Europe is experiencing its most severe wildfire season on record, with devastating fires in Spain, Portugal, and beyond. Many wonder what’s driving this increase in intensity and frequency. The answer lies in the changing climate, land management issues, and socio-economic factors. Below, we explore the key reasons behind Europe's worsening wildfires and what can be done to prevent future disasters.
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How does climate change make wildfires worse in Europe?
Climate change has led to more frequent and intense heatwaves, droughts, and windy conditions across Europe. Research shows that extreme weather events that fuel wildfires are now 30 to 40 times more likely because of global warming. These conditions dry out forests and grasslands, creating perfect fuel for fires that spread rapidly and become harder to control.
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Why are wildfires in Europe increasing in severity?
The severity of wildfires has increased due to a combination of climate change and land management issues. Overgrown forests, neglected by rural depopulation and poor land practices, provide dense fuel loads. Additionally, rising temperatures and prolonged droughts make fires more intense and harder to extinguish.
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What areas in Europe are most affected by recent wildfires?
Spain and Portugal have been the hardest hit in 2025, with over 660,000 hectares burned. Southeastern Europe, including parts of Armenia and Georgia, also experienced severe droughts and fires. These regions are particularly vulnerable due to their climate, land use, and recent environmental changes.
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What can be done to prevent or reduce wildfires in Europe?
Preventing wildfires involves better land management, such as controlled burns and clearing dense vegetation. Governments are also working on disaster preparedness plans, improved firefighting resources, and cross-border cooperation. Addressing climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions is crucial to tackling the root cause of increasingly severe wildfires.
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How is climate change linked to the human toll of wildfires?
Heatwaves intensified by climate change have led to a rise in heat-related deaths during summer 2025, with estimates suggesting 65% of such fatalities in major European cities are attributable to global warming. The increased frequency and severity of fires also displace communities, cause fatalities, and damage ecosystems, highlighting the urgent need for climate action.