The Foreign Office has updated travel advice for those heading to Spain and Greece as extreme temperatures spark serious health concerns for holidaymakers.
An urgent warning by the Foreign Office has been issued for people going to Spain and Greece during the heatwave.
Spain and Greece are currently experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 40C in many areas. This extreme weather condition has already caused wildfires to spread through several parts of Southern Europe, leading to evacuations and travel disruptions.
In light of the heatwave, the Foreign Office has issued an urgent warning to travellers heading to Spain and Greece. The advice includes important information about the respective weather services to follow while abroad, medical advice to observe in extreme heat, and resources to take note of if heading to the holiday hotspots in the near future.
The Foreign Office warns travellers to take care as the extreme conditions increase the risk of heatstroke, sunstroke, dehydration, and sun poisoning, among various other serious health conditions. Travelers visiting Spain and Greece are also advised to take breaks from the heat, stay in the shade, and drink plenty of water while avoiding alcohol during the extremely warm weather.
If you’re traveling to Spain, it’s important to keep track of the latest weather updates and follow the advice of local authorities. The Foreign Office has updated its advice for anyone heading to Spain, stating that extreme temperatures are currently affecting many areas of the country. For severe weather warnings and updates, travellers are advised to visit the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET) and the European Meteorological Services website.
The advisory also urges travellers to take care in the heat and to visit the NHS website for advice on how to cope with extreme temperatures. Before traveling, it’s important to check with your travel provider and follow any advice issued by local authorities during your visit to Spain.
Similar advice has been added to the Greece safety section on the Foreign Office website. The advisory states that extreme temperatures are currently affecting many areas of Greece, and travellers are advised to follow the advice below to stay up to date with the latest information and visit the NHS website for information on how to take care in the heat.
Travelers heading to Greece can also sign up for the Greek government’s Emergency Communication Service to receive emergency alerts prior to and during visits. The Foreign Office is also warning that there is a risk of travel disruption due to the heatwave, urging travellers to monitor local and international weather updates from the Greek Meteorological Service or European Meteorological Services, check with their travel provider, and follow the advice of local authorities at all times.
Tips for Coping in Hot Weather
To stay safe and well during extreme weather conditions, it’s important to take proactive measures to cope with the heat. The NHS website offers helpful tips on the best ways to cope with the heatwave, including:
- Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and fruit juice, and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Wear loose, lightweight clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day (11am-3pm) and keep windows and curtains closed to keep your home cool.
- Take cool baths or showers or use a damp towel or flannel to cool down.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities, and if you must exercise, do so during the cooler parts of the day.
- Look out for others, especially vulnerable people such as the elderly, young children, and those with underlying health conditions.
As you prepare for your trip to Spain or Greece, it’s important to keep in mind the severity of the heatwave and take precautions to stay safe and well. By following the advice of local authorities, monitoring weather updates, and taking proactive measures to cope with the heat, you can enjoy your travels while minimizing the risk of heat-related illnesses. Don’t forget to visit the NHS website for more information on how to cope with extreme temperatures and stay informed about the latest developments in these popular holiday destinations.