Extreme temperatures arrived earlier than usual to Europe, with a vacancy of heat that is beating records in various regions. This phenomenon is worrying experts, authorities, and travelers who seek to know how to protect health and whether vacation plans should be changed to this summer in the face of extreme heat.
In June, the heat was so intense that it reached values normally recorded in July and August. Portugal was not left out of this reality, with 69 deaths above expected during the heat wave, according to official data, revealing the immediate impact of these extreme temperatures on public health, says Euronews.
France has experienced a similar situation, with temperatures to reach 40 ° C in Paris recently. The National Meteorology Agency has placed several regions on maximum red alert, while more than 1,300 schools partially or completely ended to protect students and staff staff.
In the French capital, the summit of the Eiffel Tower was closed, in a preventive measure to safeguard the security of visitors. Also in Greece, the thermometers rose beyond 40 ° C, forcing tourists in the Acropolis to use umbrellas and fans to relieve the discomfort caused by the Brazilian sun.
Holidays in southern Europe: Should you cancel or keep plans?
Given these temperatures, many question whether they should keep their holidays in southern Europe or look for alternatives. Climate and health experts, cited by the same source, recommend permanent attention to the notices of local authorities, before making any decision involving travel in extreme heat periods.
Travelers should also take into account their physical condition and possible pre-existing diseases, which may get worse with these high temperatures. In these cases, consulting the doctor before traveling is essential to ensure safety and well-being during the holidays.
Travel insurance copper extreme heat?
Travel insurance normally covers medical emergencies, unforeseen cancellations, loss or theft of goods. However, Jonathan Frankham, Director General of Travel Insurance World Nomads Europe, warns that heat vacancies are not always included in coverage unless there is a government warning not to travel.
Each case is evaluated individually, especially if there is medical recommendation to cancel the trip due to health -aggravated health problems. Some insurers offer supplements for meteorological coverage, but they should be hired before the trip starts.
When the airline cancels due to the climate
If it is the airline or travel agency canceling the trip due to extreme weather phenomena, the passenger is entitled to full reimbursement or a travel alternative, the same source says.
In exceptional cases, such as the fires in Rhodes in 2023, which affected 25000 tourists, even compensation paid by local governments came to exist.
The real risks of heat to health during the holidays
Heat waves pose serious risks, which go beyond habitual discomfort. They can cause exhaustion, insolation, heart attacks or strokes, especially in older people or chronic diseases.
In 2022, extreme temperatures caused about 70,000 excessive deaths in Europe, according to recent studies.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses originating from these problems, ensuring quick access to health care at destination. Some policies also compensate for interrupted trips due to heat -caused diseases, avoiding additional financial losses.
Advice to travel safely during heat vacancies
For those who decide to maintain their holidays, it is fundamental according to staying informed about local meteorology and always following the authorities’ guidelines. Avoiding outdoor activities in the hottest hours, wearing fresh clothes and drinking water regularly are simple measures that can prevent serious health problems.
If you have heart or respiratory problems, or if you are over 65, redouble care and adjust the hours of tourist visits, favoring mornings and late afternoon. Those who have not reserved their holidays can choose destinations in northern Europe or postpone for September or October, traditionally milder months.
How extreme climate can change the insurance sector in the future
Weather and Radar meteorologist Tamsin Green, cited by the same source, says new heat records are highly likely in the coming years as climate change intensifies. This scenario may force insurers to quickly adapt their roofs, as happened during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Jonathan Frankham points out that as extreme phenomena become more frequent, the insurance sector will have to evolve to better protect travelers.
Extreme heat cancellation products may arise in response to the real needs of those traveling in a world increasingly affected by the weather.
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