High Risk of Wildfires Declared in Spain and Portugal Amid Extreme Heat
Spain and Portugal are facing a high risk of wildfires as extreme heat grips the region, with meteorologists predicting temperatures between 36 and 44 degrees Celsius. A state of emergency has been declared in mainland Portugal due to these conditions, reports 24brussels.
Climatologists attribute this unusual weather phenomenon to hot air masses from North Africa hovering over the Iberian Peninsula. Spain is experiencing its second heatwave of the summer, expected to persist until the end of the week.
The peak of the heat is anticipated on Monday and Tuesday. A “red alert” will be issued for adverse weather conditions across the region, excluding Cantabria and the Canary Islands.
Severe wildfires have been ongoing in Europe for several weeks due to the anomalously high temperatures and drought conditions. Southern countries—Greece, Cyprus, Spain, and Portugal—have been particularly affected. According to the European Forest Fire Information System, over 292,000 hectares have been burned as of the end of July 2025. This is more than the total land area of Luxembourg. By comparison, only 140,000 hectares were affected during the same period last year.
In certain areas, the situation is exacerbated by strong winds, complicating firefighting efforts as some fires become uncontrollable. Meanwhile, in Italy, a lengthy period of oppressive heat is nearing its end, with reports of rain beginning in regions such as the Adriatic coast.
Temperatures are also reaching record levels in the Scandinavian countries. While Poland prepares for hurricanes and stormy weather, Finland has not seen temperatures drop below 30 degrees Celsius in July. Similarly, Sweden experienced this temperature for 12 consecutive days. Additionally, the region has frequently faced storms, including lightning that ignites wildfires.
