Europe wildfires are intensifying across multiple southern countries as extreme temperatures and prolonged heatwaves drive dangerous fire conditions in several regions.
Authorities report active fires across Spain, France, Portugal, and Greece, with thousands of hectares already burned and mass evacuations underway.
Combined, the fires have scorched more than 19,000 hectares, while meteorologists warn that temperatures could again reach 40°C in the coming days.
Key affected areas
Several regions have been hit hard by the Europe wildfires, including:
- Girona region, Spain (Catalonia)
- Mandra, Greece (west of Athens)
- Oraiokastro and Thessaloniki, Greece
- Perpignan and Trevillach, France (Pyrénées-Orientales)
- Vouzela, Portugal (central Portugal)
Additional outbreaks have also been reported on the Croatian island of Hvar and in parts of Albania.
Evacuations and containment efforts
At least 10,500 people have been evacuated across southern Europe as emergency services battle multiple fronts.
In Spain, tens of thousands of residents in the Girona region were ordered to evacuate or remain indoors due to rapidly spreading flames.
In Portugal, the Vouzela fire, which has burned around 12,000 hectares, shows limited active fronts but continues to produce hot spots despite major firefighting efforts involving over 1,200 firefighters and aerial support.
EU response and cross-border support
The European Union has activated its largest-ever coordinated wildfire response, deploying emergency crews under the RescEU framework.
The European Commission said cross-border teams from multiple member states are assisting high-risk regions as fire conditions worsen across the continent.
Rising concern across the continent
Officials warn that wildfires in Europe are becoming more frequent and severe due to prolonged heatwaves and changing climate conditions, with July and August expected to remain critical months.
Emergency services across affected countries remain on high alert as containment efforts continue.
Also read: Cyprus sends firefighting aircraft to France
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