Europe Grapples with Early Summer Heatwave as Wildfires Force Over 50,000 Evacuations
Firefighters in Turkey and France battled aggressive wildfires on Monday as an unseasonal summer heatwave swept across Western Europe, prompting the evacuation of over 50,000 people and triggering health alerts across several countries.
Countries including France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Germany, and even the typically temperate Netherlands issued warnings as temperatures soared far beyond seasonal averages. According to the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service, parts of the region are experiencing temperatures 5°C to 10°C above normal for this time of year.
In Turkey’s Izmir province, wildfires entered a second day, intensified by strong winds. The Turkish disaster authority, AFAD, reported evacuations of more than 42,000 people in Izmir alone, with others displaced in nearby regions. Experts attribute the increasing frequency of such blazes to human-driven climate change causing hotter, drier summers along Turkey’s coastline.
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France also faced severe wildfires, particularly in the Aude department, where over 400 hectares burned after temperatures surpassed 40°C (104°F). Authorities evacuated a campsite and abbey as a precaution. While the fires were contained by Monday, Meteo France placed 84 out of 101 departments under orange heat alerts until midweek.
Extreme Heat Bakes Western Europe
From London to Rome and Seville, millions sweltered in soaring temperatures. At Wimbledon, Scottish tennis fan Scott Henderson remarked, “It’s about 20 degrees warmer than I’m used to, and I’m sunburnt all over.”
Spain is on track for its hottest June ever, according to meteorological agency AEMET. Temperatures in Seville reached 42°C, with a peak of 43.7°C recorded in El Granado. Spain’s weather agency warned that the heat would persist until at least Thursday.
In Italy, the Health Ministry issued red alerts for 16 cities, including Rome and Milan. Lombardy officials are preparing to ban outdoor work during peak heat hours in response to trade union appeals.
Germany also faced significant heat stress, with temperatures hitting 34°C in the west and southwest. Authorities urged residents to conserve water. The heatwave also affected Rhine River shipping, reducing water levels and increasing freight costs.
Heatwave’s Broader Impact and Warnings
Health experts highlighted increased risks for the elderly, infants, low-income individuals, and outdoor workers. Globally, extreme heat causes up to 480,000 deaths annually—more than floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes combined—according to Swiss Re.
Scientists warn that rising greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels remain the primary driver of climate change. With last year marking the hottest on record globally, the current crisis underscores growing environmental and public health concerns.
