Europe scorches as fires rage; tourists and residents flee
Europe is grappling with extreme heat and fires. In Spain, thermometers show 111°F. In Greece, forests are once again burning, and the highest weather alert has been issued in Italy. On the other hand, Croatia is struggling with fires in the Dalmatian region, which have forced the evacuation of tourists.
10:14 AM EDT, July 20, 2024
Europe is experiencing exceptionally severe heat, which is affecting the lives of residents and tourists in many countries. According to the rmf24.pl portal, the southern and central parts of the continent are experiencing a real hell, with temperatures reaching 111°F in Spain and violent fires in Greece and Croatia.
In Spain, the heat wave struck particularly hard in Andalusia, where mercury levels exceeded 111°F. This phenomenon results from hot and dry air from North Africa, which has also brought Saharan dust.
High temperatures are also prevalent in the Balearic and Canary Islands. Spanish health services warn residents and tourists about the extreme heat, recommending avoiding outdoor activities and frequent hydration.
Wave of fires in Europe. Evacuation of tourists and residents
In Greece, the heat has also reached dangerous levels. On Thursday, thermometers in Athens read 109°F, and strong winds exacerbated problems related to forest fires.
The most severe fires occur north of Thessaloniki and on the island of Kea, where residents and tourists have been evacuated. Greek authorities have closed archaeological parks in Athens and urged residents to exercise caution.
Italy is also facing heat, with the highest alert for 14 cities where the temperature has reached 104°F. The Ministry of Health warns that the alert could be extended to more cities, as extreme weather conditions are expected to persist at least until Sunday.
Croatia is battling fires near the tourist town of Trogir in Dalmatia. Firefighters struggled to control the blaze, which threatened tourists and residents. On Thursday, tourists were preemptively evacuated from hotels and private accommodations, but authorities now assure that the fire is under control and no longer poses a threat.
As reported by the rmf24.pl portal, the extreme weather conditions across Europe are not only a challenge for residents but also emergency services and tourists. In the face of increasingly frequent heat waves and natural disasters, preventive measures and preparedness for possible threats are necessary.
