Tuesday, July 1, 2025

As the 2025 summer heatwave intensifies, Spain, Italy, Portugal, France, Belgium, Austria, and Slovenia are experiencing record-breaking temperatures, affecting travel plans for tourists. With parts of southern Europe suffering from extreme heat exceeding 40°C and wildfires threatening to disrupt vacation hotspots, many travelers are now questioning their rights to cancel or change their trips.

Understanding the legal and practical implications of these heat-related disruptions is key for anyone planning to visit these high-temperature regions this summer.

Extreme Temperatures Across Southern Europe

In June 2025, Spain’s national weather agency, Aemet, reported a new heat record of 46°C in the town of El Granado near Seville, marking the highest temperature recorded in the country for June. Neighboring Portugal and southern France are also enduring temperatures well above 40°C, while Italy’s cities from Genoa to Sicily are experiencing similar heatwave conditions.

Regions that typically enjoy milder summer climates, such as Austria, Belgium, Hungary, and Slovenia, are also grappling with unusual heat, adding to the challenges for vacationers. Alongside the oppressive heat, wildfires have started to spread across parts of the Mediterranean, creating further concerns for tourists and locals alike.

Travel and Holiday Cancellations: What Does the Foreign Office Say?

Despite the extreme conditions, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has not issued any specific travel warnings for the affected countries. The FCDO continues to recommend following general travel advice, but it has not advised against travel to Spain, Portugal, Italy, or France. Historically, the FCDO does not issue “do not travel” advice during heatwaves, meaning there is no legal obligation for travel companies to offer cancellations due to the heat.

As a result, many travelers are left navigating the terms and conditions of their travel packages. Travel agencies and airlines have confirmed that standard cancellation and refund policies will apply, even in the face of extreme heat.

Can You Cancel Your Trip Due to the Heat?

Under the Package Travel Regulations (2018), travelers have the right to cancel a trip without penalty only if “unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances” significantly impact the destination. However, extreme temperatures alone typically do not meet this threshold, and unless official government advisories make travel impossible, cancellations are unlikely to be granted.

In cases where wildfires or other natural disasters cause significant disruption to travel plans, travelers may have more leeway to cancel their trips. As of now, there has been no widespread disruption to holiday services, and many companies are continuing operations as usual.

Health Concerns and Travel Insurance

Travelers with pre-existing health conditions exacerbated by heat, such as respiratory or heart problems, may be eligible for cancellation under their travel insurance policies, provided that specific medical advice is given to avoid travel. It’s important for travelers to review their insurance details to ensure that heat-related issues are covered.

Additionally, extreme heat often brings thunderstorms, which can cause flight delays or cancellations. Passengers experiencing such disruptions are entitled to compensation under European air passenger rights regulations. Airlines must provide accommodation and meals in case of significant delays or cancellations caused by severe weather conditions.

Air Travel Disruptions

The heatwave’s impact on air travel is already being felt in several European airports. High temperatures and the increased risk of thunderstorms can delay flights, as airports may be temporarily closed or rerouted to avoid dangerous weather conditions. Travelers should expect delays or diversions, especially in regions affected by extreme weather.

European Union regulations require airlines to provide support, including accommodation and meals, for stranded passengers when cancellations occur due to weather-related issues, such as lightning or heat-induced disruptions.

What Should Travelers Do?

With the heatwave continuing to affect Spain, Italy, Portugal, and other European destinations, travelers should stay updated on local weather reports and official travel advisories. For those planning to travel, it’s advisable to regularly check with airlines and tour operators regarding potential disruptions or changes to their schedules.

Travelers with health concerns related to heat should consult their doctor before traveling and consider revising their plans if their insurance policy permits cancellation. Ensuring that travel insurance covers heat-related risks can also provide peace of mind during these exceptionally hot months.

Conclusion

The ongoing heatwave across southern and central Europe in 2025 is having significant implications for holidaymakers. While cancellations due to extreme heat alone are unlikely to be covered, travelers should be prepared for potential disruptions caused by wildfires or thunderstorms. By staying informed, checking travel insurance policies, and monitoring updates from airlines, vacationers can minimize the impact of the heatwave on their trips.

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