In July 2025, Greece, Türkiye and Cyprus experienced one of the most devastating months of wildfires in recent years, fueled in Greece by a record heatwave above 45C, drought, and strong winds.
Main Findings:
Regional wildfire differences:
Turkey and Greece face large-scale wildfires exacerbated by tourist density and fire-prone landscapes. Turkey risks are concentrated in coastal and inland forested areas, while Greece faces challenges in densely populated islands and Attica suburbs. Cyprus, due to its size, is more reliant on aerial support for large fires.
Climate influence on fire weather:
In today’s climate (1.3°C warmer than pre-industrial levels), extreme fire conditions are five to ten times more likely and 14–22% more intense. Without climate change, such events would have occurred only once every 100 years.
Climate model results:
Models suggest VPD7x (drying conditions) is now 13 times more likely and 18% more intense, while DSR (fire risk index) is 10 times more likely and 22% more intense due to human-induced climate change.
Future projections:
At 2.6°C global warming (expected under current policies), extreme drying (VPD7x) will be six times more likely and 18% more intense. DSR events will be nine times more likely and 25% more intense.
Pre-season drought trend:
Rainfall in the October–April period has decreased by 14%, with more intense droughts recorded, contributing to higher wildfire risk by promoting vegetation growth followed by drying.
Changing wind patterns:
Since 1994, high-pressure systems linked to strong northerly winds have intensified, contributing to faster wildfire spread. These patterns differ significantly from the milder conditions observed between 1951–1980.
Europe-wide strain on resources:
With current warming, firefighting resources are under pressure. In 2025, the EU Civil Protection Mechanism was activated 17 times across multiple countries due to wildfires within a single week.
Response and adaptation:
All three countries have expanded firefighting capacities. Türkiye uses AI and aerial support; Greece employs drones and specialist teams; Cyprus has implemented satellite-based detection. Experts urge more public education, investment in prevention, and the integration of traditional fire management practices.
Source: worldweatherattribution.com
Feature photo source: Euronews
Also read: Cyprus receives US report on Limassol wildfire
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