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Mon, 27 Jul 2026

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 How wildfires in France and Spain might affect your travel plans

For those who have upcoming holidays to the affected regions, here is what you should know about how it might impact your plans.
The UK government has issued a warning about wildfires in France and Spain, but has not specifically warned against travel to these countries. However, tourists are being advised to stay away from affected areas.
* More than 300,000 people have been forced to leave their homes due to the fires.
* Travel insurance policies may cover cancellation or curtailment if a policyholder's trip is disrupted by wildfires.
* However, only half of travel insurance policies include "catastrophe" cover, which may not provide coverage in case of wildfires. Impact on Travel Plans Travellers who have upcoming holidays to the affected regions are advised to: 1. Check their travel insurance policy to see if it includes trip disruption cover. 2. Follow instructions and updates from local authorities and emergency services at all times. 3. Contact their airline, tour operator, or accommodation provider for refunds or flexible booking options. Insurance Coverage Travel insurance policies may cover some of the resulting costs if a traveller's plans are disrupted by wildfires. However, only half of travel insurance policies include "catastrophe" cover, which may not provide coverage in case of wildfires. Current Situation
* Wildfires have caused mass evacuation and disruption in France and Spain.
* The UK government has issued a general warning about the high risk of wildfires in France during the summer season from April to October.
* The official French wildfire map gives Gironde and Pyrénées-Orientales its highest fire alert level, while Aude and Var have its second-highest alert level. Long-term Consequences The World Health Organization has reported a 57% increase in land burned by wildfires across Europe since summer 2022. Climate change is intensifying wildfires and increasing their frequency. Insurance firms are adapting to potential new and increasing risks involved in travel as a result. It is unlikely that insurance providers will change their policies in the near term. However, there may be changes to insurable destinations and premiums in the longer term.