Watch: Europe's Wildfires Seen from Above
Thousands have been forced to flee as wildfires consume southern Europe. Heatwaves driving temperatures over 40 C (104 F) have triggered fires across Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, and the Balkans. Scientists warn that global warming makes Mediterranean summers hotter and drier, fuelling longer and more intense fire seasons.
Evacuations and Impacts
A heatwave is driving wildfires across southern Europe, with temperatures topping 40C (104F) in many areas. Red alerts are in place across Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, and the Balkans as dry conditions and high temperatures fuel the fires. Many thousands have been forced to flee, with homes and businesses destroyed in the fires.
Future Projections
Scientists warn that global warming is making Mediterranean summers hotter and drier, dramatically extending the fire season. Experts predict that climate change will lead to an increase in the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, including wildfires, in the future.
Climate Change and the Fire Season
The fire season is extending in Europe due to climate change, making wildfires more frequent and severe. Large fires are burning across the continent, from Spain to the Balkans, with the hottest months of the year still to come. Climate change is lengthening the fire season in the region, meaning that dry, hot conditions are now more common and last much longer.
