A wave of wildfires is hitting Southern Europe, with major damage reported in France, Spain and Portugal. According to authorities in these countries, high temperatures, drought and strong winds are making it difficult to control the flames, while the preliminary toll points to tens of thousands of hectares burned.
France faces a major blaze in the south
In southern France, in the Eastern Pyrenees region, a major wildfire has burned around 13,500 hectares of land since Saturday evening, according to French authorities.
The fire broke out in a mountainous area that is difficult to access near Mount Canigou, complicating operations on the ground. Around 700 firefighters have been deployed, with support from planes and helicopters.
Evacuations and harsh conditions for response efforts
According to the official account from French authorities, conditions on the ground remain very difficult because of northwesterly winds and temperatures that in some areas are expected to reach up to 40 degrees Celsius.
Evacuations of residents were carried out overnight, while several families were housed in safe locations after leaving their homes.
Spain: major fire near Costa Brava
In Spain, a fire near the tourist area of Costa Brava has burned around 22,000 hectares, according to data reported by authorities.
The fire has been brought under control, but official warnings remain strong because of high temperatures and the presence of several smoking hotspots. In some communities near Girona, movement restrictions have been lifted and residents have been allowed to return home.
Portugal also enters an early wildfire season
Wildfire outbreaks have also been reported in Portugal, in a period that authorities say is shaping up to be an early and difficult wildfire season for the region.
French authorities claim that most wildfires during this period are linked to human activity, while their spread has been fueled by drought and extreme temperatures.
The situation in Southern Europe remains tense, as emergency services work under difficult conditions and with increased risk from extreme weather.
With heatwaves having hit the region in recent weeks, fears of a further worsening of the wildfire season remain present.