Heat Waves in Europe Pose Growing Danger for Travelers

By Ivan PetrenkoJul 3, 2024 16:30 PMNews
Share:
Woman on the street on the heat wave
Woman on the street on the heat wave. Source: Photo by pawel szvmanski on Unsplash

Travelers accustomed to high temperatures may still find Europe's recent heat waves challenging. Europe's sweltering summers, driven by the climate crisis, are increasingly affecting tourist patterns. Record heatwaves and wildfires in hotter Mediterranean regions have shifted interest toward more temperate destinations. Recent heat-related incidents in Greece, including the disappearance of British TV personality Michael Mosley, underscore this trend.

 

The travel industry and tourists must adapt to these climate impacts, particularly in southern European countries heavily reliant on tourism revenue. For instance, tourism contributes nearly 20% to Greece's economy and 10% to Italy's. With extreme weather events becoming more frequent, travelers are opting for destinations like the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, and Denmark over traditional Mediterranean hotspots.

 

The ongoing heat waves have emphasized the immediate reality of the climate crisis. Roo Clark, a tourist on the Greek island of Skyros, noted that discussions about climate change are now commonplace among travelers. Authorities in Greece have repeatedly warned tourists about the dangers of intense heat, especially during midday. Activities are being rescheduled to cooler times of the day, such as early morning or evening.

 

This shift in travel patterns has significant implications for economies dependent on tourism. Eduardo Santander, CEO of the European Travel Commission, pointed out that while concerns about climate change impact travel decisions, these concerns often fade when planning future trips. Nonetheless, the influence of extreme weather on travel habits is undeniable.

 

Heat is not the only climate change effect impacting tourism. Warmer conditions are expanding the range of disease-transmitting mosquitoes in Europe. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported an increase in mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and West Nile virus. Rising temperatures and low winds exacerbate these issues, as seen with high mosquito activity during a heat wave on Skyros.

 

Last summer's record-breaking temperatures were fueled by a combination of human-caused climate change and the natural El Niño phenomenon. This trend of increasing global temperatures is expected to continue, leading to more frequent and severe extreme weather events. Rebecca Carter from the World Resources Institute emphasized the need for the travel industry to adapt, suggesting more flexible booking policies to account for unpredictable extreme heat events.

 

Planning is crucial for tourists facing potential heat waves. Sidiropoulos from Trekking Hellas advises visitors to plan their activities carefully and still explore Greece's natural and cultural beauty, despite the heat. As climate change continues to impact travel, both tourists and the industry must adapt to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences.

Top Articles
Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Feb 14, 2025 15:00 PM

Top Tips for Securing Your Luggage and Preventing Loss

Feb 7, 2025 14:00 PM

Your Guide to Hand Luggage and Baggage Rules

Feb 4, 2025 20:00 PM
More News
Seating area inside Dublin Airport lounge overlooking runway with international aircraft in view

Dublin Airport Broadens Global Reach for Summer 2025

Mar 29, 2025 13:43 PM
A passenger taps their card at a train station ticket barrier using contactless payment

Ticket Office Cuts Raise Travel Concerns

Mar 29, 2025 11:27 AM

Brussels Airlines Unveils Refined Inflight Dining

Mar 29, 2025 09:36 AM

Southern Italy Rail Upgrades to Disrupt Travel

Mar 29, 2025 07:41 AM
flydubai aircraft on runway with mountain backdrop

flydubai Restores Pisa Flights Ahead of Summer

Mar 29, 2025 05:29 AM
Man participating in a public protest or demonstration, facing another person in conversation

Easter Travel at Risk Amid Heathrow PRM Staff Strike

Mar 29, 2025 03:34 AM
Silhouettes of travellers waiting at an airport terminal during sunset

Edinburgh Airport Unveils Passenger-Focused Upgrades for Summer

Mar 28, 2025 23:42 PM
A quiet British railway station with footbridge and empty platforms on a cloudy day

Historic Rail Celebrations Unlock New Travel Routes Across the UK

Mar 28, 2025 20:38 PM
Tail fins of Iberia aircraft parked at Madrid-Barajas Airport on a clear day

Airline Alliance Expands Travel Options Between Spain and Argentina

Mar 28, 2025 18:24 PM

Benidorm Reinvents Itself as Eco-Friendly Holiday Destination

Mar 28, 2025 16:43 PM

Air France Adds Hotel-Style Bedding to Business Class for Long-Haul Flights

Mar 28, 2025 14:37 PM
Passengers at London King’s Cross station beside LNER and other trains under a large arched roof

LNER Opens Advance Ticket Sales for Summer 2025 Travel Across the UK

Mar 28, 2025 12:26 PM
Jet2holidays airplane flying low over a coastal road near a populated area with parked vehicles and scenic green hills

Jet2 Adds Norway Fjord Trips from Newcastle and Leeds Bradford

Mar 28, 2025 10:50 AM
Dark storm clouds forming in the sky before heavy rainfall

Polar Vortex Raises Storm Risk for UK Travelers

Mar 28, 2025 02:41 AM
easyJet aircraft parked at airport gate on a sunny day

easyJet Expands Inflight Services for Summer Travellers

Mar 28, 2025 00:39 AM

Delays Expected on Northern Italy Rail Routes

Mar 27, 2025 22:45 PM

Jet2 Opening New Travel Horizons With Expanded Winter 2025/26 Routes from Newcastle

Mar 27, 2025 20:28 PM
People walking along a historic street in central Torino at sunset

Torino Opens to Travelers as 2025 European Capital of Smart Tourism

Mar 27, 2025 18:33 PM
Ryanair plane landing at sunset at Manchester Airport

Manchester Expands African Flight Options

Mar 27, 2025 16:46 PM
Young woman using smartphone at a European train station

Interrail Booking Becomes Effortless with New Digital System

Mar 27, 2025 14:29 PM
Emirates A380 aircraft taxiing at Sydney Airport during sunset

Emirates Marks 25 Years with Enhanced Sydney Travel

Mar 27, 2025 12:31 PM
A First Class train operated by Transport for Wales approaching a station through a residential area

Michelin-Level Dining on Welsh Rails

Mar 27, 2025 10:44 AM

Travel Disruptions Expected as Helsinki Airport Protest Approaches

Mar 27, 2025 08:27 AM

Heavy Fog Disrupts Transport in Southern England

Mar 27, 2025 06:32 AM
Airplane with Star Alliance livery parked at gate at the airport

Star Alliance and ÖBB Partner to Boost Train-Flight Integration

Mar 26, 2025 23:37 PM
Dark railway tunnel with visible train tracks leading to a lit station exit

Weekend Rail Works to Disrupt Derbyshire Routes

Mar 26, 2025 21:41 PM