Home / Disasters and Accidents / Europe Wildfires Rage: Portugal, Greece, Spain Battle Blazes
Europe Wildfires Rage: Portugal, Greece, Spain Battle Blazes
6 Jul
Summary
- Over 1,200 firefighters battled a wildfire in Portugal that scorched 30,000 acres.
- Greece fights blazes near Thessaloniki and Athens, facing toxic smoke.
- A Spanish wildfire consumed nearly 5,400 acres in the Girona region.
Wildfires are currently raging across popular holiday spots in Portugal, Greece, and Spain, prompting a significant international response.
In central Portugal, a massive wildfire that began on Thursday had consumed 30,000 acres by Sunday afternoon, with over 1,200 firefighters and 15 aircraft engaged in its control. International reinforcements, including 120 firefighters from Spain and three aircraft from Italy and Spain, were deployed to assist. By Sunday afternoon, the blaze showed signs of abating, though hotspots remained.
Greece is contending with multiple fires. Near Thessaloniki, a recycling plant fire generated toxic smoke, forcing residents indoors. Authorities also battled a large wildfire west of Athens, deploying 210 firefighters and 29 aircraft to combat flames in pine forests. The fire department noted that about 85% of wildfires in Greece are caused by negligence and could be avoided.
Spain's northeastern Girona region saw a wildfire ignite on Friday, burning nearly 5,400 acres with a 25-mile perimeter. Firefighters were working to contain it, with control not expected by Sunday. This widespread fire activity highlights the severe impact of climate change on the region during its hot, dry summers.
