Scientists warn hotter temperatures and reduced rainfall from climate change worsen forest fires.
Europe’s 2025 wildfire season shatters records for land burned.
Fires have destroyed over one million hectares in the EU this year, exceeding Corsica’s total area.
That total is more than four times larger than last year.
Massive Fire Numbers Across the Continent
Authorities reported over 1,800 forest fires, releasing more than 38 million tonnes of CO₂.
Only the Czech Republic, Estonia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, and Malta avoided wildfires this year.
Italy and Romania each reported over 450 blazes, topping the EU fire counts.
Some countries with fewer fires faced the worst destruction, including Cyprus with only three fires.
Spain lost over 400,000 hectares, while Portugal lost 260,000 hectares, equal to 3% of Portugal and 0.8% of Spain.
Firefighting Systems Face Extreme Pressure
Held warned future conditions will increase pressure on firefighting resources.
He urged landscape preparation to improve resilience and keep firefighters safe.
Crews can clear vegetation, allow controlled grazing, or conduct controlled burns.
Agroforestry, mixing crops and trees, provides another way to reduce fire risk and strengthen ecosystems.
