Holidaymakers from Britain planning a trip to the Mediterranean are being cautioned about potential issues with the Entry & Exit System (EES) and the extreme heatwave forecasted to hit the region next week. However, another concern looms as the silver-cheeked pufferfish, known scientifically as Lagocephalus sceleratus and usually found in the Indian Ocean, has been spotted in the Mediterranean following its passage through the Suez Canal.
Travelers are being advised to stay vigilant while swimming, though the chances of encountering this pufferfish remain low. Recent incidents have highlighted the risks associated with these fish, with a Greek woman sustaining a bite from one near the Varkiza resort in Athens earlier this year.
Experts have noted that these attacks often occur when individuals attempt to touch or feed the fish, leading to potential injuries such as severed fingers or toes. In response, the Greek Red Cross has issued guidelines on how to handle injuries caused by the fish, emphasizing immediate medical attention, washing the wound with soap and water, and applying pressure to stop bleeding.
While underwater risks are a concern for swimmers, the soaring temperatures in Europe pose a significant threat from above. Countries like France have already taken steps to mitigate the heat impact, including banning alcohol at state-run events. Germany has issued heat warnings as temperatures are expected to rise into the high thirties, while Portugal, Italy, and Spain are preparing for intense heatwaves. Storm alerts have also been issued across the continent.
In the UK, temperatures are not projected to reach the extreme levels seen in other parts of Europe but could still peak around 38C, nearing the heatwave experienced in 2022. The United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber health heat alert for certain areas of England, including London. Tom Crabtree, Deputy Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, has warned of prolonged high temperatures, posing a challenge for people to recover from the heat stress due to consecutive nights with temperatures above 20°C.