Wildfires spread across southern Europe as extreme heat fuels growing threat

Wildfires are continuing to burn across southern Europe, forcing people from their homes, damaging property and stretching emergency services as high temperatures and dry conditions create ideal conditions for fast-moving fires.

Several countries are battling active blazes, with firefighters receiving support from local communities and international partners as they work to protect homes and contain the flames.

Greece battles rapidly spreading fire

In Greece, a wildfire near Oreokastro, north of Thessaloniki, prompted emergency alerts and evacuations after breaking out on Saturday. Strong winds helped drive the fire through forested hills, making it difficult for crews to bring it under control.

Firefighters, backed by emergency vehicles and volunteers, continued to tackle the blaze on Sunday as authorities worked to prevent it from reaching more homes and businesses.

Agricultural and forested areas went up in flames near Oreokastro with a total of 160 firefighters, five specialised forest firefighting teams, 52 fire engines and volunteers were deployed.

Portuguese communities rally as fires threaten homes

Portugal is also facing a challenging wildfire season. In the Cercosa area, residents have joined firefighters on the front line, helping deliver water and support firefighting operations as flames threaten homes and surrounding woodland. The fire, which started earlier in the week, has already scorched thousands of hectares.

For those living in the affected areas, the uncertainty has become part of daily life.

"The situation we are living through is particularly hard. The fire, the flames and the smoke are making conditions unbearable," said Cercosa resident Assuncao Almeida. "Beyond the fear we all have of waking up and finding our homes in flames, my house is surrounded by forest. Since the early hours of Thursday we have been living through a very difficult situation."

Further south, in Vouzela, Portuguese authorities are being assisted by Spain's Military Emergency Unit, which has deployed personnel and equipment to help defend vulnerable communities.

Italy has also sent firefighting aircraft as part of a wider European effort to support Portugal.

Spain remains on alert

Firefighters in north-eastern Spain are also working to contain several wildfires. Officials have warned that shifting winds could push the flames closer to populated areas, while restrictions and confinement orders remain in place in affected locations.

With hot, dry weather expected to continue, authorities across southern Europe remain on high alert. Several countries are relying on cross-border cooperation as emergency services race to contain the fires and limit further damage.

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News Wildfires Europe Greece climate change Firefighters Portugal Spain heatwave