Foreign Office issues warning for visitors to Spain, Turkey, Greece and Cyprus
Foreign Office issues warning for visitors to Spain, Turkey, Greece and Cyprus
The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office has issued warnings about extreme heat in four countries
Firefighters continue to extinguish wildfires on the Greek Island of Chios in Athens, Greece
(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images )
Brits heading to Spain, Turkey, Greece and Cyprus have been given a warning by the Foreign Office as a heatwave sweeps across the European Union. Northern Europe is currently enduring an early summer heatwave, with forecasters warning of soaring temperatures in the weeks to come.
France's national weather agency, Meteo France cautioned that the high temperatures put "everyone at risk, even healthy people." In Portugal, it recently recorded its highest temperature this year at 40.5°C, while parts of Spain has risen above 42°C.
In Chios, Greece, locals have been evacuated after the tinder-dry island burst into flames over the weekend.
Wageningen University environmental systems analysis professor, Bas Amelung said: "Countries such as Spain, France, Italy, Greece and Turkey that currently attract the traditional 'sun and sand' summer tourists are likely to become too hot for comfort in the summer.
"People take decisions based on their perceptions.
"So if a large majority of holidaymakers thinks some European destinations will soon be 'too hot', they may well start adapting, either by going somewhere else in summer or by going to the same place in another season."
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The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) has issued warnings about extreme heat in four countries on its website.
The advice is as follows.
Greece
"Greece can experience extreme natural phenomena such as earthquakes, wildfires, extreme heat and flash floods.
"Take extra care when planning a hike or walk, especially during higher temperatures than you are used to. Trails often lack shade and the quality of route markings can vary.
"Do not light fires as it is both dangerous and illegal due to the high risk of wildfires." For the latest restaurant news and reviews, sign up to our food and drink newsletter here
Turkey
"Extreme temperatures can affect many areas of Turkey over the summer months. Wildfires happen frequently in Turkey during summer."
Cyprus
"The Department of Meteorology of Cyprus issues warnings for severe weather, especially during summer. Weather can sometimes cause travel disruption."
Spain
"Temperatures in some parts of Spain can change very quickly. Take extra care when planning a hike or walk. Check local weather reports for warnings of extreme heat or cold temperatures."
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