Wildfires have devastated vast expanses in southern Europe this year, with over a million hectares burned, which is approximately half the area of Wales. Spain and Portugal are particularly affected, with EU scientists noting that roughly 1% of the Iberian Peninsula has been scorched. The increasing frequency and severity of these fires are being attributed to climate change, according to new research from the World Weather Attribution group at Imperial College London. Experts warn that the trend is likely to persist in future years, highlighting the urgent need for climate action. Overall, the current wildfire season marks a historic crisis, calling attention to the need for effective environmental management strategies and policies to combat the looming threat of climate-induced disasters.
Wildfires Rage Across Europe: A Record-Breaking Heatwave
Wildfires Rage Across Europe: A Record-Breaking Heatwave
Southern Europe faces its worst wildfire season on record, as Spain and Portugal report unprecedented damage linked to climate change. Explore the grim details and future warnings from experts.
Over one million hectares have burned in the EU this year, marking the most destructive wildfire season since 2006. Spain and Portugal face significant losses, with about 1% of the Iberian Peninsula scorched and researchers connecting the worsening fire conditions directly to climate change. The findings indicate that this alarming trend in fire severity is likely to continue due to ongoing climate issues and rural depopulation.
