Spain Fights Historic Wildfires as Thousands Evacuate
Spain battles record-breaking wildfires as thousands flee. More than 20 wildfires are raging across western Spain, pushing firefighters, soldiers, and water-dropping planes to their limits. Authorities report that this year’s flames have already burned a record amount of land, highlighting the growing impact of climate change on southern Europe.
Rising Human Toll
Scorching heat and long months of drought are feeding the fires, which have spread across broad stretches of Castile and León, Galicia, and Extremadura. Entire towns are ordered to evacuate, leaving behind homes, crops, and entire ways of life. The flames have taken lives and property, with two firefighters dying in separate road crashes recently, raising the death toll to six in Spain and Portugal.
A Record Year of Destruction
The European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS) reports that Spain has lost over 343,000 hectares (848,000 acres) to wildfires in 2025, breaking the previous record of 306,000 hectares. Portugal has burned more than 216,000 hectares (533,747 acres) since January, marking one of its worst fire seasons ever. Together, the burned land equals 1.3 million football pitches.
International Aid, Grounded by Smoke
Spain and Portugal have received support from countries across Europe, including France, Italy, Slovakia, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Morocco. However, thick smoke and fierce flames continue to hinder aerial firefighting. Ground crews persist, digging firelines and protecting homes under extreme conditions.
“We Are at War”
Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro described the situation as a war, urging firefighters and citizens to persevere. Extreme weather, now labeled “unprecedented,” has plagued the country for 24 straight days.
Climate Change Fuels the Flames
Experts say global warming has intensified the wildfires, with longer droughts, higher temperatures, and harsher heatwaves. Environmental organizations warn that failing to reduce emissions and improve forest management could make such fire seasons the new normal in southern Europe.
A Faint Breath of Recovery
Spain’s weather service reports that the heatwave, which reached over 45°C (113°F), is starting to ease. Cooler temperatures and lighter winds provide a crucial chance for firefighting teams to gain control. For the thousands displaced, the priority remains safety and survival.
Looking Ahead
Both governments now recognize a long-term crisis rather than a temporary emergency. The scale of destruction highlights the urgent need for climate adaptation and improved fire management. Firefighters continue to battle flames while communities hope to rebuild. For more in-depth coverage, see The Climate Post.
