Severe Storms, High Wildfire Risk Threaten Multiple Regions

A widespread high risk of wildfires is impacting multiple regions across North America and Europe amid ongoing hot, dry, and windy conditions. In Manitoba, Canada, authorities have declared a provincial state of emergency due to the worst wildfire season in 30 years, with over one million hectares burned and active evacuations in place. Similarly, in Texas' Big Country, despite recent rainfall, wildfire risk remains elevated due to abundant ground cover and drought conditions, prompting calls for preventive measures such as maintaining short grass and cautious use of equipment that can spark fires. In Oregon, a Red Flag Warning and Fire Weather Watch have been issued due to thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds, raising the threat of new fire outbreaks, while hot temperatures and breezy winds persist through midweek. Greece faces a very high wildfire risk on July 29 in regions including Attica, Peloponnese, and Crete, with authorities enforcing restrictions on forest access and urging citizens to avoid activities that could ignite fires. These developments highlight the growing challenge of managing wildfire threats amid extreme weather patterns, emphasizing vigilance and preparedness across affected communities.