Greece wildfire update: High-risk areas, travel tips, and safer alternatives for tourists
Greece wildfires overview
As summer progresses, southern Europe is grappling with a serious wildfire crisis, particularly in Greece. The situation has led to significant travel disruptions and raised safety concerns for tourists planning to visit the region. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the current state, including travel advice on areas to avoid, safer alternatives, and critical precautions to take.
Most impacted areas by wildfires in Greece
1. Athens and surrounding areas:
Wildfires have been raging near Athens, particularly around Lake Marathon and Mount Pendeli, forcing the evacuation of over 25 suburbs in the northern part of the city. The flames have come dangerously close to densely populated areas, leading to widespread evacuations, including hospitals, monasteries, and children’s homes. Though firefighters have contained much of the blaze, the city remains covered in smoke and ash, causing poor air quality and health risks. Authorities are still on high alert as conditions remain volatile due to strong winds and high temperatures.
2. High-risk regions in Greece:
The fire risk extends beyond Athens, with several regions placed under Alert Level 4 (high risk). These include:
• Attica Region (excluding Kythera Island)
• Central Greece (Viotia, Evia)
• Peloponnese (Argolida, Corinth)
• Crete island
Emergency measures have been activated across these areas, with the closure of forests and parks, increased patrols by police and the army, and heightened preparedness for evacuations.
3. Weather conditions and fire risk in Greece
Greece has experienced one of its hottest summers on record, with June and July setting temperature records. The extreme heat, combined with dry conditions and gale-force winds reaching up to 90 km/h in some regions, has created a “tinderbox” environment, perfect for the rapid spread of wildfires. Weather forecasts predict continued high temperatures, nearing 40°C in some areas, keeping fire risks elevated.
Travel Advice: Areas to Avoid
Northern Suburbs of Athens: If your travel plans involve visiting northern parts of Athens or nearby regions like Marathon and Mount Pendeli, consider postponing your trip. These areas have been significantly impacted, with evacuations and ongoing firefighting operations making travel risky.
Central and Southern Greece: Areas in Central Greece, including Viotia and Evia, as well as the Peloponnese, are under high alert. Travel to these regions should be approached with caution, and outdoor activities, especially in forested or mountainous areas, should be avoided.
Greek islands at fire risk: Parts of the Aegean, including the Cyclades, Lesvos, and Chios, are also under threat. If you have plans to visit these islands, stay informed about local conditions as travel may be disrupted, and some areas may face evacuations.
Safer travel destinations to consider
If you are concerned about your travel safety but still want to explore southern Europe, consider the following alternatives:
Northern Greece and Coastal Areas: Regions further away from the wildfire zones, like Thessaloniki or the northern coast, are less impacted and offer a mix of cultural experiences and beach destinations.
Western Europe: Countries like Portugal, Spain, and Italy are also experiencing heatwaves, but some northern or coastal regions remain safe and cool. Consider visiting cities like Porto or northern Italy, which are currently less affected by wildfires.
Cooler European Destinations: For those looking to escape the heat altogether, destinations in northern Europe like Ireland, Scotland, or Scandinavia are ideal options. These regions offer stunning landscapes and cooler climates, making them great alternatives for a summer trip.
Practical travel tips and precautions
1. Stay informed: Regularly check updates from local authorities, your embassy, and your travel provider. Keep an eye on the latest news and weather reports as conditions can change quickly.
2. Flexible travel plans: Opt for accommodations and bookings with flexible cancellation policies. Given the uncertainty, it’s wise to plan for potential changes to your itinerary.
3. Health and safety: Poor air quality due to smoke can be harmful, especially for people with respiratory conditions. Pack face masks and avoid outdoor activities if air quality deteriorates.
4. Travel insurance: Review your travel insurance policy to ensure it covers disruptions or cancellations due to wildfires. If you need to cancel your trip, reach out to your insurance provider to understand your options.
The Greece wildfires have raised significant safety concerns for both tourists and residents. While Greece remains a popular destination for summer vacations, the ongoing wildfire crisis has created significant risks and disruptions. Travelers are urged to stay cautious, avoid high-risk areas, and consider alternative destinations if necessary. For those already in affected regions, adhering to local advisories and evacuation orders is crucial for ensuring safety.
