A scorching heatwave has gripped parts of Europe, sending temperatures soaring to record-breaking highs and forcing evacuations as wildfires wreak havoc across the continent. The intense heat and strong winds have created “fire whirls,” a phenomenon that occurs when temperatures reach around 40 degrees Celsius in a confined valley before suddenly entering an open area.
Wildfires have ravaged several countries, including Spain, Portugal, Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria, Albania, and Croatia. In Spain, a wildfire damaged an ancient Roman mining site and forced hundreds of residents to flee, with four people, including two firefighters, suffering minor injuries. Authorities have estimated that around 700 people remain displaced.
The situation remains “very challenging” in several countries, with most fires being brought under control but many still active. Bulgaria is expected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius on Monday with maximum fire danger alerts in place. Hungary recorded a new national high of 39.9C on Sunday, breaking a record set in 1948.
Firefighters are battling blazes in sweltering conditions across the region, with Albania’s Ministry of Defence reporting over 40 fires within 24 hours. Croatia’s port city of Split was defended by around 150 firefighters who spent the night protecting homes from a blaze.
As global warming continues to take its toll on Europe, authorities and experts are urging caution and warning of the devastating impact of heatwaves and wildfires on communities.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/8/11/wildfires-blaze-through-parts-of-europe-as-heatwave-hits