FCO updates its Spain advice

Environment Posted on 03/07/2012

The FCO (Foreign and Commonwealth Office) has published warnings of two extensive forest fires in the Valencia province of Spain. Although there are currently no travel restrictions in place, over three thousand locals and visitors have been evacuated from the popular tourist destination. That said, the Spanish emergency services have advised that most people in the area are not in danger.

Flights to Valencia Airport remain unaffected despite the fact the blazes are reported to be the worst in Eastern Spain for over ten years. As result it is not necessary for British holiday-goers to cancel your trip, although you should check with your airline before travelling and observe advice from local authorities.

The first fire broke out on Thursday 28 June in Cortes de Palla and the second on Saturday 1 July in Andilla; together they have smothered much of Valencia in clouds of smoke. Reports state that 45,000 hectares of land, 20 municipalities have been touched by the flames and 14 motorways shut due to impaired visibility by the smoke. Travellers intending to drive in Valencia are urged to check local advice and road closure updates before getting behind the wheel.

The Civil Protection service has announced a Level two emergency, which automatically triggers nationwide support for the region. The Spanish authorities are acting to control the flames and over 900 soldiers were mobilised over the weekend to tame the blazes. Nonetheless, according to an official from the UME (Spanish Military Disaster Relief Unit) "it's rather difficult to handle the situation," due to high temperatures and changeable winds.

For updates in English from the Spanish airport authority you should check the aena-aeropuertos website.

FCO travel advice for Spain can be accessed via their website.

In brief : Environment