Greece Issues Urgent Warning To UK Tourists As Wildfires, Earthquakes, And Floods Threaten Popular Summer Destinations Including Crete, Evia, And The Peloponnese

Greece has issued urgent warnings to UK tourists planning trips between April and October, highlighting a sharp rise in wildfire outbreaks, flooding, and seismic activity across major tourist destinations including Crete, Evia, Kythira, the Peloponnese, and parts of western and central Greece. As seasonal risks intensify, travelers are being strongly advised by the UK Foreign Office and Greek authorities to activate emergency alerts on their smartphones, follow official guidance, and stay prepared for potential evacuations. With natural disasters already disrupting holidays in recent years, officials stress that early awareness and real-time communication are now essential for a safe travel experience in the country’s high-risk zones.

Greece Warns Tourists as Wildfires, Earthquakes, and Floods Continue to Threaten Popular Destinations from Crete to Evia

Greece, long revered for its idyllic islands, archaeological wonders, and sun-soaked beaches, has increasingly found itself in the crosshairs of natural disasters. In recent years, wildfires, earthquakes, and flash floods have caused significant damage to both rural and tourist-heavy areas across the country—prompting international advisories and heightening safety concerns among visitors.

For British holidaymakers and travelers from across Europe, Greece remains one of the most beloved summer destinations. However, the country’s geographical vulnerability—combined with intensifying climate patterns—has led to a rise in extreme weather events, particularly between April and October, which is also peak tourism season.

Heightened Risk Prompts Official Travel Advice

In response to these escalating risks, the UK Foreign Office has issued updated travel guidance for those planning to visit Greece, especially during the warmer months. Tourists are now strongly urged to take safety precautions before and during their travels, particularly in regions that are frequently impacted by wildfires or seismic activity.

This advice is not merely precautionary. In 2023 and 2024, several major fires scorched popular islands like Rhodes, Corfu, and Crete, forcing emergency evacuations and stranding thousands of holidaymakers. Similarly, mainland areas including central and western Greece, the Peloponnese, and the islands of Evia and Kythira have seen recurring threats—causing widespread damage and stretching local emergency resources.

Recognizing the unpredictable nature of such events, the Greek government, in coordination with international agencies, has reinforced its disaster communication infrastructure. As part of this effort, all tourists are advised to enroll in Greece’s Emergency Communication Service, which provides real-time alerts directly to mobile devices in the event of a crisis.

How to Set Up Emergency Alerts on Your Phone

Accessing this system is relatively straightforward, and it could prove life-saving in critical situations. Tourists can activate the alert function directly from their smartphones before or during their stay in Greece.

For iPhone users, the process involves going to the Settings app, selecting Notifications, then scrolling to the bottom to enable Emergency Alerts.
On Android phones, users should go to Settings > Notifications > Advanced Settings > Wireless Emergency Alerts.
Samsung users may need to follow a slightly different path: Settings > Apps > Messages > Notifications > Emergency Notifications, and then toggle on the alert option.

Once enabled, this system allows local authorities to send push notifications in the event of wildfires, earthquakes, floods, or evacuation orders. These alerts often contain guidance on safety measures, road closures, shelter locations, and emergency contact numbers.

Key Regions to Watch: Crete, Evia, Kythira, Peloponnese

While all parts of Greece can potentially be affected by natural hazards, the Foreign Office has singled out several areas where tourists should exercise increased caution. These include:

• Crete: The island’s mountainous terrain and dry climate make it especially susceptible to summer wildfires. Major blazes in recent years have damaged rural villages and interrupted air and ferry travel.
• Evia: One of the most affected regions in the country, Evia has suffered extensive wildfire damage in back-to-back years. In 2021, more than 100,000 hectares burned.
• Kythira: Although smaller and lesser known, the island’s exposure to high temperatures and forested areas has made it a target for sudden fires.
• Peloponnese: The southern peninsula has seen both large-scale fires and seismic events, particularly in coastal and hilly areas.

Travelers planning stays in or near these regions should not only activate their emergency alerts but also familiarize themselves with evacuation routes and nearby emergency facilities.

Emergency Response: Who to Call and What to Do

In any emergency situation while in Greece, tourists are instructed to dial 112, the country’s national emergency number. Operators can communicate in English and other European languages, and they will connect callers to the appropriate service—whether it’s fire, police, or medical assistance.

Tourists should also stay in regular communication with their airline or travel provider, especially during wildfire season, as flights may be delayed, rerouted, or canceled without prior notice. If necessary, tour companies and embassies may assist with relocation or repatriation procedures.

Those with pre-existing medical conditions, elderly travelers, or families with young children are advised to keep essential medications and documents within easy reach in case a quick evacuation becomes necessary.

Be Prepared, Not Alarmed

Though the risks are real and evolving, tourism in Greece continues to thrive—largely due to improved planning, greater transparency, and robust emergency infrastructure now in place. Visitors are not being discouraged from traveling but rather being reminded to travel smart, stay informed, and remain adaptable in case of sudden environmental shifts.

Simple steps like activating emergency notifications, monitoring local news, and obeying evacuation instructions can go a long way in ensuring safety. Tourists should also consider travel insurance policies that cover natural disaster-related interruptions or cancellations.

As the climate continues to shift and Mediterranean countries like Greece face longer dry seasons and more erratic weather, preparedness is no longer optional—it’s a critical part of modern travel.

Final Word

Greece is warning UK tourists of heightened risks from wildfires, earthquakes, and floods across top travel destinations through October, urging visitors to activate emergency alerts and follow safety guidance during their stay.

Whether you’re exploring the ruins of Delphi, sunbathing in Crete, hiking in the Peloponnese, or enjoying the beaches of Evia, understanding Greece’s natural risks and being ready to act can ensure a safe, memorable holiday. Stay connected, stay informed, and let common sense be your guide when enjoying one of Europe’s most extraordinary destinations.

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