The Foreign Office has issued new travel advisories for UK holidaymakers jetting off to Spain, Italy, and Greece, as the quest for summer sun intensifies. With Europe engulfed by a severe heatwave, temperatures have soared to 40C in parts of Greece and Spain, while Italy is also grappling with intense heat following extreme conditions in Cyprus and Turkey.
Spain has activated yellow warnings due to the scorching temperatures, signalling potential “moderate” harm to individuals and property, as per the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), akin to the UK’s Met Office. Higher-level orange alerts are in place for regions including Campina sevillana, Campina cordobesa, and Valencia.
The Foreign Office advises travellers to stay informed through AEMET and European Meteorological Services regarding severe weather updates.
British nationals are also encouraged by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to consult NHS advice on coping with the heatwave and to adhere to guidance from the Spanish Ministry of Health. Additionally, the FCDO has highlighted concerns over “highly dangerous and unpredictable” wildfires in Italy amid the rising temperatures.
UK travellers jetting off to Greece have been reminded to “check the latest alerts and weather forecast and follow advice of local authorities if you’re considering travelling to affected areas. Take care when visiting or driving through woodland areas and report fires to the emergency services”, reports Birmingham Live.
In a recent update, the UK Foreign Office advises: “Be cautious if you are in or near an area affected by wildfires.”
Travellers are encouraged to follow @112Greece for official updates, heed the advice of the emergency services and immediately dial 112 contacting the Greek emergency services should danger present itself.
Foreign nationals are also urged to liaise with their airline or travel operator who can offer assistance with repatriation to the UK.