Across Southern Europe, a relentless heatwave is driving temperatures to record highs and triggering heightened concerns about wildfires. From Portugal to Turkey, communities are grappling with extreme conditions and the associated risks.
Spain registered a new June heat record in Huelva, reaching 46 degrees Celsius. Simultaneously, in Mora, Portugal, the mercury climbed to a scorching 46.6 degrees Celsius. The prolonged heat has significantly increased the potential for devastating wildfires, a particular threat in France and Turkey.
In Turkey, authorities report that over 50,000 individuals have been evacuated from areas threatened by wildfires and brush fires. Forty-one municipalities are affected, with the western province of Izmir experiencing particularly severe conditions. Approximately 1,000 firefighters, supported by 14 helicopters, are battling a major blaze in Izmir, where over 130 homes have sustained damage. Separate incidents were also reported in the provinces of Bilecik and near the city of Hatay, causing alarm among residents.
France has issued heat alerts for 84 out of its 95 mainland departments. Businesses are being urged to prioritize employee safety and roughly 200 schools have temporarily closed. In the southwestern region, approximately 400 hectares of land have been consumed by flames. Notably, a reactor at the Golfech nuclear power plant was temporarily shut down due to elevated water temperatures in the Garonne River. The Mediterranean Sea is also experiencing unusually warm conditions for this time of year, with an average water temperature of 26.01 degrees Celsius recorded.