Attention holidaymakers: travel warnings for seven Mediterranean countries!

Attention holidaymakers: travel warnings for seven Mediterranean countries!

The Foreign Office today issued a comprehensive travel warning for seven Mediterranean countries, pointing out various dangers. Greece, Italy, Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, Syria and Libya are particularly affected. At a time when extremes such as heat waves and droughts are increasing, travelers should be well informed and exercise caution, especially in regions affected by these weather phenomena.

Heat waves are expected in Greece in the summer of 2025, with temperatures reaching over 40 degrees Celsius. The Foreign Office recommends staying out of direct sunlight and avoiding crowded places. Particular caution is required for particularly vulnerable groups such as babies, children, seniors and people with chronic illnesses. Travelers should stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and wear light, light-colored clothing in the heat. It is also advisable to take a charged cell phone and a power bank with you. There is also the possibility of earthquakes, as a magnitude 6.1 earthquake was recorded near Crete, after which a tsunami warning was triggered. This represents an additional risk factor that vacationers should be aware of.

Water shortage in Italy

Italy is facing water shortages and drought in many regions, especially in central and southern Italy. The current situation is so serious that a high level of drought alert has been imposed in Sicily. The weather is monitored via the MeteoAlarm platform, which provides up-to-date information on weather warnings. Travelers in the country should inform themselves about possible restrictions and temporary road closures.

Warnings for Egypt, Israel and Lebanon

Shortly before the summer travel wave starts, there are also partial travel warnings for Egypt, Israel and Lebanon due to the threat of terrorism in these areas. German citizens who are staying there are asked to leave the country. Travel is particularly risky in Egypt, and especially in the north of the Sinai Peninsula and in the border areas with Libya and Sudan. In Israel, it is not recommended to visit the Gaza Strip, the West Bank and the northern areas. In Lebanon, stays in the south of the country, in the Bekaa Valley and in areas bordering Syria are just as dangerous.

Advance warnings for Syria and Libya

Additional travel warnings apply to Syria and Libya, where extreme risks such as the threat of terrorism, kidnappings and homicides exist. The German embassy in Syria is closed, severely limiting consular support. Travelers to Libya are advised to leave the country immediately.

With summer approaching, it is advisable to regularly check the current weather conditions. The forecasts point to a possible “hellish summer of 2025” in southern Europe. Travelers in affected regions should definitely inform themselves well in advance about their holiday plans and adhere to the advice given. The website Meteoalarm.org provides useful information about possible dangers and weather events in Europe.