Wildfires erupt at 48 locations across Greece amid scorching heatwave

As Europe grapples with an intense summer heatwave, Greece has reported wildfires in 48 separate locations within the last 24 hours, according to the country's Fire Service. The fires have been fueled by extreme temperatures and strong winds, prompting a “yellow alert” in several regions.

Authorities have warned of heightened fire risks in Attica — home to the capital Athens — as well as Western Greece, the Peloponnese, the island of Euboea, and parts of the Eastern Aegean. The General Secretariat for Civil Protection released a hazard map and urged residents to refrain from open fires and other high-risk outdoor activities.

In the town of Palea Fokaia, southeast of Athens, a wildfire that began on June 26 spread into residential areas, damaging several homes. Emergency alerts were sent to mobile phones, instructing residents of some nearby villages to evacuate. On the island of Chios, a blaze last week destroyed approximately 65,000 stremmas (6,500 hectares) of forest land. Firefighters have been working nonstop as strong winds have continued to spark fires across regions including Euboea.

Regional Heatwave Sparks Emergency Measures Across Europe

Italy
In Italy, authorities have declared a state of heightened readiness, particularly in the southern regions. The Civil Protection Department has instructed regional administrations to implement fire prevention strategies between June 15 and October 15. Several local governments have banned the burning of agricultural waste and increased surveillance in vulnerable forested areas.

France
France's Meteo-France has placed 18 departments — including Loiret and Loir-et-Cher — under high fire risk alert. These areas, mainly in central France, are experiencing weather conditions conducive to the outbreak and rapid spread of wildfires. In some regions, such as Loire-Atlantique and Vendée, public access to forests is now restricted between noon and midnight.

Portugal
Portugal has issued a red alert in seven out of its 18 districts. In the town of Mora, located roughly 110 km east of Lisbon, temperatures soared to 46.6°C. The Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) warns that extreme heat is expected to persist through at least July 2.

Spain
Spain is also in the grip of extreme heat. In Seville, temperatures are forecast to remain above 40°C for three consecutive days. In El Granado, southwest Spain, temperatures reached 46°C on June 28 — the highest ever recorded in the country during June. AEMET, Spain’s national meteorological agency, has issued heat warnings across 16 autonomous regions. Recent wildfires in Catalonia burned 350 hectares and led to the temporary evacuation of 10,000 people.

Balkans
Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Croatia have all issued heat warnings. In Bosnia, an “orange alert” is in place in several cities with forecasts predicting temperatures above 40°C. Serbia is experiencing similar conditions, while in Croatia, red alerts have been declared for coastal zones, and yellow alerts for inland areas due to increased fire risk and soaring temperatures.

North Macedonia
Starting July 1, North Macedonia has banned access to forests between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. until August 31. Violators face fines ranging from €1,500 to €2,000 under the Forest Law.

United Kingdom
The UK Met Office has issued a “red alert” as temperatures approach 36°C in several regions. Vulnerable populations, particularly those over 65, are advised to stay indoors and remain hydrated. Fires in Scotland have continued to burn for three days. According to the London Fire Brigade, over 29,000 hectares of land have already been lost to fire in 2025 — more than the total from the previous 10 years combined.

Germany
The German Weather Service (DWD) has reported expected highs of 39–40°C in some areas. Citizens are advised to stay indoors, keep cool, and drink plenty of water. Severe thunderstorms and extreme weather are forecast to follow the heatwave.

Netherlands
The Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) has issued an orange alert for the provinces of Noord-Brabant, Gelderland, and Limburg. A national heat protocol has been activated, with advisories on limiting outdoor activity and fire hazards.