Here’s everything you need to know about travelling to Greece as the wildfire risk remains high

15.08.2024 - 06:36 / euronews.com / Kyriakos Mitsotakis / Saskia ODonoghue

Greece is still on high fire alert as temperatures are set to reach 40 degrees Celcius across the nation.

That’s despite the majority of wildfires, which started on Sunday, having been extinguished. 

The blazes left a trail of devastation, forcing thousands to be evacuated and leaving one woman dead. 

The ongoing extreme weather, coupled with strong winds has left authorities on high alert, especially around Athens, where firefighters are continuing to battle scattered fires.

In the hugely popular tourist destination, many people have raised concerns about the safety of visiting Greece while the potential for more fires remains so significant. 

The Greek prime minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has cut short his summer holidays to oversee emergency operations as a number of European nations provided assistance after the country activated the EU’s mutual civil protection mechanism.

Italy, France and Serbia have sent aircraft, while Spain, the Czech Republic and Romania are also sending further vehicles, personnel and aid.

Greece’s neighbour Türkiye is also preparing to send two aircraft as well as a helicopter.

There are now warnings that the crisis could be replicated across much of southern Europe due to extreme conditions. 

The UK’s Foreign Office (FCDO) has confirmed that there is “a high risk of wildfires during the summer season from April to October” in Greece, but it has not released any specific advice against travelling there. 

On the FCDO website, however, it warns that “wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. The situation can change quickly.” So it’s important to remain alert if you do decide to travel to Greece, and make sure you are aware of your travel insurance rights in case the worst happens. 

Across Europe, airlines and tour operators have said they are “monitoring the situation closely”.

On its website, Jet2 posted an update saying: “As it currently stands, Athens airport is still open and we are planning to operate our flights as planned. Please allow extra time for your journey to the airport, as there may be road closures in place.”

EasyJet holidays has weighed in too, saying: “We’re closely monitoring the situation in the Marathon area of Athens, and are working with our partners in the destination. We’d like to remind our customers currently in the area to continue following the guidance of their hotel and the local authorities.”

Ryanair also confirmed it’s operating as usual - and will follow guidance from local authorities and act accordingly. 

If your flight or accommodation is cancelled - and depending on how you booked your trip - refunds should be sought from the airline, accommodation provider or tour operator in the first instance.

Some insurance policies include trip disruption