Irish holidaymakers wishing to go abroad to a select few countries are being advised by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to exercise a “high degree of caution” when travelling.
Recent heatwaves have led to outbreaks of wildfires across Spain. Currently, there is an alert for high temperatures across the country with most areas expected to exceed 40ºC once again. The Spanish government is also asking for “maximum precaution” to avoid forest fires.
People in Spain are being urged to Avoid throwing cigarettes, rubbish and, especially, glass bottles.
Wildfires and seismic activity in Portugal are also highlighted with the DFA saying: “The Regional Government of the Azores continues to report significant levels of seismic activity around São Jorge island which may indicate a risk of earthquakes or volcanic eruption.”
The DFA is advising tourists to monitor the news and to follow the instructions from local authorities in both countries in relation to wildfires and seismic activity.
According to the DFA, countries with a high degree of caution warning have additional risks such as serious crime and/or terrorism, specific targeting of foreigners, disease or extreme weather events.
Tourists travelling to Turkey, France, Italy, Greece, Germany, the United States and Great Britain are also advised to exercise a high degree of caution.
The DFA said: “Ensure that you are well informed and are aware of the risks before departure, and closely follow the advice and instructions of local authorities. You should be vigilant and take extra care planning your trip. Many Irish people safely visit countries with this rating each year, but we issue such a warning to draw your attention to risks which we have identified.”
More information can be found here.
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