Spain is grappling with a significant danger of new wildfires, as 14 significant blazes are currently being fought by firefighters amid an intense heatwave. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez shared concerns on X, cautioning that Friday's conditions are expected to be "very tough" and highlighted severe fire risks in northern and western regions, as indicated by the national weather agency Aemet.
With temperatures potentially soaring to 40C along the northern coast, the flames have decimated over 1,500 square kilometers, leading to the tragic loss of seven lives. This heatwave has enveloped much of southeastern Europe this week, triggering wildfires in various countries, including Portugal, Greece, France, and parts of the Balkans.
In Galicia, multiple fires have converged, resulting in a large blaze that has forced the closure of highways and railway services. According to Avincis, the leading operator of aerial emergency services in Europe, there has been a staggering 50% uptick in flight hours for firefighting efforts this season compared to the last.
Aemet forecasts the current heatwave will persist until Monday, with certain regions bracing for temperatures to rise as high as 44C, compounded by moderate winds.
Spain is not alone in battling wildfires this summer; it became the fifth European nation to seek assistance. Reports indicate that about 6,290 square kilometers have burned across Europe this year, with wildfires in Spain accounting for about a quarter of that total.
In a crackdown on arson, Spain's Civil Guard has detained two men suspected of igniting fires in Castille and León, increasing the total number of arson arrests to ten since June's onset. Authorities emphasize that wildfires can originate from various sources, including barbecues and discarded cigarette butts, and causing a wildfire is a criminal offense in Spain, even if unintentional.
While Spain deals with its fires, neighboring Greece is also grappling with drought conditions causing substantial stretches of wildfire. Firefighters are managing an active blaze on Chios Island, now in its third day, with infrastructure repairs anticipated to take over a week. The Greek Civil Protection agency has issued a high fire risk warning for many regions, as the country also calls on the EU's civil protection mechanism to assist in managing the crisis.
In conclusion, as Spain and Greece confront a challenging wildfire crisis fueled by climatic extremes, the urgent need for support and solutions becomes increasingly apparent amidst rising environmental threats across Europe.
