Hundreds of firefighters across southern Europe battled wildfires on Sunday, July 5, as temperatures rose again in a heatwave-scarred region. The infernos have devastated more than 42,000 acres of land—an area more than twice the size of Manhattan—across Portugal, Spain, France, and Greece, with temperatures predicted to reach 40°C in some areas.
Evacuations and Disruptions
Residents in southern France near Perpignan were evacuated in the middle of the night as fires threatened homes and disrupted a stage of the Tour de France cycling race. Charlotte Pignol, 30, described the chaos: "We started seeing smoke around 10:30 pm, then it kept coming closer and closer. Someone from the town hall knocked on our door around 1:00 am to tell us to leave."
International Reinforcements
Spain sent 120 firefighters and 45 vehicles to Portugal, alongside three firefighting aircraft from Italy and Spain. In Greece, authorities urged residents in parts of Thessaloniki to remain indoors due to toxic smoke from a burning recycling plant engulfed by a wildfire. Another major wildfire broke out west of Athens, prompting the deployment of 210 firefighters and 29 aircraft.
Climate Change Concerns
The blazes come shortly after a June heatwave, one of Europe's worst, which scientists attributed to climate change. French fire service Colonel Eric Belgioino warned, "Climate change is here, we are living the consequences, and it is only the start of July." Authorities expressed alarm that the annual summer wildfire season had started a month early.
Firefighting Efforts
In Portugal, over 1,200 firefighters and 15 aircraft battled a blaze that had burned 12,000 hectares by Sunday. In Spain, a fire near the Costa Brava coast burned 2,200 hectares in two days. Firefighters worked tirelessly to stabilize the perimeter of the La Bisbal d'Empordà forest fire, which is now under control. A man was detained in connection with the fire in the Gavarres protected natural area.
Health and Environmental Impact
Authorities registered thousands of excess deaths during the June heatwave. The fires have also raised concerns about air quality and environmental damage, with toxic smoke affecting urban areas.
Future Outlook
With temperatures set to rise further, authorities warn of a long and challenging fire season ahead. Firefighters are pleading for public cooperation to avoid starting new fires.