Published on
August 16, 2025
Portugal, along with Spain and Greece, has been added to the UK’s urgent travel advisory list due to the escalating wildfire crisis sweeping through Southern Europe. Extreme heat and devastating blazes have ravaged popular tourist destinations, creating hazardous conditions for both locals and travelers. With wildfires burning across these countries, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) is urging UK citizens to stay informed and exercise caution when traveling to these affected regions. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe during this crisis.
As Southern Europe faces extreme temperatures and devastating wildfires, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued an urgent travel advisory for tourists heading to Spain, Portugal, and Greece. The widespread blazes have ravaged the landscapes of these popular holiday destinations, posing a significant threat to both residents and travelers.
The heatwaves that have swept across the region have sparked massive wildfires, particularly in Spain, Portugal, and Greece. These countries, which attract millions of visitors every year, are now grappling with unprecedented fire risks, affecting both urban and rural areas.
The travel advisory comes as a response to the growing number of active wildfires that are causing widespread disruptions. Wildfires have not only devastated local communities but have also led to significant flight disruptions, evacuations, and emergency responses.
Spain: A Nation Battling Uncontrolled Wildfires
Spain is experiencing some of the worst wildfires in recent years. According to Spain’s general director, there are currently 14 major wildfires raging across the country, fueled by extreme heat and dry conditions. The wildfires have consumed 158,000 hectares (610 square miles) of land, an area roughly the size of metropolitan London. The country’s national meteorological agency, AEMET, has issued extreme fire risk warnings across most of the country.
The Spanish authorities have declared a state of alert, and fire brigades are working tirelessly to control the blazes. AEMET has reported temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F) in several regions, and the heatwave is expected to last until the following Monday. Tourists are urged to stay updated with official warnings and avoid areas known for wildfire activity.
Key Advice for Travelers in Spain:
Be aware of your surroundings when visiting or driving through woodland areas.Never leave behind cigarette ends, and do not light barbecues or fires.Report fires immediately to emergency services by calling 112.Wildfires are common in Spain between April and October, and causing a fire, even unintentionally, is a criminal offense.
For real-time information on wildfire risks in Spain, travelers should consult the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET).
Portugal: Battling Major Fires Amid Extreme Heat
Portugal is also facing severe fire conditions, with nearly 4,000 firefighters working to control seven active blazes as of August 15. The country has been placed under a state of alert, and the government has requested assistance from the EU’s civil protection mechanism, which is a special firefighting force that can be called upon by European countries in need. The state of emergency is expected to continue through the weekend, as high temperatures and dry conditions persist.
The fires have caused major disruptions to local life, and several towns in Portugal have already been evacuated. Tourists are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the local fire risk index and follow safety guidelines set by the Portuguese authorities.
Key Advice for Travelers in Portugal:
Check the fire risk index for your location regularly.Familiarize yourself with local safety and emergency procedures to ensure a quick and effective response in case of fire.Follow the guidance of Portuguese authorities, including any evacuation notices.If you see a fire, call emergency services immediately at 112.Greece: Persistent Fires and Evacuations
Greece is also grappling with a high number of wildfires, particularly on the island of Chios, where a blaze has been burning uncontrollably for four consecutive days. The Greek fire service has deployed two water-dropping planes and two helicopters to combat the fire, but local authorities are on high alert as the situation evolves.
Over the past week, large fires have spread through western Greece, prompting additional evacuations, particularly in the areas surrounding Athens. The adverse weather conditions, including high winds, are expected to elevate the fire risk, further endangering both locals and tourists.
Key Advice for Travelers in Greece:
Register your mobile phone to receive emergency alerts, which will notify you of wildfires near your location.Avoid littering, particularly with glass bottles, which can contribute to the ignition of wildfires.Ensure cigarettes are properly extinguished and avoid lighting barbecues.Stay informed by checking official channels for updates on the fire risk and emergency protocols.The Urgent Travel Advisory for UK Tourists
The FCDO has updated its travel guidance for those planning holidays to Spain, Portugal, and Greece. The advice is aimed at helping UK tourists stay safe amidst the growing wildfire crisis. The FCDO strongly recommends that travelers:
Stay informed by monitoring local news and weather forecasts in affected regions.Avoid traveling to areas known to be at high risk for wildfires, including mountainous and woodland regions.Follow the advice of local authorities and evacuate the area immediately if advised to do so.
This advisory is particularly crucial as these three countries are among the most popular travel destinations for UK holidaymakers, especially during the summer months.
How Wildfires Are Impacting Tourism in Southern Europe
The ongoing wildfires are taking a heavy toll on tourism in Southern Europe. Apart from posing a direct risk to life and property, the wildfires are disrupting daily activities, including transportation, local services, and the availability of accommodations. Many flights have been canceled, and popular tourist attractions in affected regions have been closed for safety reasons.
The FCDO advisory is an essential resource for travelers, urging them to reconsider or delay their travel plans if visiting high-risk areas. Tourists who are already in the region are advised to stay up to date with local emergency services, avoid large crowds, and ensure they have an evacuation plan in place should the need arise.
Impact of the Fires on Local Communities and Businesses:Wildfires are displacing thousands of residents and forcing evacuations, particularly in rural areas.Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, are seeing cancellations and disruptions due to the fires.The broader economic impact includes rising firefighting and emergency costs, as well as lost revenue from tourism, which is a significant contributor to the economies of these countries.Special Safety Tips for Travelers
In addition to the general travel advice provided by the FCDO, travelers should take additional precautions to stay safe during their trips to Southern Europe. Here are some specific safety measures:
Fire Risk Awareness: Always check the fire risk level for the area you are staying in, and ensure that you know the nearest evacuation routes in case of a wildfire.Emergency Contacts: Make sure you have the local emergency number (112) saved in your phone for quick access in case of an emergency.Hydration and Sun Protection: Extreme heat can lead to dehydration and heatstroke. Carry plenty of water and wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the harsh sun.Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers emergency evacuation and cancellations due to natural disasters like wildfires.
Special Info:
Fire Risk Index: Check the fire risk index regularly (available in Portuguese and Spanish) for the latest updates on wildfire threats.Evacuation Procedures: Follow local evacuation plans, which may include road closures and airspace restrictions during severe wildfire events.Safety Precautions in Spain: In Spain, it is a criminal offense to unintentionally cause a wildfire, so tourists should take extra care when handling fire-related items, such as cigarette butts and barbecues.
Portugal has joined Spain and Greece in receiving an urgent travel advisory from the UK due to dangerous wildfires fueled by extreme heat. These wildfires have sparked widespread disruptions, threatening both local communities and travelers in popular European destinations.
The wildfires in Southern Europe are a reminder of the potential risks posed by extreme weather conditions during the summer months. Tourists should take every precaution to stay safe and follow the advice of local authorities. By staying informed and prepared, travelers can minimize their risk and ensure that their vacation remains safe, even amidst the crisis.
