Greece is a hit holiday destination with many Britons yet some tourists have been forced to flee their hotels this weekend after wildfires ravaged the area. Those in accommodation and campsites around the Elafonisos area, in the Pelaponessus, were evacuated as the official notice was given. Authorities have confirmed there is “increased dcicil protection” amid the raging flames, and urged travellers to be “very careful.” The FCO updated its guidelines for Brits travelling to Greece today and listed the most affected areas where the red alert is present.
These are: Region of Attica (including the island of Kythera)
Region of Central Greece (eastern Boeotia, central and southern Euboea)
Peloponnese (Messinia, Corinth, Argolis, Arcadia, eastern Laconia)
Region of Western Greece (Achaia, Ilia)
The FCO added: “Forest fires often occur during the summer months across Greece due to the dry and hot weather.
“Forest fires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. Take care when visiting or driving through woodland areas.
“Make sure cigarette ends are properly extinguished, and don’t light barbecues.
“Causing a forest fire is treated as a criminal offence in Greece even if unintentional.
“If you see a forest fire, call the emergency services on 112.”
Meanwhile, the General Secretariat for Civil Protection flagged how during the fire season the burning of the fields is prohibited.
In the event of a fire, citizens are urged to notify the Fire Service at 199.
Elafonisos is a small Greek island between the Peloponnese and Kythira, and one of the lesser known holiday resorts.
It lies off the coast of Cape Malea and Vatika and boasts a host of exotic sandy beaches.
The port town coastline is lined with seafood tavernas and holiday rentals, while camping is allowed on some of its beaches.
Yesterday, Express.co.uk reported how Britons travelling to any part of Greece will be required to bring additional travel documents with them after the UK leaves the EU as part of the Brexit process, on October 31.