Wildfires across southern Europe have forced thousands of residents to evacuate and compelled officials to restrict access to the Tour de France as temperatures approach 40C. More than 19,000 hectares of land have burned across Portugal, Spain, France, and Greece, according to local authorities, as the region experiences an unusually early start to the wildfire season.
Why are European wildfires spreading so rapidly?
The current surge in wildfires is driven by a combination of intense heat, exceptionally dry air, and high winds. In southwestern France, a blaze near Perpignan tripled in size since early yesterday, consuming 4,600 hectares, according to local officials. The fire forced the evacuation of 10,000 residents and left a firefighter and a resident injured.
Residents in the path of the flames described the speed of the fire as “staggering.” One resident of the village of Trévillach noted that the fire reached within 300 metres of homes before emergency teams could intervene. French fire service Colonel Eric Belgioino stated that the early start to the wildfire season is a consequence of climate change, which he says is “here” and currently unfolding.
The land scorched by wildfires in Portugal, Spain, France, and Greece currently exceeds 19,000 hectares—an area more than twice the size of Manhattan.
How is the Tour de France being affected?
French officials announced that today’s third stage of the Tour de France through the Pyrenees would take place without spectators. Regional prefect Pierre Regnault de la Mothe confirmed that the event will be limited to riders and essential race vehicles only.
The public is asked not to go near the route or to the finish area. Spectators have been explicitly asked by authorities to avoid both the race route and the finish area.
What is the status of fires in neighboring countries?
The crisis is regional, with multiple nations reporting significant destruction:
- Portugal: Emergency services report having controlled 80 percent of a fire that destroyed 13,000 hectares of forest and scrub land in the north.
- Spain: A blaze near the Costa Brava coast has burned over 2,200 hectares, with firefighters warning that rising temperatures will complicate containment.
- Greece: Forest fires in Thessaloniki destroyed two factories, leading authorities to issue air quality warnings and urge residents to keep windows closed.
- Croatia and Albania: Major fires have destroyed hundreds of hectares of vineyards and forest on the island of Hvar and at Tale, according to local authorities.
Are these heatwaves linked to climate change?
The current fires follow a June heatwave that the World Weather Attribution group of scientists described as “virtually impossible” to occur without the influence of climate change. That event resulted in thousands of excess deaths across Europe. Forecasters expect the current temperature spike to persist through the coming weekend, with the heatwave moving progressively north.
Authorities in affected regions are urging residents to take immediate precautions to avoid starting fires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Tour de France restricted?
Officials limited the race to ensure it would be, in France at least, a stage of the Tour de France without spectators.
How much land has been destroyed so far?
According to reports from national authorities, over 19,000 hectares have been destroyed across Portugal, Spain, France, and Greece.
Is the wildfire season ending soon?
No. Authorities warn that the season started a month early and expect a long, difficult period ahead for firefighting crews due to rising temperatures.
Are you in an affected area? Stay updated on the latest evacuation orders and fire safety alerts by subscribing to our emergency news newsletter or checking local government portals.
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