Southern Europe Scorched by Intense Heatwave and Wildfire Threats

Southern Europe is currently enduring an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F) across countries including Italy, Spain, Greece, Portugal, and France. This extreme heat has prompted widespread health warnings and significantly increased the risk of wildfires throughout the region.

In Portugal, two-thirds of the country have been placed on high alert, with the capital, Lisbon, expecting temperatures to exceed 42°C (107.6°F). The national meteorological service has issued warnings of extreme fire danger across much of the territory. Similarly, Spain's weather agency, AEMET, has issued special alerts, cautioning that "very high and persistent temperatures" pose serious threats, particularly in the southern city of Seville, where temperatures have also reached 42°C. Health officials in both countries are urging the public to avoid sun exposure, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable individuals.

Italy has placed 21 cities, including Rome, Milan, and Naples, under red health alerts. Regions such as Lazio, Tuscany, and Calabria are considering restrictions on outdoor work during peak heat hours, with trade unions advocating for national implementation of these measures. In Greece, a large wildfire near Athens has led to evacuations and property damage. Over 130 firefighters, supported by aerial units, have been deployed to control the blaze. Authorities have issued high wildfire alerts and are advising residents to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day.

France's southwestern Aude department has experienced temperatures exceeding 40°C, sparking wildfires that have consumed 400 hectares and forced evacuations. Météo-France has issued an orange alert for 84 departments, and approximately 200 schools have faced partial closures due to the extreme heat.

Experts attribute the increasing frequency and intensity of such heatwaves to climate change, warning of growing health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. A recent Lancet study predicts that heat-related deaths could quadruple by mid-century under current climate policies. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change, stating, "Extreme heat is now a frequent reality."

The European Union is taking proactive measures to combat the escalating threat of wildfires. Between July and September, nearly 650 firefighters from 14 European countries will be strategically pre-positioned in high-risk areas of France, Greece, Portugal, and Spain. This initiative aims to ensure faster response times and facilitate valuable knowledge exchange among participating teams. Additionally, the EU has allocated significant financial resources for the acquisition of 12 new firefighting planes and five helicopters, expected to be operational between 2026 and 2028.

The current heatwave serves as a stark reminder of the escalating challenges posed by climate change. As extreme weather events become more common, it is imperative for nations to implement robust strategies to protect public health, safeguard economies, and mitigate environmental risks.