UK tourists travelling to Italy warned over 'dangerous and unpredictable' threat

Brits travelling to Italy have been warned over a "dangerous and unpredictable" threat.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has warned Brits regarding the possible risk of travelling to Italy this spring and summer due to increased volcanic activity and wildfires. "There are several active volcanoes in southern Italy. National emergency planning has been updated for Vesuvius as well as the Phlegraean fields, an area that remains active and which has experienced tremors in 2024," it warned. Mount Etna, the highest volcano in Europe west of the Caucasus, last erupted in November 2023.

The most recent seismic activity in the Phlegraean area was on May 20, where the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology reported an 4.4 magnitude event. Italy's Civil Protection Department stated: "At the moment there are no reports of people involved but some injuries to the buildings and the fall of some rubble have been found."

Mount Vesuvius seen from above Sorrento

Several regions of Italy experienced devastating wildfires last year, with the worst fires appearing in Palermo and Sicily. Four elderly people died as a result of wildfires in the southern island of Sicily and coastal city of Reggio Calabria. According to a report published by the European Commission, the 2023 wildfire season in Europe was among the worst this century.

"Forest fires are a risk during the extended summer months. They are highly dangerous and unpredictable," added the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. "Check the latest alerts and weather forecast and follow advice of local authorities if you’re considering travelling to affected areas.

Ariel view of an Italian coastline during summer

When entering Italy (and all Schengen countries), individuals' passports must have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date they arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 will only be valid for 10 years, but for any passports issues before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if individuals renewed a passport early. Passports must also have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after visitors' planned leave date.

The UK Foreign Office updated its guidance on May 21 and is directing tourists to the Civil Protection Department website, where it has shared advice on what you should do in the case of volcanic activity or wildfires.