Important warning: Danger of earthquakes when traveling to Italy and Greece!

Important warning: Danger of earthquakes when traveling to Italy and Greece!

In its current travel advice, the Federal Foreign Office has warned of the risk of earthquakes in Italy and Greece. In Italy, there are references to “earthquakes, some of them severe,” whose frequency has increased. Despite these risks, there are currently no specific travel warnings or advisories based on current events. However, travelers are strongly recommended to register in the ELEFAND crisis preparedness list in order to be better informed and supported in the event of an emergency BR.de reported.

It is particularly important that holidaymakers prepare for possible earthquakes. The Helmholtz Center for Georesearch (GFZ) has published rules of conduct in the event of an earthquake. While staying indoors under sturdy furniture or door frames has been proven to be safe, it is advised not to simply leave the building. Keeping a distance from windows is also advisable to protect yourself from flying glass fragments. You should also avoid stairwells and elevators.

Correct behavior outdoors and in the car

If you are outdoors or in a car, look for large, open areas. You should keep your distance from trees, street lamps, buildings and bridges. If you are driving, it is advisable to pull over to the side of the road and remain seated, while bridges and ramps should not be driven on after an earthquake. Vacationers on the coast in particular are urged to flee inland to high-altitude areas in the event of an earthquake to protect themselves from the risk of a tsunami.

According to the consumer advice center, holidaymakers who have booked a package holiday can withdraw from the contract or cancel the trip in the event of significant disruption. However, since there are currently no formal warnings for Greece and Italy, travelers do not have an immediate right to cancel.

High risk of earthquakes in Istanbul

The risk of earthquakes is not only limited to Italy and Greece, but also affects Istanbul and its surroundings. The Foreign Office is also warning here due to the North Anatolian Fault Zone. An earthquake of magnitude 7 or stronger is expected to occur in the coming years. However, predicting such earthquakes is not possible and the advance warning time is only about three seconds, according to the website German Consulate General is emphasized.

Some recommendations are made to prepare for earthquakes in Istanbul: renting earthquake-proof apartments is advisable, as is securing furniture and knowing emergency exits. Emergency luggage should be provided so that you can react quickly in an emergency.

During an earthquake, it is important to remain calm and seek shelter. Buildings should not be evacuated during the quake unless you are near an exterior door. Even after an earthquake, certain behavior must be adhered to, such as checking gas, water and electricity pipes and checking for damage in the living space.

Important telephone numbers have been set up for emergencies in Istanbul: The emergency number is 112, the fire department can be reached on 110, and for natural disasters the coordination center is available on 444 2 566. Travelers are also advised that the Consulate General is ready to provide assistance depending on the circumstances and that registration on the ELEFAND list is recommended.