High heat and strong winds fuelled dangerous wildfires last week in France, Greece, and Türkiye, forcing thousands to flee their homes.
In southern France’s Aude wine country, flames spread across more than 160 square kilometres in just three days, making it the country’s largest fire since 1949. One person died, at least 21 were injured, and over 1,000 people remain unable to return to their homes.
In France, the fire destroyed or damaged dozens of houses and left around 1,300 homes without power. Roads remain blocked, and emergency shelters have been set up in 17 towns. Villagers described fighting the flames with garden hoses until firefighters arrived. Officials are using drones and GPS to watch for hot spots as temperatures are expected to climb above 30°C again.
Near Athens, Greece, a fast-moving wildfire swept through the Keratea region, destroying property and claiming one life. Gas canisters exploded as flames approached homes, and helicopters dropped water to slow the spread. Strong winds also disrupted ferry services.
Scientists warn that climate change is making the Mediterranean hotter and drier, creating ideal conditions for such blazes. This summer, the region has already seen several major fires, and experts say the risks will keep growing as temperatures rise faster than the global average.
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