Wildfires force 300,000 to flee as French official begs tourists to stay away

More than 300,000 people have been forced from their homes as wildfires rage across France and Spain, with many sleeping in sports halls and temporary shelters. In the French department of Gironde, where flames have scorched over 42,000 hectares and destroyed some 240 homes, the local prefect issued a stark plea to holidaymakers. “I urge tourists not to come,” said Sophie Brocas on Sunday, advising those already in the area to consider an alternative destination. The UK government has stopped short of issuing a formal travel warning to either country, but it urges caution. It warns that access to affected areas may be restricted, roads may close at short notice, and further evacuations could take place. A general advisory notes the high risk of wildfires in France from April to October. In Spain, authorities have declared a national emergency for parts of Madrid and Ávila, where additional blazes are reported. Travellers caught in the crisis should follow instructions from local authorities and can call 112 for emergency help. The government’s advice can change rapidly, and Anna-Marie Duthie, travel insurance expert at Defaqto, says that if official guidance shifts after a trip is booked, policyholders “may be covered for cancellation or curtailment.” She adds that disruption caused by a catastrophic event may also trigger cover for extra travel and accommodation costs, depending on the policy. Tourists heading to the affected regions should check their insurance terms before departure.