Severe heatwaves and forest fires impact Europe
In early July 2026, Portugal faced significant forest fires, primarily in the Vouzela community of the Viseu region, which scorched over 100,000 decares of land. More than 1,100 firefighters, supported by 380 vehicles and eight aircraft, were deployed to contain the flames. The Portuguese government activated the European Civil Protection Mechanism, requesting assistance from Spain and Morocco. At least nine people were injured, including two in serious condition, due to burns and falls. Meanwhile, a late June heatwave resulted in approximately 3,700 excess deaths across France, the Netherlands, and Belgium. France reported 2,025 additional deaths, while Belgium recorded a surge in mortality linked to extreme temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in some areas.