13 Jul, 13:46··

Wildfires burn large areas in Spain, France, Germany.

France24

A large number of forests in France and Spain have burned early in the year. Wildfires are happening more often. This is a serious problem for nature.

In early 2026, France saw a record number of forest fires. Over 32,000 hectares burned by July 15th, more than the total burned in 2025. Spain is also losing forest land to wildfires. The fires are made worse by climate change. Experts are worried about these large fires. The situation shows a growing risk of wildfires across Europe.

Summarized from the sources above. Read the originals for the full story.

Highlights

Record Forest Fires

A record number of French forests have burned early in the year.

Spain Forest Loss

Spain is losing a significant amount of forest land to wildfires.

Increased Wildfire Hectares

Over 32,000 hectares have been burned in France this year.

Rapid Fire Starts

France has experienced 250 wildfire starts within 24 hours.

European Wildfire Risk

Wildfires have devastated thousands of hectares in Spain, France, and Germany, highlighting the increasing risk across Europe.

Perspectives

Sources agree
  • Many forests in France and Spain are burning.
  • Wildfires are happening earlier in the year.
  • Climate change is making wildfires worse.
  • Wildfires are a serious problem across Europe.
Sources disagree
Cause of the fires

The fires are a new, unavoidable trend due to climate change.

France24, France24

The fires are being exacerbated by several factors.

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Timeline

2d 3h span
13 Jul, 13:4615 Jul, 16:39
wildfiresclimateEuropeenvironmenteurope