Wildfires have struck popular holiday destinations in the eastern Aegean, forcing tourists to evacuate hotels on the Greek islands of Chios and Kos. Greek fire department spokesperson Vasilia Vathrakoyiannis reported 52 wildfires in the previous 24-hour period. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis warned that the summer is expected to be particularly dangerous, citing drought and unusually strong winds. He added that the most difficult times are still ahead.
In neighbouring Turkey, fires have spread through Izmir and parts of the Turkish riviera, reaching the resort town of Kusadasi and also prompting tourist evacuations. That blaze is the 75th wildfire to hit Turkey this year. Elsewhere, authorities in the South of France have raised alerts over potential forest fires due to rising temperatures and forecast strong winds.
Martyn Sumners, executive director of The Specialist Travel Association (AITO), advises that specialist holiday companies will brief clients on what to do in any circumstances and organise evacuation if necessary. He notes that the UK's Package Travel Regulations require tour operators to look after clients on package holidays, making this the best way to ensure safety and practical help. Tour operators and airlines are monitoring extreme weather and will update customers, including easyJet and Jet2, which issued alerts after the fires on Kos.
Travellers should follow guidance from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), keeping up to date with local emergency services. In Greece, official updates are available via @112Greece, and travellers can register for alerts from the Greek government's Emergency Communication Service by enabling emergency alerts on their devices. For Turkey, travellers should consult the General Directorate of Forestry and the General Directorate of Meteorology. The emergency number in both countries is 112.
The Association of British Insurers (ABI) advises that if a flight or accommodation is cancelled, travellers should seek refunds from the airline, accommodation provider or tour operator first. If a holiday is cut short, a partial refund may be due. Those who booked with a credit card may also have recoverable costs.
