Wildfires rage across Europe: which tourist countries have become epicentres of the elements
Inhaltsübersicht
Forest fires spoil the plans of tourists in some regions of Europe. The fires are raging and have already caused human casualties. Find out which countries are facing this problem and what the situation is like there now
Recently, Europe has been facing devastating wildfires caused by high temperatures, strong winds and prolonged drought. This natural disaster is having a serious impact on many popular tourist destinations, including Spain, Croatia and Greece, where firefighters are fighting an unequal battle against the fire. Here is a report on the situation in these countries by The Independent.
Forest fires in Europe
There is an increased risk of forest fires in various regions of Southern Europe. Firefighters near the Greek-Bulgarian border are battling blazes that are engulfing low-growing vegetation and require air support to extinguish the flames, according to a recent report from the EU's European Wildfire Information System.
Elsewhere in western continental Europe, firefighters in Spain are also battling wildfires in the face of extreme heat. In particular, hundreds of firefighters are using aerial divers to tackle two wildfires that started on Tuesday in eastern Spain.
Spain
In Spain, forest fires have reached catastrophic proportions. Temperatures in some regions are rising to 43-44 degrees Celsius, creating ideal conditions for the emergence and spread of fire. Firefighters are using a variety of firefighting techniques, including excavators to create fire barriers and aerial firefighting aircraft to extinguish fires from the air.
Despite these efforts, the situation remains critical and authorities are urging local residents and tourists to exercise extreme caution.
The AEMET meteorological service reported that the Barcelona-Fabra observatory in the northeastern region of Catalonia recorded a record high temperature of 40 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, breaking the previous record of 39.8 degrees set in July 1982.
Croatia
In Croatia, forest fires are also raging, covering more and more areas. Firefighting units are working in an intensified mode, using modern equipment and aircraft. One of the rescuers was injured in the fight against the fire, which underscores the danger and complexity of the current situation.
The authorities strongly advise tourists to avoid visiting the forests and follow the instructions of the emergency services.
Visit Ukraine on social media: Telegram | YouTube | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok
Greece
Greece, famous for its picturesque landscapes and popular tourist destinations, has also been hit by devastating wildfires. In some regions of the country, firefighters are tirelessly fighting the blazes using all available equipment and resources.
High temperatures and strong winds contribute to the rapid spread of fires, which creates additional challenges for rescue services and the local population.
North Macedonia
In North Macedonia, there have also been cases of forest fires that threaten settlements and natural attractions. Firefighting units are working in an intensified mode to localise and extinguish the fires.
According to local authorities, 66 fires broke out overnight on Wednesday. Roads, fields and houses were covered in smoke near the central town of Stip, 100 kilometres from the capital Skopje. Earlier in the week, dozens of houses were burned down and an elderly man was killed in the fires.
Important to know
When travelling abroad, you should always take care of your safety. When it comes to Ukrainians travelling abroad, it is important for them to be sure that they will be able to count on medical care in the host country. To get a full guarantee, we advise you to take out travel insurance, which will allow you to count on assistance throughout the European Union.
We remind you! Due to numerous problems in air traffic control services and flight cancellations, your holiday may be at risk. Read more about possible problems here.
Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.
Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip:
Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;
Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;
Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;
Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;
Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.
© 2018-2024, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.
All rights reserved.
Recommended articles
2 min
InsuranceWhen will travel insurance not cover your medical expenses?
Responsible tourists always buy an insurance policy before embarking on a new trip. However, even the most expensive insurance will not be able to cover absolutely all expenses. Learn more about the cases when travel insurance won't help you
27 Jul. 2024
More details2 min
TravelThe greatness and beauty of the Ukrainian Carpathians attracts thousands of tourists, because a vacation here is a good opportunity to rest and regain strength. Find out how much it costs to travel to Bukovel, Yaremche and Verkhovyna in 2024 and what to see
29 Jul. 2024
More details2 min
TravelIncredible lakes of Ukraine: where should tourists visit in August?
Synevyr, Svityaz, Nesamovyte... - surely every Ukrainian has heard these names. But these lakes are also worth seeing, because August is the perfect time for travel. Find out in the article which 5 lakes of Ukraine are worth visiting for tourists who admire picturesque landscapes.
02 Aug. 2024
More details2 min
TravelIn the first half of 2024, Ukraine's tourism industry brought in more taxes than in pre-war 2021. Find out what records the sector broke, how much it cost, and which industries brought in the most money
02 Aug. 2024
More details