 30 October along the Pacific coast of El Salvador as a result of Tropical Storm Pilar. A Tropical Storm Watch is in place for the entirety of the coast.

You should closely monitor local and international weather updates from the US National Hurricane Center and follow the advice of local authorities and your tour operator, including any evacuation orders. As of 29 October, the El Salvadoran government have declared a State of Emergency in response to storm Pilar.

See the tropical cyclones page for advice about how to prepare for travel during hurricane season and what to do ahead of a storm.

In the aftermath of a hurricane or tropical storm, there can be flooding, high winds and continued rainfall. See the tropical cyclones page for further advice on what to expect in the aftermath of a storm.

It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.

Most visits to El Salvador are trouble free. El Salvador has until recently had one of the highest crime rates in Latin America. Despite recent progress made in security, the risks of both petty and violent crime remain. A State of Exception (Emergency) introduced in March 2022 in response to a sharp (and short lived) rise in the number of murders remains in place. See Safety and security

On 15 January 2023, Dirección General de Protección Civil issued a Red Alert in the municipalities of San Lorenzo and Ahuachapan, and a Green Alert in the rest of Ahuachapan and Santa Ana departments, after more than 200 small earth tremors where registered in less than 24 hours. For updated information, you should monitor local media and follow advice from authorities. See Natural disasters

The rainy season runs from June to November and extreme weather events can lead to loss of life, damage to roads, property and infrastructure, and disruption to supplies, services and utilities. You should exercise extra caution if travelling and follow the advice and instructions of local authorities. See Rainy season

Political tensions in El Salvador remain high; public rallies and demonstrations occasionally see violence or public disorder. The El Salvador Constitution prohibits political activities by foreign nationals, and participation in demonstrations may result in detention and/or deportation. You should avoid large gatherings or demonstrations and exercise caution in public areas.

You can get up to date information and advice about volcanic activity on the website of the Directorate General of Civil Protection (in Spanish). See Natural disasters

Although there is no recent history of terrorism in El Salvador, attacks can’t be ruled out. See Terrorism

You can contact the emergency services by calling 911.

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.

If you would like to make the British Embassy in San Salvador aware of your presence in the country please email stay in contact El Salvador