As deadly wildfires blaze across Croatia, is it safe to travel there?
With wildfires breaking out across Europe and six people dead plus dozens injured in Croatia, many are wondering if it is safe to travel to the country this summer.
The fires have now spread to the Dubrovnik region, which is very popular with tourists, where 95 firefighters and two planes are battling the flames.
Greece has been particularly badly hit, with evacuations in Rhodes and Corfu, while in Italy, the island of Sicily has been ‘brought to its knees’ by power cuts caused by the intense heat.
The wildfires have also spread to Portugal, where a National Park near Lisbon is ablaze, and even many of those who are thankfully not in the path of the fires are reporting it is too hot to leave their air-conditioned hotels.
The spread is being caused by the intense heat from the Cerberus and Charon heatwaves, which has seen temperatures soaring into the 40s.
So for those who are due to head to Croatia – or thinking about a last-minute European break – is the country safe to visit?
Here is what you need to know.
Is it safe to travel to Croatia?
The Foreign Office has not issued any warnings against travel to Croatia, so trips are going ahead as planned.
But the situation is fast-moving so this can change at any time.
The Foreign Office does caution that ‘fires are common during Croatia’s hot and dry summers’.
Those who do decide to visit need to be aware there is a ban on outdoor fires during the summer, and on barbecues outside of designated areas.
Vistors are asked to be especially careful not to leave rubbish – particularly empty bottles – behind, as these are known to start fires.
The official advice adds that ‘flash floods can occur with very little warning and can lead to dangerous water flows and disruption to transport and other networks. You should keep a close eye on weather forecasts.’
Can I get a refund on my Croatia holiday?
If you choose not to travel because of the weather – and the Foreign Office is not advising against trips – there is no guarantee you’ll get your money back. But if you are worried, it is worth discussing with your airline or tour operator to see if there is anything they can offer.
Airlines and tour operators are not under any obligation to refund you if you cancel a trip due to factors beyond their control.
However, if they decide to cancel your flight or holiday, then you will be offered options.
Most insurance policy claims will only pay out on a trip cancellation under certain circumstances, such as illness, a family bereavement or an exceptionally long delay in travel.
That said, if you have a medical condition and travelling to the region would now be a health risk, you may be able to claim a refund under the terms of your insurance policy.
MORE : Map reveals path of ‘nightmare’ Greece wildfires as terrified holidaymakers flee Corfu and Rhodes
MORE : Scientists give damning verdict on Europe’s catastrophic heatwave: ‘Tens of thousands will die’
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