Forest fires in Italy: holidaymakers evacuated – risks for travelers!

Forest fires in Italy: holidaymakers evacuated – risks for travelers!

Numerous forest fires have recently broken out in Italy, primarily affecting the popular holiday regions of Tuscany, Sardinia, Apulia and Basilicata. Several dramatic incidents have already been reported in these regions, affecting both holidaymakers and residents. The campsite near Castiglione della Pescaia was particularly badly affected, where around 600 holidaymakers had to be evacuated. Fortunately, there were no injuries and the fire brigade and the army were able to bring the situation under control with the support of fire-fighting helicopters.

The forest fires were particularly severe in Tuscany. According to reports, the fires raged near Rocchette, which led to, among other things, evacuations in prominent circles. Fortunately, the fire brigade has now been able to put out the worst of the fire near Castiglione della Pescaia and the situation has stabilized again. In Sardinia, however, air traffic was temporarily restricted as flights had to be diverted to Costa Smeralda Airport in Olbia, but the situation there is now largely under control and roads and air traffic have returned to normal.

Travel advice and safety

It is important for travelers to inform themselves about the current situation before departure, especially about possible restrictions due to wildfires, extreme heat and drought. The Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA) provides up-to-date information on drought warnings. Travelers should also note that on package holidays it is possible, under certain circumstances, to withdraw from the contract free of charge if there are forest fires in the immediate vicinity.

Different cancellation conditions await individual travelers. They must find out about the current regulations directly from their provider. In case of possible problems during the stay, it is important to know that a contract can be terminated in certain cases if the return is prevented by exceptional circumstances. In such cases, the organizer is obliged to provide accommodation for a maximum of three days.

Rules of conduct during forest fire season

To minimize the risk of forest fires, travelers are advised to adhere to some important rules of conduct. This includes not lighting fires in the forest, only barbecuing in designated areas and not throwing cigarettes out of the car. The police also provide instructions and information about route closures and visibility impairments caused by smoke, which travelers should definitely follow.

In Apulia, large fires that raged near Otranto were also contained. Regional roads may remain partially closed, while ferry services to Corfu have not been restricted. However, travelers should prepare for power interruptions and possible evacuations from campsites and hotels.

Tour operators and the Federal Foreign Office are also available to provide up-to-date information and provide valuable information on the affected regions and safety precautions. If you are informed in good time, you can continue to enjoy your holiday in Italy safely and relaxed.

For more information about the forest fires in Italy, click on the articles at Mercury and ADAC.