Wildfires continue to spread across France, Greece, Turkey, and Syria as a severe heatwave intensifies, with temperatures in parts of Spain, Italy, and Portugal reaching record highs.
In Greece, over 160 firefighters, accompanied by trucks and aircraft, battled major fires in southern Evia, prompting evacuations of villages and tourist areas, according to FTN News.
Last week, at least 5,000 tourists were forced to evacuate parts of Crete as a massive wildfire scorched forests and olive groves on the Greek island, reported the Independent.
Turkey’s İzmir and Hatay regions have also been walloped—with travel hubs like İzmir’s Adnan Menderes Airport affected.
According to reports, authorities have linked several fires to suspected arson.
Tourist Alerts & Safety Measures
- In Greece, tourists are advised to download the 112 emergency alert app and monitor the Civil Protection Agency's updates.
- In Turkey, heed fire bans, report new blazes immediately to 112, and stay alert for any evacuation orders.
- Keep away from active fire areas, rural forests, and trails—especially near Evia, Chios, and west Turkey.
- Numerous ferry and airport disruptions have been reported, and travellers are being urged to check flight statuses regularly.
Heed Local Regulations & Avoid Flames
- Fire regulations are strict. Discarding cigarettes or lighting barbecues in forests can lead to heavy fines—or worse—especially along Turkey’s Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
Include passports, travel documents, medications, an N95 mask (for smoke), water, and a charger.
Be ready to leave quickly if needed.
Health Safety Tips
- Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours (midday/afternoon).
- Stay indoors, drink plenty of water, and follow air-quality alerts.
- Wear an N95 mask if the smoke haze is heavy.
According to Travel.gc.ca, Canadians in Greece and Turkey should “exercise a high degree of caution,”—typical for countries where active crises are underway.
Canadians are advised to:
- Register correctly with consular services before travelling.
- Monitor government travel advisories frequently for updates.
- Have flexible itineraries and be prepared with evacuation-ready emergency kits.
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