Europe is facing a severe heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 104°F (40°C), fueling devastating wildfires across southern Europe, particularly in Greece. International aid is pouring into the country to combat the blazes, which have intensified under the relentless heat.

Multiple evacuations have been ordered near Athens as firefighters work tirelessly to protect forests, industrial areas, and residential properties. The fires have prompted a continuous, round-the-clock effort to contain the flames and prevent further damage.

Firefighting teams and aerial support from various nations, including Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Italy, France, and Israel, are collaborating with Greek authorities to tackle the spreading fires. This international cooperation underscores the severity of the situation and the need for a unified response.

Residents in affected areas have shared harrowing accounts of the fires reaching their homes. Some, like Varvara Paraskevopoulou near Athens, described having to evacuate but then returning to help neighbors protect their properties. Many homes and businesses have been destroyed, leaving communities devastated.

The intense heatwave impacting southern Europe is the second in recent weeks, pushing temperatures to extreme levels. These conditions are particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations, especially the elderly, as excessive heat and humidity can hinder the body's ability to regulate temperature.

Across Europe, people are taking measures to cope with the extreme heat, seeking refuge in air-conditioned spaces and limiting outdoor activities during peak hours. The heatwave has also raised concerns about the long-term impact of climate change and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events.

A man observes a burning shipyard in Mandra, west of Athens, on July 18, 2023. The image captures the intensity and devastation of the ongoing wildfires.

The World Meteorological Organization has reported that June 2023 was the hottest June on record globally. This alarming statistic highlights the urgency of addressing climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate the severity and frequency of such extreme weather events.

The deployment of international firefighting resources to Greece is part of a broader European Union civil protection initiative. This mechanism aims to provide coordinated support to countries across southern Europe throughout the summer months, recognizing the increased risk of wildfires during periods of extreme heat.