July 2025 brought an extreme heat wave to Europe, causing widespread wildfires, evacuations and record temperatures. Find out what's happening in Crete, which countries were hit hardest and how to protect yourself when travelling to hot Europe

July 2025 was a real test for Europe. An abnormal heat wave swept through dozens of regions, causing mass fires, evacuations and the first victims. The situation was most acute in Greece, where forest fires swept through the island of Crete, with more than 1,500 people evacuated.

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Forest fire in Crete: a tourist paradise under fire

On July 2, 2025, a large-scale fire broke out in the south of Crete, near the city of Ierapetra, which has not yet been fully brought under control. Due to strong gusts of wind (up to 8 points on the Beaufort scale), the fire spread to several villages and tourist areas, including Agia Fotia, Fermo, Koutsounari and Achlia.

As a result:

- More than 1,500 people were evacuated, including tourists;

- Some vacationers were rescued from the beaches by boats;

- Private homes and rental properties have been destroyed;

- Power outages in many areas;

- Visibility is limited due to thick smoke, which has even reached coastal resorts;

- Smoke victims are receiving treatment, hospitals are on high alert.

Greece battles fires every year - but this time the situation is critical

Summer fires are nothing new for Greece. However, climate change, which leads to prolonged droughts and strong winds, makes each new season more dangerous. Just two years ago, the fires in Rhodes caused the largest evacuation in the country's history.

The Greek government has not yet canceled trips to Crete, but tourists are urged to follow the authorities' instructions, monitor the news and be prepared to evacuate.

Europe on fire: heatwave hits dozens of countries

The wildfires in Greece are just part of a wider climate crisis that has gripped Europe since early July 2025.

France

- Temperatures in Paris reached +40°C, forcing hundreds of schools to close;

- Access to the top of the Eiffel Tower has been restricted;

- Authorities warn of the risks of heatstroke and the dangers for people with chronic diseases.

Italy

- Two deaths related to heatstroke have been recorded;

- Many regions have introduced a "red level" of alert, especially for the elderly.

Spain

- The city of El Granada recorded a record +46°C on June 29;

- Local authorities have restricted access to open spaces in the middle of the day.

The United Kingdom, Germany, and Turkey are also struggling with abnormal temperatures. In particular, in Izmir, more than 50,000 people were evacuated due to large-scale fires.

Tips for travelers during extreme heat

If you are planning a trip to Europe in July-August 2025, consider the real risks associated with heat and fires.

Here are some tips:

- Check local warnings: each country has a notification system (for example, via SMS or civil protection applications);

- Have health insurance that covers heatstroke and evacuation - in EU countries this is critical;

- Do not ignore official instructions - even if there is a beach and sun nearby, fires can change the situation in a matter of minutes;

- Avoid traveling during midday hours, wear hats, drink water and avoid alcohol;

- If you are traveling by car, have a supply of water, gasoline, a charged phone, and an action plan in case of closed roads or evacuation.

Should you cancel your trip to Europe?

Currently, official travel cancellation warnings are issued only in specific areas – to individual regions or forested areas. But it is important to understand: the summer of 2025 in Europe will not be ordinary.

If you are planning a vacation in Greece, Italy, or Spain:

- Choose resorts away from the risk zone (for example, northern Crete instead of southern Crete);

- Check the news regularly – the situation can change daily;

- Choose tour operators with flexible cancellation or rescheduling conditions.

Europe is increasingly facing climate disasters – and the summer of 2025 is a clear confirmation of this. Tourists should not only enjoy the sun, but also plan their vacation responsibly, taking into account climate change, health risks, and the need to respond quickly to emergencies.

Planning a trip or moving abroad? A travel insurance policy is an important component of a successful trip, as it guarantees high-quality medical care anywhere in the world and can protect you from unnecessary expenses during your trip.

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Reminder! Does travel insurance cover earthquakes? Can you cancel a trip due to increased seismic activity? We have already told you what tourists should do in the event of a natural disaster in Europe, what insurance says and when you can expect compensation.

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