By Tag Clar Editorial
Following severe wildfires in several countries in southern Europe, thousands of hectares of vegetation have been destroyed, and firefighting forces are battling this natural disaster. The situation in southern France is particularly concerning, where a wildfire in the Pyrenees has seriously injured two people and impacted the schedule of the Tour de France race.
Fire in the Pyrenees
The wildfire in the rugged areas near Trévillach in the Pyrenees began on Saturday and has so far engulfed 1,650 hectares. According to local officials, a firefighter and a local resident have been seriously injured. The local resident has suffered severe burns, and a critical situation prevails in the area.
More than 700 firefighters, 200 vehicles, and about ten firefighting aircraft are involved in the efforts to extinguish this wildfire. Due to strong winds, the fire has intensified again, blocking roads and setting up emergency shelters. One resident who had to evacuate their home said, "The smoke was heavily dispersed in the air, and I saw firefighters everywhere. I felt fear and despair."
Impact on the Tour de France
The Tour de France cycling race, which was scheduled to take place on Monday, has been affected by the wildfires, and it has been decided that the third stage will be held in France without spectators. Officials announced that the promotional caravan will not proceed through this section of the route, and only the passage of cyclists and essential equipment for the race will be allowed.
In Greece, firefighters are still battling wildfires near Thessaloniki, where black smoke has reached the center of the country's second-largest city. Authorities have advised residents to keep their windows closed and avoid unnecessary outings.
In Spain, the wildfire in Costa Brava, which began on Friday, has destroyed over 2,200 hectares of vegetation. Meanwhile, in Portugal, the wildfire in the Vouzela region, which lasted for three days, is now 80% contained. These wildfires have collectively destroyed over 19,000 hectares of land across Portugal, Spain, France, and Greece.
Experts have warned about the impact of climate change on the occurrence of these wildfires, stating: "We are experiencing the consequences of climate change, and we are still at the beginning of the summer season."
