Foreign Office warns UK tourists in Greece, Cyprus, Turkey 'you face prison sentence'

Holidaymakers jetting off to Cyprus, Greece or Turkey from the UK have been issued a "red alert" over the rising temperatures as the heatwave hits a staggering 44C. Brits heading abroad have been warned after four tourists died on Greek islands in recent days.

The Hellenic National Meteorological Service released a weather warned earlier this week, which stated: "On Friday (14-6-2024) the temperature will drop in the west, central and north, but in the rest of the areas it will remain at very high levels, while from the afternoon hours a change in weather is expected in northern Greece with thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds."

"In the northern mainland the maximum temperature will reach 34 to 36 degrees and in central Macedonia 37 degrees Celsius, while its minimum values will range around 24 to 26 degrees Celsius. In the rest of the mainland the maximum temperature will reach 36 to 38 degrees, in the interior of Sterea, Thessaly and Peloponnese 39 degrees Celsius, while the minimum values will range around 25 to 27 degrees."

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"In the island country the maximum temperature will reach 34 to 36 degrees and in the islands of the eastern Aegean, the Dodecanese and the interior of Crete 37 to 39 and possibly 40 degrees Celsius while its minimum values will range around 27 to 28 degrees Celsius.

"It is noted that over the weekend across the country, the temperature will drop by six to eight degrees and return to normal levels for the season. At the same time, strengthened northerly winds will prevail." As well as the mercury skyrocketing in Greece, Cyprus is experiencing wildfires and has seen 39C highs.

The Department of Meteorology in Cyprus has issued an "extreme maximum weather warning" and added: "Take action, extreme high temperatures are expected. Protect yourself and support vulnerable people. Act on advice given by authorities. Expect possible infrastructural breakdowns."

In Turkey, there are yet more fires - and the mercury could hit a staggering 45C. The Foreign Office warns: "Wildfires happen frequently in Turkey during summer. You could get a fine or prison sentence for lighting a fire of any kind or discarding cigarettes in risk areas such as woodland. Barbecues are prohibited in these areas.

"If there is a wildfire in your area, local authorities may tell you to leave your accommodation. Follow the directions of local authorities. If you see a wildfire, call emergency services on 112." It adds: "There are active wildfires across Greece, including in populated areas on the mainland and a number of islands.

"Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. The situation can change quickly. Follow “112 Greece” on X (formerly known as Twitter) for official updates." On Cyprus, it adds: "Forest fires and wildfires often occur during the summer months due to dry and hot weather.

"Wildfires are dangerous and unpredictable. Take care when visiting or driving through woodland areas. Put out cigarette ends properly, and do not light barbecues outside of designated areas. If you see a fire, call the emergency services on 112 or 1407."