Extreme weather risks for tourism in the European Union

Abstract

With mounting evidence of extreme weather events, it is increasingly important to understand the risks that thunderstorms, extreme precipitation, and wildfires pose to tourism. This study investigates the past occurrence of these phenomena in Europe, analyses recent trends, and evaluates them in relation to the dependency on tourism. The Tourism Exposure Index is developed to assess these risks, comprising two sub-indices: the Hazard Index and the Tourism Dependency Index. Results reveal a spatial concentration of regions with high/very-high tourism exposure, particularly in southern Europe and around the Mediterranean Sea. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the spatial distribution of weather extremes with highly disruptive potential. It is concluded that at-risk regions should develop weather hazard adaptation plans for tourism.