Wildfires are no longer rare or remote. Once seen as localised disasters, they now shape global travel patterns and pose real health and safety risks for millions. From the Mediterranean to the Americas, fires are reaching popular destinations, often with little warning.
Climate change is driving longer, more intense fire seasons. Droughts are more severe and frequent. Human activity, from land clearing to careless tourism, is adding fuel.
These aren’t isolated events. They’re part of a broader shift that’s disrupting travel on every continent. For travellers, the impact is twofold: immediate disruption and long-term risk. Flights are cancelled and roads closed. Cities become cloaked in smoke. Resorts evacuated overnight. Even distant fires can affect air quality and trigger health alerts.
This isn’t just about inconvenience; it’s about safety. Heat, smoke and stress combine to create a hidden layer of risk, particularly for vulnerable travellers. The elderly, children and those with health conditions are especially at risk. And as extreme weather becomes more common, destinations once considered safe may no longer be.
As wildfire seasons expand across Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, Africa and Asia-Pacific, so too must our awareness. Travel now demands more than a packed suitcase and a passport. It requires preparation, flexibility and a clear understanding of the risks. Knowing when and where fires are likely, what to do if caught in one and how to stay healthy in smoky conditions is essential for anyone on the move in today’s climate reality.
