MADRID (AP) — Wildfires have been a major issue in Spain, Portugal, and Greece, especially during a recent public holiday. With high temperatures and dry weather, firefighters are struggling to contain several large fires.
In Spain, there are currently 14 major fires raging. According to Virginia Barcones, the head of emergency services, the situation is intense. Temperatures are set to soar over the weekend, raising the threat of new fires. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez acknowledged the extreme fire risk on social media.
The national meteorological agency, AEMET, has warned about high fire danger across much of the country. A heatwave has pushed temperatures above 40°C (104°F) for several days this month and is predicted to continue through Monday.
In the Galicia region, the wildfires have led to road closures and the suspension of the high-speed rail line to Madrid. This year, fires in Spain have scorched approximately 158,000 hectares (about 610 square miles), a size comparable to metropolitan London.
Meanwhile, in Portugal, nearly 4,000 firefighters are tackling seven active fires. Authorities have extended the state of alert due to prolonged high temperatures.
In Greece, a wildfire has been burning uncontrollably on the island of Chios for four days, prompting evacuations. Firefighters received some support from water-dropping planes and helicopters as a break in high winds helped their efforts.
“Climate change has made wildfires more frequent and intense,” says Dr. Maria Fernanda, a climate scientist. “We need to adapt our strategies to combat these challenges more effectively.”
Historically, Europe has seen large wildfires every summer, but recent years have set alarming records. Data from the European Union shows that wildfires in Southern Europe have increased by approximately 20% over the past decade.
On a spiritual note, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew reached out during prayers for the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, expressing solidarity with wildfire victims.
As the struggle continues, communities in Spain, Portugal, and Greece are coming together in the face of adversity.
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