British holidaymakers planning summer travel are being urged to review their travel insurance and understand their rights following devastating wildfires across parts of Europe that have killed dozens and disrupted transport. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued warnings for Spain, Cyprus, Turkey, and France.
Wildfires and Heatwaves Across Europe
High temperatures, dry conditions, and strong winds have fueled major wildfires during Europe's third red-alert heatwave this year. In parts of Spain, temperatures have reached 44°C. A fire in the historic Fontainebleau forest south of Paris forced evacuations on Monday and disrupted road and rail services.
In Spain's Almeria province, at least 13 people have died after one of the country's deadliest wildfires started on Thursday afternoon, spreading rapidly due to extreme heat. As of Monday, 10 people remained missing after the blaze hit an isolated expatriate community in southern Spain.
FCDO Advice for Travellers
The FCDO warns: "There is a high risk of wildfires during the summer season from April to October. Ensure that your mobile phone is registered to receive emergency alerts to be warned of wildfires near your location. Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. The situation can change quickly."
Travellers are urged to stay alert throughout the summer and follow local emergency services instructions.
What to Do If Your Holiday Is Disrupted
Anna-Marie Duthie, a travel insurance expert at Defaqto, advises: "If your airline cancels your flight due to wildfires, they should offer you the chance to rebook, or provide a full refund. If your holiday was booked as a package, this refund should cover all elements: flights, accommodation and transfers. But if you've booked everything separately, you'll need to deal with each provider independently."
Insurance Coverage for Wildfires
Whether travel insurance covers wildfires depends on the policy. According to insurer Go Compare, protection varies. Some standard policies offer no cover, while comprehensive ones may provide limited protection. Wildfire cover typically falls under 'catastrophe cover' or 'natural disasters cover'. According to Defaqto, only 50% of single-trip and 52% of annual travel insurance policies offer such cover.
Duthie explains: "Current clauses may refer to 'severe' or 'extreme' weather, but the definitions can vary. Where heat causes wildfires, this is a separate consideration and would be classed as a catastrophe or natural disaster. Cover depends on your insurer's definitions and extent of benefits."
Future Implications for Travel Insurance
Looking ahead, Duthie warns that climate change will likely bring new challenges. "Whilst it's difficult to know exactly how travel insurance may change over the next decade, longer term there is a chance that we may end up seeing less insurable destinations and increased premiums. What we do know, however, is that travel insurers are used to having to adapt to an ever-changing world."
If government advice changes after booking, travellers may be covered for cancellation or curtailment. Additional travel and accommodation costs due to catastrophic events may also be covered if the policy includes it or if an add-on was purchased.
Safety Advice for Those in Wildfire Areas
If caught in a wildfire, call 112 for emergencies and follow local authorities. Avoid travelling into affected areas, monitor media reports, and carry only essentials: water, documents, medication, and a phone. British citizens should follow all FCDO advice.
