Europe wildfires force mass evacuations amid intense heat

Wildfires are spreading across Europe, including Greece, Croatia, Germany, and France, as the region faces intense heatwaves and high fire risks.

In Greece, a massive fire broke out on the Halkidiki peninsula near Thessaloniki, threatening the Siviri and Fourka resorts. A ‘wall of fire’ approximately 3 km long and 30 m high approached the areas, which are primarily composed of highly flammable pine forests. High winds reaching up to 100 km/h complicated containment efforts.

More than 480 tourists were evacuated by sea, with some being transported to ships offshore while others were moved to nearby beaches. Road congestion occurred as residents attempted to flee by car. Two firefighters were injured during the operation. Authorities have raised the fire risk to the highest level (level 5) for much of mainland Greece and have banned access to pine forests in the Halkidiki region.

In Croatia, wildfires have entered residential areas, necessitating the evacuation of at least 1,000 people.