MORE TERROR CONCERNS – AT 6:51 P.M. ET:  The seriousness of the terror threat in Europe is being brought home once again.  Washington is not underplaying it:

WASHINGTON -- The Obama administration is considering telling U.S. citizens to be vigilant as they travel in Europe, updated guidance prompted by fresh al-Qaida threats, American and European officials told The Associated Press on Saturday.

Such a move could have negative implications for European tourism, business and diplomacy if travelers fear there's a possibility of terror attacks.

The State Department may issue a travel alert as early as Sunday advising Americans to stay vigilant as they travel through Europe because of fresh threat information, U.S. officials told the AP.

"We are considering issuing an 'alert' tomorrow," a senior State Department official said following an inter-agency meeting to assess the threat and discuss the language of the advisory. "The bottom line is travel, but be vigilant."

COMMENT:  The fact that an American election is only a month from today must figure into this.  Some terror groups believe they can change the results of elections. 

A travel warning for Americans traveling in Europe is rare.  In fact, I don't recall the last one.  Obviously, the nature of the information we have is chilling.

October 2, 2010