As Greece reaches the peak of its summer tourist season, a series of severe wildfires have disrupted the country’s idyllic landscapes, impacting popular destinations. The earliest-ever heatwave in June has set the stage for a summer marked by extreme temperatures and destructive blazes. Recent wildfires on several Greek islands have prompted evacuations and raised concerns for travelers.
Recent Wildfire Outbreaks
The latest blaze erupted near Rethymno on Crete, igniting around midday on August 7. This fire has already consumed more than 2,000 acres and has spread in multiple directions. Emergency alerts have been issued for residents in Apodoulou, Agia Paraskevi, Chordaki, and Agios Ioa. Despite heightened wildfire preparedness, including the deployment of 190 firefighters, 45 vehicles, five water-dropping helicopters, and two aircraft, the fire has proven challenging to control due to its spread into nearby ravines.
Travel Safety and Advisory
For travelers with upcoming trips to Greece, there is currently no official travel restriction. However, it is crucial to adhere to local safety advice, stay informed about wildfire risks in your area, and monitor any evacuation orders. Greece has strengthened its wildfire preparedness this summer, employing more staff, advanced drones, and early warning systems to track potential fires effectively.
Causes of the Fires
The current wildfires in Greece are attributed to prolonged drought and dry conditions exacerbated by a “hot air balloon” from Africa, combined with unusually strong winds. These factors have created ideal conditions for wildfire outbreaks. The high temperatures and dry weather are contributing to the tinderbox-like environment conducive to rapid fire spread.
Refunds and Travel Adjustments
If you choose not to travel to Greece due to wildfire concerns, it is advisable to contact your accommodation, flight, or trip provider directly. Refunds are not guaranteed unless official travel advisories are issued. Under the Package Travel Regulations, travelers who experience evacuations may be entitled to reasonable compensation if their travel provider does not offer a refund or vouchers. If already in Greece and needing to return home early, some providers may allow for early departure without additional charges, though this depends on individual policies and insurance coverage.
UK Foreign Office Guidance
The UK Foreign Office has not issued any travel restrictions for Greece but warns of a high risk of wildfires during the summer months. Travelers are advised to follow local guidance to avoid starting wildfires, such as disposing of litter properly, ensuring cigarettes are extinguished, and avoiding lighting barbecues. The Office emphasizes that causing a wildfire, even unintentionally, is a criminal offense in Greece. For updates, travelers are encouraged to follow @112Greece on X (formerly Twitter) and adhere to local emergency services’ advice.
Historical and Regional Context
The wildfires in Greece are part of a broader pattern of extreme weather affecting Europe. Last summer saw a high incidence of fires across the continent due to similar weather conditions. Human activity has been a significant factor in many fires, with over 160 arrests related to fire incidents as of late August.
Other European regions, including parts of Türkiye, Cyprus, and southern Switzerland, have also faced severe weather impacts. In Türkiye, wildfires ravaged several districts, and in Greece, extreme temperatures led to the closure of schools and tourist sites like the Acropolis in June. Additionally, areas of southern Switzerland, northeast France, and northern Italy have experienced damaging storms and torrential rain, resulting in casualties.
Conclusion
As Greece battles severe wildfires amid a peak tourist season, travelers should remain vigilant and follow local safety recommendations. The situation underscores the need for continued awareness and preparedness in the face of increasingly frequent and intense wildfire events.