Firefighters in Spain are facing extreme challenges as wildfires wreak havoc. The EU is stepping up to help by dispatching two Canadair water bombers as Spain battles these raging fires for the first time under the EU's disaster assistance mechanism.
With temperatures climbing past 44C, concerns about further spreads loom large. Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska has ordered the planes' deployment, preparing for the situations that may arise due to the severe heatwave.
The wildfire situation has tragically already claimed three lives, including a volunteer firefighter, prompting outpourings of support from government officials, including Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.
Thousands of residents have been evacuated from their homes, with civil guards assisting in critical areas, such as Caceres, where evacuations are ongoing.
Spain is not alone in its struggle against wildfires; countries like Greece and Albania are also requesting EU support as wildfires threaten communities. Greece has already seen injuries to 95 individuals as flames rage for a third day on the island of Chios, leading to dramatic evacuations across impacted regions.
As the heatwave persists, authorities remain on high alert, grappling not only with the immediate dangers of the fires but the long-term implications of worsening wildfire conditions across Europe.
Data reveals a shocking rise in burnt land this year, with about 439,000 hectares scorched compared to last year's figures, highlighting an urgent need for proactive measures in fire management across the continent.
