Holidaymakers planning a trip to Austria have been issued an urgent travel warning by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) after severe floods hit the eastern regions of the country.
The floods have caused widespread disruptions and devastation in several central European countries.
The FCDO advised: “Due to floods in the East of Austria, road closures and disruptions to public transport may occur in affected areas.
“Check road traffic information and public transport updates from Austrian railways and Vienna public transport before you travel.”
Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) also issued a statement, warning travellers to expect deviations and delays in train services from Friday, September 13 to Thursday, September 19.
They urged passengers to postpone non-urgent journeys and to stay updated on service disruptions through the ÖBB website and SCOTTY app.
The floods are affecting transport across the region, including in and around Vienna, where tourists frequently visit for its world-renowned architecture, classical music scene, and rich coffee culture.
Britons heading to Austria are being urged to check for updates on road and railway conditions before departing and to consult the FCDO’s latest guidance on travel insurance, health, and safety.
Austria, a favourite among British tourists for its Alpine landscapes and mesmerizing lakes, is currently dealing with adverse weather conditions that could severely disrupt travel itineraries.
Those travelling to affected areas are encouraged to stay informed through local sources and consider delaying non-essential trips.
In addition to flood-related travel issues, the FCDO has also reminded holidaymakers about upcoming changes to the EU Entry/Exit System (EES), set to launch in November 2024.
The new system will require non-EU nationals, including Britons, to have their fingerprints and photos taken when entering the Schengen area.
This process is expected to cause longer border queues, especially for travellers entering the Schengen zone through major points like Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone, and St Pancras International.
Britons were recently issued a separate travel warning regarding Africa, where cases of a “life-threatening” disease have increased in certain tourist destinations.
As always, the FCDO encourages travellers to check its up-to-date guidance on any country they plan to visit, ensuring they are aware of entry requirements, health risks, and any potential disruptions.
For those planning a trip to Austria, it’s crucial to remain updated on the flood situation and any related transportation issues to avoid major disruptions and ensure a safe journey.