The popular holiday destination sees thousands of Britons arriving every summer seeking sunshine and hot weather, but the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has warned British visitors to watch out
Brits holidaying in Turkey are being warned to brace for scorching weather expected to hit the tourist hotspot of Antalya this week with highs of up to 37C predicted.
The popular holiday destination sees thousands of Britons arriving every summer seeking sunshine and hot weather, but the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has warned British visitors to watch out for potential dangers associated with extreme heat. “Extreme temperatures can affect many areas of Turkey over the summer months,” the FCO warned in its latest update.
British holidaymakers have been encouraged to drink plenty of water, ensure they do not spend too long in the sun and follow NHS guidance on how to cope in the extreme temperatures. But heat exhaustion and dehydration are not the only risks the roasting temperatures bring with them, the soaring mercury also massively increases the danger of wildfires, the Express reports. Turkey has seen 74 wildfires this year alone with approximately 12,910 hectares (31,900 acres) of land burned, according to the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS).
The most recent blaze left 11 people dead and dozens more hurt after a fire broke out on farmland in the Kurdish region of southeastern Turkey, spreading quickly and causing massive damage. The FCO warned: “Wildfires happen frequently in Turkey during summer.” Local news outlets and authorities are the best source of up-to-date information for holidaymakers, the government has advised. “You could get a fine or prison sentence for lighting a fire of any kind or discarding cigarettes in risk areas such as woodland. Barbecues are prohibited in these areas,” added the FCO.
“If there is a wildfire in your area, local authorities may tell you to leave your accommodation. Follow the directions of local authorities. If you see a wildfire, call emergency services on 112.” The unpredictable nature of wildfires means it is important for visitors to have proper travel insurance which will cover them in the event of a natural occurrence or disaster. This could help in the event your holiday is cut short or travel plans change. Any luggage or belongings lost or damaged can also be protected by travel insurance.