Multitudes combat forest fires in Greece amidst a scorching European heatwave
=====================================================================
This week, wildfires have swept across Europe, causing significant damage and disruption, particularly in the Mediterranean region. Here's an overview of the situation in each of the affected regions.
Greece
Greece has been severely affected by wildfires, with areas such as Achaia (near Patras), Preveza, and the islands of Chios and Zakynthos being ravaged by flames. Firefighters have been battling around the clock to contain fires, supported by challenging conditions due to high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds. Over 71 people received medical care, mostly in Preveza and the Patras area.
Spain
Spain is experiencing its worst wildfire season in over 30 years, with over 400,000 hectares burned by August 19. The most affected provinces include Ourense, León, and Zamora. The government is investigating the lack of fire prevention measures, and evacuation and containment efforts are ongoing with firefighting units across the country. Wildfires have threatened a world heritage Roman mining site in the northwestern region of Castile and Leon.
Portugal
Portugal has restricted access to forested areas and banned the use of agricultural equipment to reduce the risk of fires. Despite these measures, the country remains vigilant due to the ongoing heatwave and risk of wildfires. A separate fire in Arganil, central Portugal, has smothered several villages with smoke, prompting the evacuation of elderly residents. Strong winds have rekindled flames in Trancoso, threatening nearby villages where locals are volunteering to help firefighters.
Italy
Italy has been placed under heat-related alerts, with 16 cities on red alert due to extreme temperatures. While specific firefighting efforts are not detailed, the heat alerts indicate a heightened state of readiness for potential wildfires.
Balkans
The Balkans, including countries like Montenegro and Albania, have seen significant smoke plumes from wildfires. In Albania, thousands of firefighters and volunteers are battling large fires. Evacuations have occurred in affected areas, and firefighting efforts are being supported by military and police units.
Britain
Britain is experiencing its fourth heatwave of the summer, with wildfires now a real threat in historically temperate areas. However, there is no specific information available on major wildfires in Britain during this period.
Europe-wide Efforts
Countries are taking measures such as evacuations, fire restrictions, and increased firefighting personnel to combat the wildfires, which have been exacerbated by severe heatwaves and climate change factors. The Spanish Interior Minister, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, requested help from the European Union, including the deployment of two water-bombing planes. In Greece, thousands of firefighters, including those backed by the army, are battling wildfires across the country.
However, criticism has been levelled at the conservative governments in Greece and Spain for their preparation for annual fires, with the main opposition PASOK Socialist party in Greece citing poor coordination of forces and a lack of local emergency plans.
In Portugal, a 80-year-old man died after losing control of a fire he had started in his garden, and eight people were injured. Despite these tragedies, the collective efforts of firefighters, volunteers, and local communities continue to fight against the relentless onslaught of wildfires across Europe.
Read also:
- Germany's three-month tenure under Merz's administration feels significantly extended
- Governing body allegedly persists in enjoying vacation time amidst Spain's highest danger level due to fires, claims Feijóo
- United Nations Human Rights Evaluation, Session 45: United Kingdom's Statement Regarding Mauritius' Human Rights Record
- Hurricane-potential storm Erin forms, poised to become the first hurricane in the Atlantic Ocean this year.
