Updated Travel Advisory for Brits Visiting Turkey Amid Wildfire Risks

The UK Foreign Office has recently revised its travel advice for British citizens planning to visit Turkey this summer, primarily due to concerns about wildfires. The advisory comes in light of recent forest fires near Izmir, which led to the grounding of flights at Adnan Menderes Airport and left numerous tourists stranded as the fires spread through coastal regions. Travelers are specifically cautioned against igniting fires or discarding cigarettes in high-risk areas during their stay.

According to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), wildfires are a common occurrence in Turkey during the summer months, and violating local fire regulations can result in severe penalties, including fines or imprisonment. It’s emphasized that visitors should look for warnings regarding fire restrictions in places like wooded areas. In the event of a wildfire, tourists should follow the advice of local authorities, who may instruct them to evacuate their lodgings. The FCDO has also provided an emergency contact number, urging anyone who witnesses a wildfire to report it immediately.

Recently, evacuations took place in the tourist location of Foça, triggered by a significant wildfire that was exacerbated by strong winds. Authorities arrested a local resident who allegedly started the blaze intentionally using gasoline, leading to serious legal allegations. Images from the scene depicted heroic efforts by firefighters battling the flames, with a significant deployment of personnel, equipment, and aerial support to combat the devastation.

As southern Europe experiences a surge in temperatures, reaching 35°C in Turkey recently and projected to stay around 30°C, the FCDO has reiterated the dangers posed by extreme heat conditions, particularly those conducive to wildfires. Other parts of Europe, such as Portugal and Spain, have seen temperatures surpass 40°C, while Greece has maintained temperatures above 30°C.