Wildfires continue to rage in Croatia during one of the country’s worst-ever years for blazes.
Around 500 people, including British tourists, have evacuated Brac island in Croatia following a major wildfire, which broke out on 10 September.
Tourists may have heightened travel concerns after boats were sent out to rescue those trapped on the island, including speedboats, fishing boats, and boats belonging to the Croatian navy and port authorities.
Here’s the latest travel advice for Croatia, plus all the key questions and answers.
Where are the wildfires in Croatia?
According to data from the Copernicus Emergency Management Service, more than 3,000 hectares of Brač island, southeast of the mainland city of Split, have been affected by the wildfire.
The major fire spread rapidly from near the village of Ložišćeunder on the western side of the island, with 223 firefighters and 69 fire vehicles deployed to fight the fire, said the European Union.
What is UK government travel advice?
As of 16 September, the UK Foreign Office (FCDO) has not issued any specific travel advice regarding the wildfires in Croatia.
General wildfire advice from the FCDO warns that wildfires are common during Croatia’s hot and dry summers.
“They can be highly dangerous and unpredictable. The situation can change quickly. Take care when visiting or driving through woodland and forest areas,” said the FCDO.
Travellers are advised to follow local authorities’ advice or call Croatian emergency services if they are in or near an area affected by wildfires.
Holidaymakers can also be fined up to €20,000 (£17,145) for unintentionally starting a wildfire by leaving litter, lighting barbecues and not properly extinguishing cigarette ends.
Will my flight get cancelled?
Brac airport currently operates around seven seasonal flights each week with regular domestic connections to Zagreb on Croatia Airlines. It is operating departures and arrivals largely as scheduled.
The island’s nearest mainland airport, Split, is operating flights without delays as of Wednesday morning.
However, travellers should prepare for potential flight delays and cancellations as the wildfires continue.
Can I cancel my holiday?
As the FCDO has not warned against travel to Croatia, there are no exceptional grounds for cancelling a trip and receiving a full refund. The conditions for cancelling your trip will depend on your holiday provider, so it’s best to contact them if you’re looking to postpone.
Some travel insurance policies include natural disaster cover for an event that prevents you from reaching your holiday destination. Check with your insurer to understand your options.
Read more: Britons escape as Croatia wildfire tears through holiday island
