Wildfires Rage Across Europe Amidst Scorching Heat

Firefighters in multiple countries struggle against devastating blazes.

As a severe heatwave grips much of Europe, firefighters are struggling to control widespread wildfires in Germany, Greece, and Turkey; the hot, dry, and windy conditions are creating a perfect storm for rapid fire spread.

Germany Grapples with Forest Fires

Hundreds of firefighters in Germany have been battling forest fires for days, particularly in the regions of Thuringia and Saxony. This includes the Gohrischheide nature reserve close to the Brandenburg border.

Around 650 emergency personnel were on the scene by midday Saturday. Authorities issued fire alerts through mobile apps to keep residents informed.

While officials in Saxony reported a largely stable situation, authorities in Brandenburg remain vigilant. They are preparing for the possibility of the fires reigniting.

Greek Firefighters Make Progress

In Greece, firefighters have made headway in containing a wildfire that started Friday afternoon in eastern Attica, according to the Greek fire service. Evacuations of nearby residents were ordered earlier due to homes being damaged.

People in Agios Dimitrios, Galazia Akti, and Althea received emergency alerts on their phones instructing them to evacuate to the coast. Roughly 120 firefighters, supported by eight helicopters and eight aircraft, were deployed to combat the blaze.

Heightened vigilance is in effect due to strong winds and dry conditions elevating wildfire risk across the country. As of July 1st, 59 wildfires have burned nearly 8,000 hectares in Greece (EFFIS).

Turkey Battles to Control Fires

In Turkey, firefighters have reportedly brought several large wildfires under control in the western Izmir province. Fueled by strong winds, the fires rendered homes uninhabitable and forced the evacuation of several neighborhoods when flames reached residential areas.

Ground crews, supported by planes and helicopters, worked continuously for three days to contain the fires, according to the Turkish forestry directorate. Two aircraft and 11 fire engines, along with support vehicles, were also sent to Syria to assist in firefighting efforts there.

Syria Faces Challenges

Large wildfires continue to cause widespread destruction in Syria, consuming coastal forests aided by strong winds and drought. The presence of unexploded munitions, remnants of over a decade of civil war, is complicating efforts to halt the series of wildfires.