The year 2025 is remembered in Europe as the season of the most terrible forest fires. Since the beginning of the year, over 1 million hectares of forests in the European Union have been set on fire, causing significant damage to nature and ecological systems. This information is based on statistics reported by Euronews.
So far, the season has become record-breaking for Europe: the area affected by fires has increased four times compared to last year. Experts compare the damaged area to the size of the island of Corsica. This year alone, more than 1,800 fires have been recorded in European forests, releasing 38 million tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
Among the 27 European Union countries, only the Czech Republic, Estonia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, and Malta have not suffered from fires. The highest number of fires occurred in Italy and Romania: more than 450 cases were recorded in both countries.
Significant ecological losses were also observed in Spain and Portugal. In Spain, more than 400 thousand hectares burned, and in Portugal, more than 260 thousand hectares were destroyed, which is about 3% of the country’s territory.
According to experts, the main causes of the fires are extreme heat and prolonged drought. Climate change and high temperatures create favorable conditions for the rapid spread of fire. Even a small spark can turn into a massive blaze, posing a serious threat to people and nature.
To prevent further spread of fires, scientists and ecologists recommend regularly clearing shrubs, removing dry and dead plants, and properly managing livestock grazing. Additionally, the consequences of fires remain dangerous for health even after they are extinguished.
“Smoke and related respiratory diseases continue to pose a threat to human health,” say experts.
Thus, the year 2025 has already been recorded as a record year for the number of forest fires and the area of affected territories in Europe, although the season is not yet over. The danger to nature and the population remains high.
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