Europe battles wildfires amid ongoing heat wave

BRUSSELS

A severe heat wave sweeping across Europe has triggered widespread wildfires and emergency responses in several countries, affecting thousands and prompting evacuations and closures.

In Spain’s northeastern Catalonia region, wildfires have scorched over 3,000 hectares (7,413 acres) of forest, negatively impacting the lives of around 18,000 residents, the El Pais daily reported Tuesday.

Authorities advised people to stay indoors as strong winds of up to 90 kilometers (56 miles) per hour hampered firefighting efforts. Four people suffered minor injuries, while a firefighter was treated for heatstroke, the President of the Government of Catalonia, Salvador Illa, announced. Smoke from the fires reportedly reached as far as the city of Alicante, nearly 400 kilometers (248 miles) away.

In North Macedonia, the government declared a 30-day nationwide “state of crisis” due to escalating wildfires. Government spokesperson Marija Miteva said at a press conference that the move enables the full mobilization of human, technical and logistical resources.

In Italy, a wildfire in a scrubland area in the town of Maddalena in northern Sardinia forced the evacuation of around 20 people, the Italian news agency ANSA reported. Local mayor Fabio Lai confirmed there were no injuries, noting the fire was brought under control thanks to coordinated efforts by land units and firefighting aircraft.

Southern France is also battling major blazes. A wildfire in the Aude department has burned around 2,000 hectares (4,942 acres) and is still active. Aude Prefect Christian Pouget told broadcaster TF1 Info that the situation was “exceptional,” citing a drought, strong winds and high temperatures. Over 1,000 firefighters and at least seven firefighting aircraft have been deployed.

Another fire in the Bouches-du-Rhone department spread rapidly, burning 30 hectares (74 acres) in just two hours and forcing evacuations. Flights at Marseille Airport were suspended as the fire reportedly reached the city.

Meanwhile, in Greece, soaring temperatures reaching 40C (104F) led to the temporary closure of the Acropolis in Athens for public safety. The Labor Ministry extended mandatory work stoppages for outdoor workers for a second consecutive day.

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