Fires in the southern regions of Europe and Turkey have subsided, yet temperatures escalate.
In recent days, wildfires have been ravaging Southern Europe and Turkey, with both Portugal and Spain bracing for a new heatwave expected to bring temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius in the coming days [1]. The situation has been particularly dire in Turkey, where at least 14 people, including firefighters, have lost their lives [2].
The weather conditions have played a critical role in the spread of these fires. Record-breaking high temperatures, combined with dry conditions and wind, have significantly elevated the risk and intensity of wildfires [1]. Heat dries out vegetation, making it more flammable and easier for fires to start and spread. Strong winds then carry embers, expanding fire fronts rapidly across forests and populated areas [1].
Firefighters in both regions have been working tirelessly to contain the devastating forest fires. In Turkey, the fires have largely been contained, according to the state news agency Anadolu [3]. Similarly, a second large fire near the Portuguese small town of Arouca has also been brought under control [3]. However, the situation was most difficult on Saturday in northern Portugal, near the small town of Ponte da Barca, where the flames are still almost under control but the weather conditions remain unfavourable [4].
The Greek fire service is also on high alert due to expected windy conditions in the coming days [5]. The forest fire risk remains extremely high in the south of the island of Euboea, the east of Crete, and the region around Athens [6]. Italy has also been affected, with Sicily being particularly hard hit [7].
Elsewhere, construction work on Goethestraße in Hamm is almost complete, and the city launched a pilot project in therapeutic education [8]. Despite the ongoing wildfires, few visitors went to Hamm's public baths in July [9].
Unfortunately, the number of wildfires in Turkey this year has been alarmingly high, with more than 2,000 forest fires breaking out so far [3]. In Portugal and Spain, over 70,000 hectares of forest, bush, and arable land have been destroyed by fires since the beginning of the year [10].
Strong wind is a particular challenge for firefighters, as it drives the flames forward and makes extinguishing work much more difficult [1]. High temperatures do not cause fires, but they can contribute to even the smallest negligence, arson, or a lightning strike developing into fires that are difficult to control [1].
Climate change is exacerbating the problem, as weather patterns that fuel wildfires are becoming increasingly common [1]. As such, wildfire management in the region faces a major challenge in the months and years ahead.
[1] [Source 1] [2] [Source 2] [3] [Source 3] [4] [Source 4] [5] [Source 5] [6] [Source 6] [7] [Source 7] [8] [Source 8] [9] [Source 9] [10] [Source 10]
- The increase in wildfire incidents, such as the current ones in Southern Europe and Turkey, is closely linked to climate-change-induced weather patterns that promote wildfire spread.
- In the realm of environmental science, the connection between climate change and its impact on weather patterns, causing conditions conducive to wildfires, is an area of growing concern for scientists.
- The discipline of weather-forecasting plays a pivotal role in informing decision-making during wildfire events, as accurate forecasts can aid in the prevention and management of these destructive fires.
