The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for Spain and Greece; Britons warned about soaring temperatures.
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As holidaymakers head to Greek and Spanish hotspots, temperatures are soaring in Europe right now, reaching nearly 50°C in some places. Recently, communities in six seaside regions near Athens have had to be evacuated due to the threat of wildfires.
Many locations in Greece have been experiencing temperatures hovering at 40C, and temperatures in the southeast European country are forecast to climb further later this week and into the weekend.
The UK Foreign Office has updated its advice on travel to Greece:
“Extreme temperatures are currently affecting many areas of Greece. You can register at the Greek government’s Emergency Community Service to receive emergency alerts”
The advice for Spain has been updated to read:
“Extreme temperatures are currently affecting many areas of Spain. For severe weather warnings and updates, visit the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET) and European Meteorological Services website.
“For information on how to take care in the heat visit the NHS website or the website of the Spanish Ministry of Health (only available in Spanish).
“You should check with your travel provider before traveling and follow the advice of local authorities at all times.”
Regions in Turkey including Hatay, Mersin, and Çanakkale, are currently struggling with devastating wildfires caused by the heatwave. The fires continue to spread.
Tips: Dealing with a heatwave
Stay hydrated
You already know this, but drinking water is vital to staying hydrated. However, during a hotter-than-usual heatwave, your body will lose vital minerals needed to absorb water: sodium, potassium and magnesium. Imbibing electrolytes can replace these vital minerals and help maintain hydration.
Stay away from alcohol and coffee
Alcohol and coffee may be comforting but may get in the way of staying hydrated. That’s because these are diuretics and are the culprits for removing fluids from your blood resulting in faster dehydration.
Conversely, consuming sports drinks, salty crips, sweets and any food with high water content such as melon and cucumber can help. Of course, keep on drinking plenty of water.
Clothes
Choose natural fabrics and light colours as these keep you cooler. Synthetics trap heat, bacteria and odour and you will end up feeling hotter.
Top tip: Incidentally covering up with the right fabrics can keep you cooler than wearing less.
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