Europe's Forests Hit by Extreme Heat: Thousands Evacuated Due to Wildfires

Europe is battling wildfires as heatwaves continue to scorch the continent. In southwestern France, nearly 12,000 people have been evacuated due to wildfires in the Gironde region, with over 2,000 hectares of land burned. French authorities have banned the use of internal combustion and electric motors in forested areas and closed many roads. Among those evacuated are approximately 10,000 tourists. The Gironde region remains under a red alert, with some recreational areas closed due to high fire risk. A memorial service was held for two firefighters who lost their lives in wildfires near Bordeaux Airport. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez expressed support for the firefighters' families and thanked them for their sacrifice. In neighboring Italy, wildfires have also claimed lives. A firefighter died while responding to a fire in San Cataldo, Sicily. The head of Sicily's Civil Protection, Salvo Cocina, reported over 350 fires on the island, with 10 being major, and some preventive evacuations were carried out. In Spain, most residents who were evacuated due to wildfires near Madrid have returned home, but the Villa del Prado area remains at risk. Firefighting efforts continue with about 90 personnel and a helicopter. Europe has been under the influence of record-breaking temperatures in recent months. According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service report, in 2025, temperatures in at least 95% of Europe exceeded the long-term average. The report states that Europe is the fastest-warming continent, with last year seeing record levels of burned area and fire-related carbon emissions. European authorities are fighting to contain the wildfires, urging citizens to remain cautious.