Greece Fires Spread Across Several Tourist Areas
Wildfires northwest of Athens were easing on 4 August, but hundreds of firefighters remained alert for renewed outbreaks across western Attica. Separate fires were reported in Boeotia and Kefalonia, while the recent blaze near Rethymno in Crete was brought under control after evacuations. Two crew members died when firefighting helicopters collided near Psatha. Strong winds and rugged terrain had complicated efforts to contain the flames.
Latest Greece Wildfire Travel Update
- Areas recently affected: Western Attica, Boeotia, Kefalonia and Rethymno in Crete
- UK travel advice: No general warning against visiting Greece
- Airport status: Athens, Heraklion and Chania remain open
- Flight operations: Most services are running as scheduled
- Official alerts: Follow @112Greece and keep mobile emergency notifications enabled
- Emergency number: 112
The UK Foreign Office advises visitors to follow instructions issued by Greek emergency services and leave immediately when an evacuation is ordered. Anyone in immediate danger should call 112. Smoke and local road closures can affect individual resorts even when flights continue, so guests should contact their accommodation or holiday company directly if conditions change near their destination.
Before departure, travellers should check their flight through the airline app or airport departures page. Hotels and tour operators can confirm whether accommodation remains open and whether airport transfers are still operating. Phones should stay connected to a mobile network after arrival, as Greece’s 112 system sends location-based warnings about nearby fires, evacuation zones and other urgent safety measures.
Cancelling solely because of concern is likely to trigger the booking’s usual cancellation charges if the flight and accommodation remain available. Refund rights may change when an airline or organiser cancels, a hotel becomes unusable or authorities order an evacuation. Travellers should speak to the provider before purchasing replacements, then check whether their insurance covers disruption or voluntary cancellation.