Southern Europe is fighting a losing battle against fierce wildfires. Blazes are sweeping across Greece, Spain, and Portugal. Thousands of people have had to leave their homes quickly. Scientists warn that global warming is making these heatwaves worse. This means more dangerous wildfires will keep hitting the region.
In Greece, firefighters are working hard to put out a large fire near Patras. This is the third biggest city in the country. The fire has already burned down homes and businesses in western Greece. Holiday islands like Zakynthos and Kefalonia are also getting ready to move tourists if needed. Chios island and areas on the mainland are seeing strong fires too. The Civil Protection service has sent out more than 20 mobile phone alerts. These warnings tell people to leave and give safety tips.
Over in Spain, wildfires are tearing through many parts of the Iberian Peninsula. Some areas are boiling hot, with temperatures reaching 44 degrees Celsius. Fire crews mostly have a fire under control outside Madrid. That fire started late on Monday. Sadly, one man has died in these fires. The flames have destroyed over 1,000 hectares of land. People in Castile and Leon, Andalusia, and Galicia are still under orders to evacuate.
Meanwhile, in Portugal, more than 700 officers are battling a blaze in Trancoso. This is another major fire in southwest Europe. Temperatures there have soared to 43 degrees Celsius. The dry, hot weather makes these fires spread fast. It also makes them very hard to stop.
Experts say climate change is causing hotter, drier conditions. This makes wildfires happen more often in Europe. They are also much harder to control. These fires are causing more and more harm to people, businesses, and nature. The situation shows how the changing climate is directly affecting everyday life. (Source: AP)