Extreme heat and wildfires pose a serious threat to southern Europe, forcing authorities to impose new restrictions and evacuate residents due to the increased risks to them. Learn about safety measures and risks for tourists and locals in Greece, Spain, Portugal, Albania and Croatia.
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Extreme heat and wildfires are once again wreaking havoc on travellers in Southern Europe. As in previous summers, weather conditions have caused serious problems, leading to mass evacuations and life-threatening situations. At the same time, the risk of wildfires has spread far beyond the Mediterranean region to previously unaffected areas. For more information on new restrictions and safety measures, see the article linked to the Independent.
Read on for top tips for traveling to the popular resort and how to stay safe if exposed to danger.
Greece fires: high risk and evacuations
Greece is at extremely high risk of fire, especially near Athens. The Greek Civil Protection Secretariat has declared the fire danger to be at “very high” and “extreme risk” in many parts of the country. Athens International Airport continues to operate despite the challenging conditions, but passengers have been warned of possible delays due to road closures. Australian Ambassador to Greece Alison Duncan has urged people to avoid affected areas and stay at home if they see smoke nearby.
Fire danger in Spain: increasing risk
In Spain, the meteorological agency declared an “extremely high risk” of fires for much of the country, including the Pyrenees, the Basque Country and southern Spain. Drought has hit the popular tourist island of Mallorca, leading to water restrictions. In the Mediterranean province of Castellon, the worst drought on record has led authorities to ban the filling of swimming pools. Strong winds of more than 50 kilometres per hour are expected in the Canary Islands, particularly Tenerife and Gran Canaria, raising the risk of fires.
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Portugal prepares for peak fire season
Portugal's fire season has already begun and could last until October. The U.S. Embassy in Lisbon has urged people to prepare for evacuation and secure alternative routes in case of possible road closures. More than 250 firefighters are battling a blaze that broke out on Saturday in Montesinho Natural Park in northern Portugal.
Albania: EU helps fight fires
Albania's dry, hot climate means forest fires occur frequently between April and October. The European Union has been providing emergency assistance to Albania since August 14 to help with the firefighting efforts.
Croatia: Strict security measures in forests
Croatia, where almost half the country is covered in forests, is stepping up safety measures to prevent fires. The country is installing 220 cameras at 110 locations in its forests to monitor tourist behavior. Foreigners have been warned that they could face stiff fines for fire-related violations, ranging from 1,200 euros for accidentally starting a fire to 20,000 euros for deliberately starting one, and even prison time.
Remember! Always be safe when traveling internationally. For tourists, especially in Europe, access to medical care in your host country is important, especially since Europe is on fire right now. To get coverage and be confident in your own protection, we recommend purchasing travel insurance, so you can receive assistance across the European Union.
News! We have prepared a list of cities with cool and pleasant climates that are perfect for your summer vacation in 2024. Read our previous article to find out where to go if you are tired of the heat and want a moderately warm vacation.
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Why do forest fires occur?
Forest fires can also be sparked by adverse weather conditions, including rising temperatures, overheating of the soil, and a lack of rain over long periods of time. This can lead to drought, making peat more susceptible to spontaneous combustion. High and gusty winds can also cause fires to spread quickly. Forests located near large industrial areas, health facilities, roads, and power grids require special attention.
Why is it so hot in Europe right now?
Europe has always had hotter months, but climate change is making them worse in many parts of the world, with experts pointing to the El Niño and La Niña weather phenomena as a contributing factor. El Niño, known as the “global warming phenomenon” – defined as above-average sea surface temperatures and increased precipitation in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean – has global effects that affect Europe.
What will temperatures be in Europe in 2050?
According to a 2050 climate scenario developed by NASA, if greenhouse gas emissions continue to increase at the current pace, global warming could increase by an additional 1.5 degrees by 2050. For example, in Andalusia, temperatures can reach 40 degrees Celsius more than 20 days a year. Even cities like Berlin often experience days when temperatures exceed 35 degrees Celsius. Climate change can limit outdoor work and, in extreme cases, put lives at risk.
Where is the coolest place in Europe in summer?
To avoid the extreme heat, tourists should opt to travel to northern and central regions of Europe, including Copenhagen (Denmark), Isle of Skye (Scotland), Amsterdam (Netherlands), Reykjavik (Iceland), Faroe Islands (Denmark), Oslo (Norway), Sopot (Poland), Devon (England), Rovaniemi (Finland), Stockholm (Sweden), or Ostend (Belgium).
