Climate Change Blamed for Intensifying 2025 Mediterranean Wildfires

A recent study by World Weather Attribution (WWA) has found that climate change significantly intensified the deadly wildfires that swept through Turkey, Greece, and Cyprus during the summer of 2025. These fires resulted in 20 fatalities, the evacuation of approximately 80,000 individuals, and the destruction of over 1 million hectares (about 2.47 million acres) of land.

The WWA study attributes a 22% increase in the intensity of these wildfires to climate change-induced factors, including record-breaking temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), prolonged dry conditions, and strong Etesian winds. Researchers noted that winter rainfall in the region has decreased by about 14% since the pre-industrial era, leading to drier conditions that make vegetation more susceptible to burning. Additionally, weeklong periods of dry, hot air that prime vegetation to burn are now 13 times more likely due to global warming.

In Turkey, the wildfires were particularly devastating. The government declared the western provinces of Izmir and Bilecik as disaster zones. In Antalya, fires led to evacuations in the city center and surrounding areas, with flames dangerously close to residential buildings. Despite extensive firefighting efforts, blazes in Aksu and Gazipasa continued to spread due to high temperatures, strong winds, and dry conditions. Antalya recorded its highest-ever July temperature at 46.1°C (115°F). Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya reported evacuations across 120 neighborhoods and significant damage to over 300 homes. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan described the situation as a major national disaster, noting the involvement of 25,000 personnel and extensive equipment.

In Greece, firefighters faced a "titanic battle" as wildfires raged across the country. Residents near Athens were ordered to evacuate, and fires also spread in regions including Kythira, Evia, and Crete. The severe heatwave, with temperatures reaching 44°C (111°F), fueled the blazes. Six firefighters were hospitalized, and the government labeled the response effort as a "titanic battle." Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis assured state support for affected citizens and requested assistance from European Union allies.

Cyprus also faced significant challenges, with a massive wildfire north of Limassol resulting in two fatalities and the destruction of approximately 125 square kilometers (about 1% of the island). The fires led to mass evacuations, disrupting communities and causing significant economic losses, particularly in the tourism and agriculture sectors. Public health concerns arose due to smoke inhalation and the immense strain on emergency services.

The WWA study emphasizes that with current warming at 1.3°C, extreme fire events are already stretching firefighting capabilities. The organization warns that temperatures could rise by up to 3°C unless fossil fuel use is drastically reduced. Local experts and independent scientists support the findings, highlighting that shifting wind patterns and a hotter climate are fueling more frequent and severe fire events in the Mediterranean region.

The frequency of fires has surged by nearly 50% compared to the previous year, with over 1,600 incidents and more than 410,000 hectares burnt. The European Union has deployed firefighting aircraft to several member states and provided aid to Syria. Data from the United Nations' World Meteorological Organization highlights that more than two-thirds of Europe’s most intense heatwaves since 1950 have occurred since 2000, reflecting the escalating impact of climate change.

The findings underscore the significant role of climate change in intensifying wildfire behavior in the Mediterranean region. The WWA study serves as a call to action for policymakers and communities to address the underlying causes and prepare for future challenges.