Wildfires Kill One, Burn Thousands Hectares Across France, Spain Amid Heatwave

Southern Europe is currently battling severe wildfires fueled by an intense heat wave and dry conditions, with southern France and Spain particularly affected. In France's Aude region, the largest wildfire of the year has burned over 11,000 hectares, destroyed at least 25 houses, caused one fatality, and left another person missing, prompting the deployment of nearly 2,000 firefighters and widespread evacuations. Meanwhile, in southern Spain near the resort town of Tarifa, a rapidly spreading forest fire forced evacuations of tourists and locals from hotels and campsites, with officials describing it as the fastest-spreading fire they have ever witnessed. Authorities across France, Spain, and Portugal have issued high-level fire warnings, mobilizing firefighting forces and warning of ongoing risks due to forecasted soaring temperatures that may reach up to 41°C. The heatwave is expected to persist for several more days, exacerbating the wildfire threat across the Mediterranean region. Officials have urged the public to act responsibly amid concerns of arson and the challenging weather conditions.