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Wildfires in France and Spain prompt warnings as travelers plan trips
The UK government says access to affected French areas may be restricted with roads possibly closing at short notice, and further evacuations could occur.
Wildfires disrupting parts of France and Spain have led officials to warn some visitors to avoid affected regions, with impacts including mass evacuation and travel plan uncertainty, according to BBC Business.
In France, Sophie Brocas, prefect of the department of Gironde, urged tourists to stay away while advising those already there to consider alternative destinations. The UK government has not issued a blanket travel ban for France or Spain, but it advises caution, saying access to affected areas may be restricted, roads may close at short notice, and further evacuations may take place.
The UK government also highlights a high wildfire risk during summer season in France from April to October, advising travelers to follow instructions and updates from local authorities and emergency services. BBC Business also notes that in Spain, authorities declared a national emergency due to wildfires in parts of Madrid and Ávila, with reports of additional inland fires.
For travelers who have booked trips, BBC Business cites a travel insurance expert at Defaqto, who says coverage for cancellation or curtailment may apply if disruptions happen after booking. She also said travelers may be covered for additional travel and accommodation costs if their insurer offers that type of cover or if they paid to include it, depending on the circumstances.