Wildfires in France and Spain have forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee homes and tourist hotels, but flights from London to the affected regions remain operational as of Monday morning. The blazes have ravaged areas near Bordeaux, Madrid and Valencia, prompting local authorities to urge tourists to stay away.
Wildfires in France and Spain
In France's Gironde region, around 220,000 people have been evacuated as a massive wildfire approaches Bordeaux. Strong winds have pushed the flames to within 15km of the city centre, and authorities ordered the complete evacuation of the Cap Ferret peninsula after multiple campsites were destroyed. Officials are considering a total evacuation of Bordeaux and Gironde, while President Emmanuel Macron’s government plans a crisis meeting.
In Spain, wildfires have broken out near Madrid and Valencia, with about 116,000 evacuated across the country. The Spanish government has declared a national emergency, and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is expected to visit Valencia on Monday.
Bordeaux
Two firefighters have died battling the Bordeaux wildfires. The airport's hotel zone has been evacuated, but the airport itself remains operational, so flights from London continue. Travellers are advised to seek accommodation outside evacuated areas. Rain overnight has provided some relief, but temperatures of 36°C are forecast later in the week.
Madrid
Fires in the Madrid and Ávila regions, including Burgohondo, San Martin de Valdeiglesias, and Almorox, have eased overnight. Eight municipalities near Toledo have also been evacuated. Flights to Madrid are operating as usual, but poor air quality and black smoke have been reported in parts of the capital.
Valencia
A blaze in Valencia's Castellon province has ravaged over 4,300 hectares, claiming one life. Some 15,000 people have been evacuated. Flights to Valencia have not been cancelled as of Monday morning.
Travel Advice and Insurance
Local official Sophie Brocas said: “We urge tourists not to come to this region, at least until the situation is under control.” The UK Foreign Office has warned British tourists to follow local authority advice, monitor local media, and check accommodation before travelling. If a flight is cancelled by the airline, passengers may be eligible for refunds; if the Foreign Office advice does not change, voluntary cancellations are not refundable. Package holiday customers whose accommodation has closed should receive a full refund. Travel insurance policies should be checked for cover of natural disasters.
