Wildfires Rage Across Spain and Portugal After Extreme Heat Wave

After the intense heat wave that swept across Europe last week, several countries in western Europe are now battling massive wildfires threatening communities, natural areas, and popular tourist destinations. Just one day after a major wildfire in southern France forced the evacuation of about 3,000 residents and tourists, attention has shifted to Spain and Portugal, where firefighters continue working to contain multiple blazes.

In Spain, a wildfire broke out on Friday near the town of La Bisbal d'Empordà in the Empordà region, close to the beaches of Costa Brava, one of the country's most popular vacation destinations. According to reports, more than 12,000 people across 10 municipalities have been affected by the fire.

Authorities instructed some residents to remain indoors because of hazardous conditions, while others were ordered to evacuate immediately as the flames advanced toward residential areas.

Footage from the scene shows towering flames and thick columns of smoke rising above the forests near Costa Brava. Emergency crews remain on the ground, working to prevent the fire from spreading to additional communities.

Portugal is also battling several active wildfires, with scorching temperatures and dry conditions making firefighting efforts increasingly difficult. Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro warned, "Our entire territory is exposed to a very high risk," as a wildfire that began on Wednesday continued spreading through forested areas in the days that followed.

Portuguese authorities said at least nine people have been injured in the fires so far. The injured include three firefighters who sustained minor injuries and one civilian who suffered serious burns. Overall, officials reported that two people are in serious condition.

The country's largest wildfire is burning in the municipality of Vouzela, in the Viseu district, where firefighting efforts are now concentrated. Weather forecasters warned that temperatures could reach as high as 44°C (111°F) in some parts of the country.

Because of the extreme weather conditions, 12 of Portugal's 18 districts were placed under a red alert, which is expected to remain in effect through the weekend. On Friday, Portuguese authorities requested international assistance by activating the European Union's civil protection mechanism and cooperation agreements with Spain and Morocco to strengthen firefighting operations.

That same day, approximately 1,000 firefighters, supported by around 300 vehicles and eight aircraft, were deployed to battle the main fire zones. In addition, at least 100 firefighters were assigned to each of four other active wildfire areas as crews continue working to contain the spread of the flames.