- BIST10011,798+3.22%
- USD49.58+0.05%
- EUR55.62+0.09%
- GOLD4,133.40-0.22%
- INTEREST37.00%-1.00
- BITCOIN82,735-0.25%
- October 21, 202611°
- BIST10011,798+3.22%
- USD49.58+0.05%
- EUR55.62+0.09%
- GOLD4,133.40-0.22%
- INTEREST37.00%-1.00
- BITCOIN82,735-0.25%
- October 21, 202611°
EU forest fires destroy over 435,000 hectares
While forest fires in European Union countries this year destroyed nearly 435,000 hectares, Turkey saw a significant drop in the amount of burned area in the same period.
Forest fires that have been burning in European Union (EU) countries since the beginning of 2025 have caused massive destruction, fueled by extreme heat linked to climate change. According to data from the European Forest Fire Information System, as of July 29, the total burned area reached 434,976 hectares. This figure represents an increase of about 25 percent compared to the same period last year.
The burned area, equivalent to roughly 4,350 square kilometers, is 1.7 times the size of Luxembourg and 14 times the size of Malta. Compared to the long-term average for the years 2006–2025, the amount of damaged land this year is roughly 2.5 times higher.
Spain is the most affected country
Spain suffered the greatest damage from the fires within the EU. The country saw 208,420 hectares burned, accounting for nearly half of the total burned area in the bloc. France followed with 91,024 hectares. Italy and Portugal were also among the countries heavily impacted by the fires.
Number of fires rose in July
Last July, the number of fires increased significantly, causing major losses in forest cover. The number of recorded forest fires jumped to 1,407 in that period, more than double the long-term average.
Area burned in Turkey falls
Meanwhile, Turkey experienced a different trend. Data from the General Directorate of Forestry showed a significant decline in forest fire damage in the country. While 57,005 hectares burned in the January 1–July 29 period last year, the area burned in the same period this year shrank to just 1,867 hectares. The number of fires also fell from 1,916 to 1,032.
Stay Updated with Hilal Times
Subscribe to be informed about special news, developments and announcements. We will keep you informed.
By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy
