Wildfires Sweep Southern Europe as Portugal, Greece, & Spain Battle Blazes

Hundreds of firefighters continue battling major wildfires across Portugal, Greece, and Spain, as European countries step up cross-border assistance to contain rapidly spreading blazes fueled by extreme summer conditions.

Portugal remains the hardest-hit country, where more than 1,200 firefighters, supported by nearly 400 vehicles and 15 aircraft, are working to contain a massive wildfire that has been burning in the central Foz Côa region since Thursday. 

According to the European Union's Copernicus satellite monitoring program, the fire has already scorched approximately 12,000 hectares of land.

The European Union Civil Protection Mechanism has mobilized additional support, with Spain deploying 120 firefighters and 45 vehicles to Portugal, while Italy and Spain have also sent specialized firefighting aircraft. 

Portuguese media reported that the blaze is gradually being brought under control, although several active hotspots remain.

In Greece, authorities launched a major firefighting operation after a new wildfire erupted west of Athens. 

More than 210 firefighters, assisted by volunteers, specialized ground teams, and 29 aircraft and helicopters, were deployed to prevent the flames from spreading through dense pine forests near Mandra.

Greek officials also urged residents in parts of Thessaloniki, the country's second-largest city, to remain indoors and keep windows and doors closed after toxic smoke spread from a recycling plant engulfed by fire. 

Earlier evacuations included three suburban areas and a residential facility housing 157 people with disabilities.

Authorities arrested a 76-year-old man on suspicion of negligently starting the wildfire after sparks from his vehicle allegedly ignited roadside vegetation. He is expected to appear before prosecutors.

Meanwhile, firefighters in Spain continue efforts to contain a wildfire that broke out on Friday in the northeastern Girona region. 

The blaze has consumed around 2,200 hectares, and emergency officials in Catalonia warned that full containment may not be achieved immediately due to the fire's continued spread.

Southern Europe has experienced increasingly destructive wildfire seasons in recent years as prolonged drought and extreme heat intensify fire risks, with scientists warning that climate change is contributing to more frequent and severe wildfires across the region.