**UK Foreign Office Issues Fresh Guidance as Earthquakes Rattle Greece and Turkey**
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its advice to British travellers following two significant earthquakes that struck Greece and Turkey late last night. The seismic activity has underscored well-established risks in the eastern Mediterranean, a region historically prone to tectonic unrest.
Casualties have been reported after tremors were felt shortly after midnight off the Greek island of Rhodes, with shockwaves later reverberating in southwestern Turkey. Local authorities in Marmaris stated that a 14-year-old girl lost her life, while at least 69 people sustained injuries. Many of the injured reportedly jumped from buildings in panic as hotels and apartments shook in the predawn hours.
Holidaymakers in both countries described alarming scenes, with some recounting how entire hotel structures swayed during the quakes. The tourist season is underway in both Greece and Turkey, and the incidents have raised concerns among the thousands of Britons travelling or planning to travel to the area.
TUI, one of Europe’s largest travel operators, has issued an alert to customers in the affected zones, urging them to remain calm and attentive to instructions from local officials. The FCDO’s standing advice for visitors to Greece and Turkey has been reiterated, highlighting the importance of familiarising oneself with earthquake protocols and being prepared for aftershocks.
For those heading to Greece, the Foreign Office notes that the country routinely experiences earthquakes and minor tremors. Its current advisory reminds tourists that while increased activity was noted earlier in the year around the Cycladic islands—including Santorini, Anafi, Ios, and Amorgos—the situation has eased, and tourism has resumed as normal. Nevertheless, officials urge caution, advising all travellers to learn what to do in the event of an earthquake and to heed all local advice without hesitation.
The risk in Turkey also remains significant. According to the FCDO, quakes in the region may be powerful enough to damage buildings and infrastructure, posing clear dangers to life. The recent seismic event in the Sea of Marmara was strongly felt as far away as Istanbul, prompting reminders about the potential for aftershocks. Travellers are recommended to stay informed through Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), which provides real-time updates on seismic activity in the country.
Authorities in both nations recommend that all tourists keep their mobile phones equipped with emergency alert capabilities. For iPhone users, this can be enabled via the device’s notification settings. Android and Samsung handsets have similar functions to ensure tourists receive lifesaving updates in real-time.
Beyond immediate safety protocols, the situation highlights the wider importance of risk awareness when travelling in seismically active regions. Commentators suggest that preparation and ongoing vigilance are key, especially as the Mediterranean tourist season gathers momentum. The FCDO’s guidance extends to general earthquake preparedness, such as identifying safe zones within accommodation, carrying essential supplies, and keeping emergency numbers readily accessible.
As aftershocks remain a possibility in the days ahead, British officials urge travellers to Turkey and Greece not to panic but to remain alert and well-informed. They also encourage communication with tour operators and accommodation providers, who are often best placed to offer location-specific advice and support.
All tourists currently in or heading to the region are advised to check government websites and register their travel plans with foreign offices where possible. By staying vigilant, following official guidance, and responding calmly, travellers can mitigate the risks posed by unpredictable natural events such as earthquakes.