Wildfires have been raging all week.
The Department of Foreign Affairs has said it has been in contact with a number of Irish citizens impacted by the wildfire in Rhodes.
Reports suggest that around 19,000 people have been evacuated by either land or sea from the affected areas of the Greek island, as fires continue to spread in the areas of Kiotari, Lardos, Pefko, Lindos, Massari, Malonas Apollona, Laermon and Lardos.
There are reportedly around 700 Irish tourists on the island, mostly on the northern part, away from the fires.
Extensive property damage and road closures have been a direct cause of the fires so far and multiple airlines have cancelled flights to the island.
DFA’s advice to Irish tourists
In a statement, the DFA said: “Irish citizens should stay away from the affected areas and move rapidly out of any areas affected. This is an evolving situation; comply with evacuation orders and follow instructions from the emergency service, police and local authorities.
“Stay fully informed of what is going on by monitoring local news and social media.”
Tourists have been advised to also call the Greek Emergency Services on 112 if they are in immediate danger and to turn their mobile phones on to roaming, to receive any alerts from local authorities.
“Temporary shelters have been established by the authorities in Greece for tourists who have had to evacuate their hotels. Citizens should contact their tour operator or agency for information on arrangements and flights.
“Anyone in need of consular assistance can call the Embassy of Ireland in Greece on +30 2107232771 or the Honorary Consulate of Ireland in Rhodes on +30 2241075655. If in Ireland, the Department of Foreign Affairs HQ can be contacted on 01 4082527.
“If citizens are planning to travel to Rhodes, it is important prior to travel that they check with their travel operator or agency, or their hotel, to see if the area they plan to visit is impacted by the current wildfires and evacuations. There is likely to be travel disruption. The Department is advising against travel to the affected areas.”
A number of Irish citizens are currently impacted by the fires in Rhodes, Greece. People should consider the important travel advice at the link below. Irish citizens in Rhodes should call the Greek Emergency Services on 112 if they are in immediate dangerhttps://t.co/bpEtN4HhHP
— Irish Foreign Ministry (@dfatirl) July 23, 2023
Wildfires rage on in Rhodes for almost a week
The island has been battling wildfires since Tuesday as Europe is gripped by a dangerous heatwave, which has seen temperatures rise into the 40s.
TUI airlines have cancelled all outbound flights to Rhodes from Ireland up to an including Tuesday, July 25 and passengers will receive full refunds.
However, Ryanair say their flights to and from Rhodes Airport are currently operating as normal and unaffected by the fires.
No injuries or deaths have yet been reported by Greek authorities.
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