Europe Grapples with Devastating Heatwave and Rampant Wildfires

Wildfires burned across Europe as the continent faced record summer heat. Europe is warming faster than any other continent, with last year being the hottest on record. Climate change is worsening heat and dryness, increasing wildfire risk.

Fires raged in Spain, Portugal, and Turkey, causing evacuations and damage. In Spain, firefighters battled blazes in multiple regions. Portugal saw over 700 firefighters working to control a fire. Turkey largely contained a major wildfire, but others continued.

France faced extreme heat warnings, with some municipalities offering relief. Greece experienced major wildfires, forcing evacuations and destroying property. High winds hindered firefighting efforts.

Southern England, including London, was expected to experience high temperatures. A heat wave is defined as temperatures exceeding 25 degrees for most of the UK.