A record one million hectares — roughly half the size of Wales — have burned across the European Union so far this year, marking the worst wildfire season since records began in 2006. Spain and Portugal are particularly affected, with about 1% of the entire Iberian Peninsula scorched. According to the World Weather Attribution group at Imperial College London, the worsening fire seasons in the Mediterranean are directly linked to climate change, warning that increasingly severe wildfires are likely to persist. In Spain alone, over 400,000 hectares have been consumed by flames this year, leading to a sixfold increase compared to the average for the past 18 years. Neighbouring Portugal reports nearly 270,000 hectares burned, with both countries witnessing dramatic impacts on protected areas and key tourist routes. The scientific community is emphasizing immediate action to mitigate climate change and implement improved fire management strategies.
Record Wildfires in Southern Europe: A Call to Action on Climate Change
Record Wildfires in Southern Europe: A Call to Action on Climate Change
Southern Europe faces unprecedented wildfire devastation, with climate change identified as a major contributing factor. Explore the alarming statistics and insights into the fires raging across Spain and Portugal.
The European Union is grappling with its worst wildfire season on record, as more than a million hectares burn across Spain and Portugal. This catastrophe, which has significantly impacted air quality and the region's ecosystems, is intricately tied to climate change. Studies indicate that human-caused climate change increases the likelihood of such extreme fire events, marking a concerning trend for future summers.
