Wildfires Across Europe: Greece and France Battle Intensifying Blazes

ATHENS, Greece (AP) — Two Greek firefighting helicopters collided midair while combating a wildfire west of Athens. One aircraft crashed after the incident. The Greek fire department confirmed the recovery of four crew members, noting that two were safely found, while two were unconscious.

The disaster highlights the significant dangers inherent in Europe’s escalating wildfire crisis. Strong winds intensified fires around Athens, leading to new evacuations. In France, a massive wildfire continued to burn a vast area, while efforts in Spain managed to halt major fires.

Rising Concerns in Greece

The flames advanced through western Attica, around Athens. This threatens local communities and an industrial zone near Megara. Strong winds hindered firefighting efforts, impairing aerial water collection. The area resonates with grim memories; a 2018 wildfire in Mati tragically claimed 104 lives.

A drone view of burnt areas near Megara showed the extensive damage left in the wake of the wildfire.

The mayor of Megara ordered evacuations as fears grew of a repeat of past disasters.

France’s Ongoing Struggle

France’s largest wildfire remained contained but active, leading to 224,000 evacuations. This marks significant civilian displacement since wartime. Hot spots persisted within a vast burnt zone, and thousands lacked home access. Nearly 3,000 firefighters worked to contain fires in Gironde and Provence.

The total region impacted by wildfires in France this year spans over 1,170 square kilometers. Mechanic Matthieu Plessis lamented the destruction of a family home destroyed in Gironde’s fires.

Europe’s Escalating Wildfire Threat

Europe’s wildfire risk grows yearly. The continent recorded its worst year in 2025, with over 10,000 square kilometers burned. Nearly 800 deaths have occurred over four decades. Climate change exacerbates wildfire conditions, doubling the likelihood of extreme weather events.

Spain faced deadly fires that killed 13 and declared a national emergency. Most major fires stopped progressing by the weekend, yet the situation remains precarious. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasized a national strategy to tackle increasing wildfire challenges.

Firefighting Efforts and Continued Challenges

Efforts near Athens involved 500 firefighters and extensive aerial support. However, gale-force winds hindered operations. Key areas such as the Porto Germeno community required urgent attention.

Elsewhere in Greece, fires threatened locations on Kefalonia and Halkidiki. On Crete, firefighting efforts had previously claimed two lives. Local residents, including farmer Minas Tzortzanis, described the destruction in catastrophic terms.

Across southern France, separate fires in the Var department prompted significant evacuations. Plans for reconstruction began as fires stabilized. However, the threat of future flare-ups persists.

In the wake of these disasters, calls for stronger climate and firefighting policies grow louder. Collaboration among European nations remains crucial in mitigating the increasing wildfire threats.