Wildfires in Spain's Almería province have killed 13 people, including seven Britons, raising concerns for holidaymakers with bookings in the region. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice, urging those in affected areas to follow local authorities and avoid travel into or through wildfire zones.
What to Do If Your Holiday Is Affected
Anna-Marie Duthie, an insight consultant at independent financial research company Defaqto, advises that if an airline cancels a flight due to wildfires, passengers should be offered rebooking or a full refund. For package holidays, the refund should cover flights, accommodation, and transfers. However, if bookings were made separately, travellers must contact each provider individually, as accommodation may not be refunded if the property is undamaged.
Checking FCDO Advice and Insurance Cover
Travellers should regularly check the FCDO website for destination-specific advice. Duthie notes: "If government advice changes, advising against travel to the area after you have booked your trip, then you may be covered for cancellation or curtailment." Additional travel and accommodation costs due to catastrophic events may also be covered if the insurer offers this or if the traveller has paid for it.
Future Impact on Travel Insurance
Duthie suggests that extreme weather could lead to fewer insurable destinations and higher premiums in the long term. However, she adds: "It is unlikely and we are yet to see any immediate changes to policies because of the current heatwave." She explains that current clauses may refer to 'severe' or 'extreme' weather, but definitions vary, and no providers specify maximum temperature criteria. Wildfires are classified as catastrophes or natural disasters, with cover depending on the insurer's definitions and benefits.
