Wildfires threaten campsites in Europe
Wildfires are ongoing in France, Spain and Italy, affecting campsites. In France, more than 12,000 people have been evacuated, including tourists from six campsites near Bordeaux. Two firefighters died. In Spain, fire destroyed 32,000 hectares near Madrid; in Italy, over 100 people were evacuated in Sicily.
Recommendations for travellers
- Check the situation: Use government portals, foreign ministry, FR-Alert system, and monitoring services EFFIS, DWD and NASA FIRMS.
- Insurance: Kfz-Haftpflicht covers only third-party damage; Teilkasko or Vollkasko covers your own vehicle. Personal belongings are often not covered by standard Hausrat; Inhaltsversicherung is needed. Private liability (at least 15 million euros) protects against consequences of careless fire handling.
- Evacuation: Carry at least 3–4 litres of water per person per day, a charged phone with powerbank, documents and an FFP2 mask.
- Refunds: Possible only with official evacuation or campsite closure.
In the Landes and Gironde departments (southwest France), the highest, fifth level of fire danger is in effect.