Britons travelling to Europe have been told to sign up for emergency alerts as the country is gripped by “extreme heat” and wildfires.
The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for Spain and Greece, with Britons warned of travel disruption as temperatures soar.
It comes after thousands were evacuated from at least six seaside communities near Athens after their homes were threatened by wildfires.
Much of Greece has been baking in near 40C conditions as a heatwave grips the continent, with temperatures in the southeast European country forecast to climb further later this week and into the weekend.
“Extreme temperatures are currently affecting many areas of Greece,” the guidance says. “You can register on the Greek government’s Emergency Communication Service to receive emergency alerts.”
Travellers are also advised to monitor local and international weather updates from the Greek Meteorological Service or European Meteorological Services, check conditions with their travel provider and follow the advice of local authorities at all times.
There is also a chance that the extreme weather conditions could disrupt travel, the Foreign Office added.
The advice for Spain has been updated to read: “Extreme temperatures are currently affecting many areas of Spain. For severe weather warnings and updates, visit the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET) and European Meteorological Services website.
“For information on how to take care in the heat visit the NHS website or the website of the Spanish Ministry of Health (only available in Spanish).
“You should check with your travel provider before traveling and follow the advice of local authorities at all times.”
Officials in Greece issued the six evacuation orders on Monday morning as strong gusts of up to 70kph (45mph) whipped the wildfire closer to resort towns.
The army, police special forces and volunteer rescuers freed retirees from their homes, rescued horses from a stable, and helped monks flee a monastery threatened by the flames.
Last night water-dropping planes and helicopters tackled the flames near Lagonisi, some 40 km (25 miles) southeast of the capital.
Flames burn an olive grove in Lagonisi, near Athens on Monday, one of several holiday zones under evacuation orders because of a raging wildfire
( EPA/YANNIS KOLESIDIS)
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