EU wildfires hit record levels burning over one million hectares

·

Wildfires have scorched more than one million hectares of land across the European Union this year, the highest amount since records began in 2006, according to EU data.

As of Tuesday, 1,028,000 hectares had been burned, an area larger than Cyprus, surpassing the previous record of 998,000 hectares set in 2017, the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS) reported.

Spain and Portugal have been worst affected, accounting for around two-thirds of the EU’s burned land. A sharp surge in fires between August 5–19 coincided with a 16-day Iberian heatwave, which killed at least eight people and disrupted rail and road networks.

In Spain, ten wildfires remained active on Tuesday in Castille and Leon, prompting the evacuation of around 700 people, while blazes continued in Galicia and Asturias.

In Portugal, cooler weather brought relief, with firefighters extinguishing the country’s largest recorded blaze in Piodao, which destroyed more than 60,000 hectares over 12 days.

So far in 2025, EU wildfires have emitted 38 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, more than at this point in any previous year, putting the bloc on track to break the annual record of 41 million tonnes.

Scientists warn climate change is fuelling more frequent and intense wildfires, heatwaves and droughts, though prevention measures such as clearing dry vegetation remain crucial in limiting their spread.

Source: Ekathimerini.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Mark Coure MP extends Oxi Day message to Greek and Cypriot communities

NSW Shadow Minister Mark Coure MP honours Oxi Day, praising the Greek and Cypriot communities for their courage and contribution to NSW.

Oakleigh Grammar farewells the Class of 2025 with Graduation Dinner

Oakleigh Grammar’s Class of 2025 gathered for a night of celebration, reflection, and recognition at their Year 12 Graduation Dinner.

Saint Dimitrios Parish in Moonee Ponds marks 50 years with joyful festival

The annual Saint Demetrios Parish Festival in Moonee Ponds brought together parishioners, dignitaries, and performers on Sunday, October 26.

Burwood RSL donates $14,000 to support St Nectarios’ Cottage Kitchen

St Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church in Burwood has received a $14,000 ClubGrant from Burwood RSL to continue vital community work.

Greek Australian nurse Helen Zahos recognised for 25 years of humanitarian work

The NT’s Greek community is celebrating humanitarian nurse and paramedic Helen Zahos, recognised for her service to global health.

You May Also Like

Floreat Athena crowned NPL WA Men’s Champions 2022

Floreat Athena have secured the National Premier Leagues Western Australia Men's Premiership with a 3-2 defeat of Armadale SC on Saturday.

Amanda Rishworth appointed NDIS Minister in pre-election cabinet reshuffle

In a significant cabinet reshuffle, Amanda Rishworth has been appointed the new Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

Sydney embraces ‘Stelios’ with over 2,000 tickets sold in three days and sold-out sessions

Sydney has been gripped by an unprecedented wave of excitement for the Australian premiere of Stelios, the captivating film.