A fierce heatwave sweeping through southern Europe poses serious threats, with wildfires endangering the city of Patras. In just two days, nearly 10,000 hectares in the Achaia region have been reduced to ashes, prompting authorities to evacuate communities including a children's hospital.
Greek City Faces Wildfire Threat Amid Southern Europe’s Heatwave
Greek City Faces Wildfire Threat Amid Southern Europe’s Heatwave
As wildfires rage near Patras, Greece’s third-largest city, extreme heat and dry conditions lead to emergency evacuations across the region.
Residents of Patras watched in alarm as flames crept closer, under scorching winds that pushed temperatures to 38°C and filled the air with smoke that caused health concerns for many. As the fires encroach upon more areas, Greece has urgently called for EU assistance, mobilizing over 4,800 firefighters against at least 20 wildfires currently ablaze.
Elsewhere in Greece, coastguard teams are rescuing individuals from beaches endangered by flames, while neighboring Portugal deploys 1,800 firefighters to tackle major infernos. The impact of the relentless heat has been widespread, with casualties reported in Spain, where a civilian and volunteer firefighter died, and political turmoil sparked over disaster management in a region grappling with wildfires.
Authorities estimate that this year alone, nearly 99,000 hectares have been consumed by fire across Greece, with arson suspected in some instances. Other countries including Albania and Italy are also battling their own wildfires, while Britain copes with its fourth heatwave of the summer. Environmental experts warn that these extreme weather conditions are increasingly common due to climate change.
Elsewhere in Greece, coastguard teams are rescuing individuals from beaches endangered by flames, while neighboring Portugal deploys 1,800 firefighters to tackle major infernos. The impact of the relentless heat has been widespread, with casualties reported in Spain, where a civilian and volunteer firefighter died, and political turmoil sparked over disaster management in a region grappling with wildfires.
Authorities estimate that this year alone, nearly 99,000 hectares have been consumed by fire across Greece, with arson suspected in some instances. Other countries including Albania and Italy are also battling their own wildfires, while Britain copes with its fourth heatwave of the summer. Environmental experts warn that these extreme weather conditions are increasingly common due to climate change.
