Several popular Greek islands are experiencing severe water shortages - with serious consequences for British holidaymakers

Greece is currently sweltering, as the popular holiday destination is hit with its first heatwave of 2026. Millions flock to the spot every year to bask in the sunshine, enjoy the dreamy beaches and tuck into authentic Greek cuisine. Sir Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, released in cinemas on July 17, is expected to bring in a wave of jetsetters too. But seven popular Greek islands are currently facing water shortages and have declared a state of emergency. While the sparkling Mediterranean sea isn't running dry, taps certainly are – and it could seriously affect holidaymakers this summer. Tourists walking the streets of Astypalaia, the Greek island struggling the most with recent water shortages Some hoteliers are bringing in initiatives to cut back on the use of water tanks (pictured)At the moment, Astypalaia, located in the southeastern Aegean, has been worst hit. 'If we collected all the water dropped throughout the year in a bucket or in a washbowl, it would be 2.5 centimeters deep,' said mayor Nikos Komineas, the Independent reported.Bottled water is heavily relied upon in Astypalaia, and the island's reservoir, located in the agricultural valley of Livadi, is currently experiencing a severe drought.Some hotels have implemented methods to save water. Hotelier Maria Alkalai is offering €5 vouchers to guests who opt out of the daily cleaning service, stating: 'Clients have embraced it'. Other affected islands include Tinos, Alonissos, Leros, Patmos, Symi and Karpathos.For holidaymakers heading to one of the affected locations this summer, your trip might look slightly different than usual.Water pressure may feel low during peak usage times, such as in the evening when many will be getting ready to go out, Time Out reports. Some hotels in coastal areas are also opting to fill up pools with seawater, instead of freshwater, and usage might also be restricted, as some local authorities are capping non-essential water use. Other affected islands include Tinos, Alonissos (pictured), Leros, Patmos, Symi and KarpathosNick Parkhouse, travel insurance expert at Go.Compare, has urged holidaymakers to check local travel advice before jetting off to affected destinations. He said: 'Water shortages in Greece shouldn't automatically put travellers off, but they are a reminder to check both local travel advice and your insurance policy before you go.'In most cases, popular tourist destinations have contingency plans in place to help minimise disruption, although visitors may experience measures such as water usage restrictions or reduced pressure during periods of high demand.'Most travel insurance policies won't cover cancellations relating to water shortages. Mr Parkhouse warned: 'Cancellation only usually applies for unforeseen events, not something you knew about before you departed.'Insurance also won't cover you if you simply decide you don't want to travel.'He continued: 'If a water shortage escalates to the point where the FCDO advises against travel and you haven't yet departed, cancellation cover might apply - but only if you bought your policy before the shortage was widely reported. 'Always read your policy carefully and understand what protection you have before you travel.' Pictured: The depleting water reservoir on popular island AstypalaiaThe National Centre For Scientific Research Demokritos, in Athens, has warned the drought could get worse by 2049. Concerns have also been raised about whether there will be enough rain next year to support the hordes of tourists that Greece attracts.The UK Foreign Office hasn't issued any advice regarding the water shortages on the Greek islands, but it does highlight the risk of wildfires in Greece.'There is a high risk of wildfires during the summer season from April to October,' it reads. 'For advice, visit the wildfires section on the Safety and Security page.'