Southern Europe Wildfires Intensify Amid Heatwave, Thousands Evacuated

Southern Europe Wildfires Rage as Heatwave Sparks Mass Evacuations

Wildfires fanned by scorching temperatures and strong winds continued to ravage southern Europe on Wednesday, destroying homes, farmland, and factories, and forcing thousands of residents and tourists to flee.

In Greece, flames and thick smoke engulfed a cement factory near the city of Patras, after fires tore through olive groves and forests, disrupting rail traffic. Authorities ordered the evacuation of a nearby town of 7,700 residents, while two neighboring villages also received urgent alerts to leave.

On the islands of Chios and Cephalonia, both tourist hotspots, people were urged to move to safety as wildfires spread rapidly. Volunteer Giorgos Karvanis described the scene as “doomsday,” urging for divine help for affected communities.

Spain: Fatality and Widespread Damage

In Spain, a 35-year-old volunteer firefighter lost his life after suffering severe burns while creating firebreaks near Nogarejas in the Castile and Leon region. Several others were hospitalized as the state weather agency AEMET warned that almost the entire country faced “extreme” or “very high” fire risk.

Over 5,000 people were evacuated in Castile and Leon, where firefighters battled blazes threatening homes and warehouses. In Galicia’s Ourense province, six active fires have scorched 10,000 hectares (38 square miles). Regional leader Alfonso Rueda called the situation “complicated,” blaming unfavorable weather conditions.

Suspected Arson and Albania’s Crisis

Spanish Environment Minister Sara Aagesen said many fires appeared to be caused deliberately, but investigations were ongoing.

In Albania, Defence Minister Pirro Vengu called this a “critical week,” with multiple large-scale fires reported. In Delvina, some evacuees returned home, but officials warned the danger was far from over.

Heatwave Fuels the Disaster

The fires are being intensified by a severe heatwave gripping much of Europe. Spain entered its 10th consecutive day of extreme temperatures, peaking at 45°C (113°F) on Tuesday, with the heat expected to last until Monday, making it one of the longest on record.

In Italy, the health ministry issued extreme heat warnings for 16 cities. Florence faced a peak of 39°C (102°F), prompting Pope Leo to move his weekly audience indoors at the Vatican to escape the sweltering sun.

Highlights:

🔥 Southern Europe Wildfires force mass evacuations in Greece, Spain, and Albania.
🌡 Spain faces 45°C heatwave, one of the longest on record.
🚨 Suspected arson blamed for several fires in Spain.

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