With Europe enduring another intense summer marked by extreme heat, two of the Mediterranean’s most beloved tourist destinations—Greece and Türkiye—are once again facing a devastating wildfire season. Fueled by prolonged drought, rising temperatures, and high winds, wildfires have scorched forests, prompted mass evacuations, and threatened both locals and travelers across these countries.
For tourists planning to visit this summer, understanding the risks and how to respond is essential to staying safe and enjoying your trip responsibly.
Wildfires Intensify Across Southern Europe
In Türkiye, a major wildfire near Bursa, the nation’s fourth-largest city, led to the evacuation of over 3,500 people and tragically claimed the lives of several firefighters. The Turkish Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry warned that the country is entering an extremely high-risk period for wildfires, particularly in western and southern regions.
Meanwhile in Greece, flames raged near Athens, affecting areas close to the university campus and surrounding suburbs. On the island of Kythera, strong winds accelerated a fire that reportedly destroyed about 10% of the island’s total land area. Both destinations are experiencing one of their most dangerous wildfire seasons in recent memory.
According to the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS), Greece and Türkiye have seen wildfire occurrences and burned area statistics rise dramatically in 2024 and 2025, with climate change identified as a major driver of this new normal.
What Travelers Should Know Before Visiting Greece or Türkiye
Both nations are still welcoming tourists, but staying informed, prepared, and flexible is critical. Here’s how travelers can protect themselves:
1. Monitor Wildfire Alerts and Warnings
- Greece: Register for real-time emergency alerts through the Civil Protection Service. These alerts are typically issued via SMS with evacuation orders, fire status updates, and safety advice.
- Türkiye: Stay connected with local authorities through the Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), which offers updated fire warnings and safety recommendations.
- For U.S. citizens abroad, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for embassy alerts.
2. Enable Emergency Alerts on Mobile Devices
Activate emergency notifications on your smartphone to receive immediate alerts about wildfires or evacuation orders. Most iOS and Android devices support this feature under Settings > Notifications > Government Alerts.
3. Stay Tuned to Local News and Weather Channels
Use reliable apps such as:
- Meteo.gr for Greek weather and fire risk levels.
- MGM (Meteoroloji Genel Müdürlüğü) for Türkiye’s official weather updates.
Emergency Preparedness: What to Pack in a Wildfire ‘Grab Bag’
As recommended by the UK Foreign Office and local civil protection agencies, tourists should prepare an emergency kit in case of sudden evacuations. Include:
- Passports and identification
- Charged mobile phones and power banks
- Cash and bank cards
- Essential medications and prescriptions
- Travel insurance documents
- Spare clothing, water, snacks, and face masks
- Map of the area in case GPS fails
Keep this bag near your accommodation’s exit and inform others in your group of the plan in case of emergency.
Don’t Skip Travel Insurance—Verify Wildfire Coverage
Before departing, ensure that your travel insurance covers natural disasters, including:
- Trip cancellation due to fire-related disruptions
- Emergency medical care and evacuation
- Missed flight or hotel access due to wildfire zones
Some policies may also offer coverage for “loss of enjoyment” or trip interruption due to wildfires, but not all standard policies do. Confirm terms in writing with your insurance provider.
What to Do If a Wildfire Breaks Out During Your Trip
If you’re already in Greece or Türkiye and find yourself near an active fire:
- Follow all local evacuation orders immediately.
- Stay away from wildfire-affected areas even if fires appear distant.
- Use emergency numbers.
- Seek guidance from your hotel or tour operator. They are often in direct contact with emergency services and have evacuation plans.
- If flights or accommodations are canceled, contact your airline or travel agent and refer to your insurance policy for reimbursement or rebooking options.
Sustainable Travel and Climate Awareness
As tourists, staying safe during wildfires is just one part of the equation. Climate change is intensifying Mediterranean fire seasons, and tourism contributes to both emissions and resource pressure in vulnerable areas.
- Consider booking eco-conscious tours.
- Choose carbon-offset flights and sustainable accommodations.
- Respect local fire bans and avoid risky behaviors like outdoor grilling.
Final Thoughts: Travel Responsibly, Stay Informed
The beauty of the Mediterranean—from the historic ruins of Athens to Türkiye’s coastal villages—remains a major draw for travelers worldwide. While wildfires present serious challenges, proper planning and awareness can ensure a safe and rewarding journey.
By staying connected to local updates, packing wisely, securing appropriate insurance, and acting responsibly, visitors can still enjoy these destinations and support their communities during a difficult summer.
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