Thousands of people have been evacuated across Southern Europe as extreme heat continues to fuel major wildfires in Greece, Spain, Portugal and France, prompting authorities to issue fresh warnings for residents and tourists.
Hundreds of firefighters, supported by aircraft and international emergency teams, have been deployed to battle multiple blazes as soaring temperatures and dry conditions increase the risk of new fires across the region.
Greece Battles Multiple Wildfires
In Greece, authorities in Thessaloniki urged residents in several neighborhoods to remain indoors and keep windows and doors closed after toxic smoke spread from a waste recycling facility engulfed by a wildfire.
Another major blaze continues to burn west of Athens, with firefighters working to prevent the flames from reaching populated areas. Emergency services remain on high alert as hot, dry weather persists across much of the country.
Portugal Receives International Assistance
In central Portugal, firefighters are continuing efforts to contain a large wildfire near Vouzela that has been burning since Thursday. Reinforcements from Spain and Italy have joined Portuguese emergency crews as authorities work to bring the fire under control.
The prolonged heatwave has created ideal conditions for wildfires, forcing officials to closely monitor other high-risk regions across the country.
Spain Issues Fire Warnings
Spain is also battling several wildfires, including a significant blaze that has been burning in the northeastern province of Girona since Friday.
Meanwhile, authorities in the Canary Islands have issued fresh heatwave warnings for both residents and visitors. Fire alerts have been declared on Gran Canaria and Tenerife due to the heightened risk of wildfires as temperatures continue to rise.
Tourists Urged to Monitor Local Advice
Authorities across Southern Europe are advising travelers to stay informed through official channels, follow evacuation orders where necessary and avoid visiting areas affected by active wildfires.
Tourists planning outdoor activities are also being reminded to exercise extreme caution, as even small sparks can ignite fires under the current weather conditions.
France Restricts Tour de France Spectators
In France, wildfire risks have also affected one of the country’s biggest sporting events. Officials have banned spectators from parts of a Tour de France stage as a precaution against ongoing wildfires and the heightened fire danger in affected areas.
Meteorologists warn that the combination of extreme heat, low humidity and strong winds could keep wildfire conditions elevated across Southern Europe in the coming days, with additional outbreaks remaining possible.
