Europe's hot, dry summer takes its toll with fires in France and Greece, and drought in the UK
Summary
Europe experienced a very hot and dry summer, causing large wildfires in Greece and France, and drought in the UK. Many people were evacuated, and firefighting efforts involved planes and helicopters, though a collision between two helicopters near Athens resulted in two deaths.Key Facts
- Wildfires near Athens spread quickly, forcing over 1,000 people to evacuate, including some rescued by boat.
- Two firefighting helicopters collided near Athens, killing two crew members and injuring two others.
- The fire in Greece was caused by a faulty power line from a wind farm; two contractors were arrested for negligent arson.
- France experienced its largest wildfire on record, burning about 420 square kilometers and causing evacuations of over 224,000 people.
- Thousands of evacuees in France were allowed to return home as the large wildfire there was brought under control.
- The UK recorded its driest July in nearly 200 years, with parts of Wales and England officially in drought conditions.
- Europe is warming faster than any other continent, leading to drier vegetation and more intense wildfires during heat waves.
- Strong winds and high temperatures continue to raise fire risks, especially around Athens and southern Greece.
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