Wildfires in Spain and France have forced more than 300,000 people to flee their homes, many ending up in sports halls and temporary shelters. It's not exactly the holiday vibe you were hoping for.

Sophie Brocas, prefect of the French department of Gironde, made it crystal clear on Sunday: "I urge tourists not to come." For those already there, she suggested considering an alternative destination. Subtlety is not her strong suit.

The UK government hasn't issued a formal travel ban to either country, but it advises caution. In France, it warns that access to affected areas may be restricted and roads may close at short notice - because nothing says "relaxing getaway" like a sudden evacuation.

If you're in an affected area or planning to go, the UK government recommends following instructions from local authorities and emergency services. For emergencies, call 112. And remember: government advice can change faster than a dry forest can ignite.

Anna-Marie Duthie, travel insurance expert at Defaqto, says if the government changes its advice after you've booked, you might be covered for cancellation or curtailment. You might also be covered for extra travel and accommodation costs if your insurer offers that or you paid extra. Check your policy - because reading fine print is always fun.

Currently, parts of Gironde and Landes in southwestern France are affected. France's official wildfire map gives Gironde and Pyrénées-Orientales its highest alert level, while Aude and Var are at the second highest. As of Monday, over 20 fires are burning across the country, including on Corsica. Spain has declared a national emergency for wildfires in parts of Madrid and Ávila, with reports of fires in other inland areas.

If your travel plans go up in smoke - literally - Chris Bose of the Association of British Insurers says your policy might cover some costs if it includes trip disruption cover. But only half of travel insurance policies have "catastrophe" cover, according to Defaqto. So there's a 50% chance you're on your own.

If your flight is cancelled, Duthie says the airline should offer a rebooking or full refund. For package holidays, that refund should cover flights, accommodation, and transfers. But if you booked everything separately, you'll need to haggle with each provider individually. Good luck.

Rory Boland of Which? Travel warns against cancelling too early. Since the UK hasn't advised against travel, insurance firms won't cover "disinclination to travel." Wait until closer to departure to see if the holiday can go ahead or if the tour operator offers flexible options.

According to the World Health Organization, the amount of land burned by wildfires across Europe has increased by 57% since summer 2022, and climate change is intensifying them. Duthie says insurers are adapting to new risks, but for now, definitions of "severe weather" vary. Longer term, we might see fewer insurable destinations and higher premiums. So enjoy that vacation while you still can - if you can get there.