A series of devastating wildfires are currently impacting multiple regions worldwide amid rising temperatures and extreme heatwaves. In southern France's Aude department, a massive wildfire has transformed the landscape, leading to the closure of forested areas until at least the end of next week. Local residents, including volunteer firefighters, viticulturists, and elected officials, have been actively engaged in firefighting efforts. The fire has caused significant psychological distress among inhabitants and led to a sharp decline in tourism. In Greece, particularly near Athens in Keratea and Palaia Fokaia, wildfires fueled by strong winds have resulted in one confirmed death and the deployment of over 260 firefighters, nearly 80 fire engines, and 12 aircraft. Authorities have issued evacuation orders due to the ongoing threat. Greece has experienced more than 50 agricultural and forest fires over two days, marking one of the worst wildfire periods this summer. In Canada, hot and dry conditions in Atlantic provinces such as Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland have prompted fire bans and increased penalties, including a $28,872 fine issued to a veteran for walking in wooded areas. These measures aim to prevent further wildfire outbreaks amid persistent drought and heat. Meanwhile, in Southern California, the Gifford Fire north of Santa Barbara has reached "megafire" status, burning over 104,000 acres—an area larger than Atlanta—under near 100-degree heat and dry conditions. Emergency services continue to battle these fires, highlighting the growing challenges posed by climate change. Additionally, heatwaves and wildfire risks are also reported in Spain and southern France, raising concerns about further fire expansion in the Mediterranean region.
DIRECT. Incendie meurtrier dans l'Aude : les massifs forestiers du département fermés "jusqu'à la fin de la semaine prochaine" https://t.co/pVBBxnMbcI
REPORTAGE. "J'en ai encore des frissons", "Je ne mange plus"... Après l'incendie dans l'Aude, la nécessaire prise en charge psychologique des habitants https://t.co/7ZB0bSC2f4
Cientos de bomberos combatieron durante la noche el llamado incendio Canyon, que comenzó la tarde del jueves en los condados de Ventura y Los Ángeles, en medio de temperaturas superiores a los 38 °C (100 °F) y fuertes ráfagas de viento. 🔥🌳🚒 https://t.co/RsOTGmrNrW