Fires erupt in the southern regions of Europe and Turkey
In the scorching summer of 2025, Southern Europe is bracing itself for a severe heatwave and an increased risk of wildfires. The mercury is set to soar, particularly in Spain, with temperatures predicted to reach up to 45°C in parts of Andalusia and Extremadura.
The Greek fire service is on high alert due to the expected windy conditions in the coming days, a nightmare for firefighters as strong winds drive flames forward and make extinguishing fires more challenging. This heightened vigilance comes after a series of wildfires that have ravaged parts of Italy, Turkey, Portugal, and Spain.
In Italy, the situation remains tense, especially in the south of the country. The wildfire risk remains extremely high in the south of the island of Euboea, east of Crete, and in the region around Athens, despite recent rain. Tragically, at least 14 lives have been lost in the fires that have swept through Turkey over the past few weeks.
Fortunately, wildfires in Southern Europe and Turkey have largely been contained. However, a fire near Ponte da Barca in northern Portugal is still raging, despite being almost under control. A second major fire near the town of Arouca in Portugal has been brought under control. Similarly, in Cuevas del Valle south of Ávila in Spain, firefighters received help from rain, which almost completely extinguished the flames.
The heatwave follows a brief cooler period across parts of Europe but signals a continuation of summer heatwave trends driven in part by climate change, resulting in growing frequency and severity of such extreme weather events across the continent. This heatwave is expected to bring increased health risks such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, notably affecting vulnerable populations. There will likely be added pressure on electricity grids due to higher power demand for cooling; previous heatwaves in Spain caused up to a 14% rise in electricity demand and significant increases in power prices.
The energy system stress coupled with extreme temperatures poses risks for energy security and infrastructure strain. Additionally, elevated temperatures increase wildfire risk, threaten water resources, and may cause disruptions in daily activities and work productivity.
As the heatwave unfolds, the focus remains on fire prevention and control, with fire services working tirelessly to protect lives and properties. The hope is that timely interventions and public cooperation will help minimize the impact of this extreme weather event on Southern Europe.
[1] Climate Central [2] The Guardian [3] European Commission [4] World Health Organization [5] NASA
- The Commission has also been consulted on the following issues: the impact of climate change on weather patterns, particularly in relation to increased heatwaves and wildfire risk, as well as the role of environmental science and climate-change in exacerbating these extreme weather events.
- Amidst the ongoing heatwave and wildfire crises, initiatives to foster climate-change education and investments in renewable energy are being advocated by organizations such as Climate Central, The Guardian, World Health Organization, and NASA, aiming for a sustainable future that is less vulnerable to such extreme weather conditions.
