Wildfires brought on by high temperatures in Europe are causing devastation across Portugal, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria. In Portugal, at least 14 people, including 11 firefighters, were hospitalized due to smoke inhalation after a fire broke out near Lisbon. The blaze was quickly brought under control, with over 300 firefighters and numerous vehicles and aircraft deployed to the scene. In North Macedonia, fires have been raging for almost two weeks, with the worst damage occurring at Serta Mountain. The situation has prompted the deployment of helicopters, special service police officers, and army members to fight the flames.
In Bulgaria, wildfires in the municipality of Bolyarovo have finally been contained after a week of intense firefighting efforts. The fires have caused extensive damage, particularly in the village of Voden where many residents have lost their homes. To assist those affected, temporary accommodation in the form of mobile homes has been set up, with plans to provide additional necessities such as beds, kitchenware, and household utensils. The area continues to face challenges due to high temperatures and strong winds, but efforts are ongoing to support those impacted by the fires.
Greece is also facing wildfires near its border with Bulgaria, particularly in the Sandanski villages of Petrovo and Goleshovo. Foresters and firefighters are working to prevent the fire from spreading to Slavyanka mountain and the Ali Botush Reserve. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation between Bulgaria and Greece, with plans in place to activate units if needed. The ongoing wildfires highlight the need for continued vigilance and cooperation to combat the spread of fires in the region and protect communities from further damage.
As devastating wildfires continue to wreak havoc across Europe, the affected countries are mobilizing resources to combat the flames and provide support to those impacted. In Portugal, firefighting efforts have been successful in controlling the fires near Lisbon, while in North Macedonia, ongoing battles are being fought to contain the blazes at Serta Mountain. Bulgaria has finally managed to bring wildfires under control in Bolyarovo, but the damage to the village of Voden has been significant.
To assist those who have lost their homes in the fires, temporary accommodation in the form of mobile homes has been provided in the worst affected areas. These mobile homes are expected to be furnished with essential items such as beds, kitchenware, and household utensils to ensure the basic needs of the affected residents are met. The challenging conditions of high temperatures and strong winds continue to pose difficulties for firefighting efforts, but authorities are dedicated to supporting those impacted by the fires and preventing further devastation.
In Greece, efforts are underway to prevent wildfires from spreading near the border with Bulgaria and protect key natural areas such as the Slavyanka mountain and the Ali Botush Reserve. Monitoring teams are closely watching the situation and stand ready to activate additional resources if necessary. The ongoing cooperation between countries in the region highlights the importance of a united front in combating wildfires and safeguarding communities from the destructive effects of fire. The resilience and determination of those involved in firefighting and relief efforts serve as a beacon of hope amidst the devastation caused by the wildfires in Europe.