Wildfires destroyed 2.2 million hectares of land in the WHO European Region in 2025, compared to 1.4 million hectares in 2022.
In Spain and Portugal alone, the number of forest fires has more than doubled since last year.
Madrid declared a state of national emergency on Friday as wildfires near the capital forced 10,000 people to evacuate. The head of the regional government said the fires were the worst on record.
In the south of France, around 63,000 people evacuated following multiple fires which have already destroyed around 80 homes, according to national authorities.
“Wildfires destroy homes and livelihoods, force evacuations and place enormous pressure on emergency services and health systems,” WHO wrote in a press release. “Tragically, they also cause victims. »
Fueling the fires
Climate change intensifies wildfires and increases their frequencysaid the WHO.
This is because temperatures are rising alongside drier conditions and increasing urbanization, extending the length of the wildfire season.
Energy transition
Meanwhile, Simon Stiell, the UN’s top climate change official, said on Friday that the key to protecting people from escalating climate disasters – including wildfires – was to accelerate the transition to renewable energy.
“Acting now is the basis for long-term peace and security in the world,” Mr. Stiell said.
Impacts beyond the flames
Smoke from wildfires can worsen heart and respiratory problemsespecially for the elderly, children, pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses, the WHO warned.
According to the WHO, particles from wildfire smoke contribute to illnesses such as lung disease, liver disease and eye infections, as well as cognitive impairment and memory loss.
Wildfires can also disrupt access to health care and other public services and affect mental health.
Smoke from a wildfire rises above a forest in Perpignan, France, in early July.
How to stay safe
WHO advises people living or traveling in areas affected by wildfires to follow official advice, stay away from active fires when it is safe to do so, avoid unnecessary travel and wear a well-fitted protective mask if they must go outdoors.
Governments should provide timely weather warnings, clear health advice and accessible primary and emergency care, in addition to special assistance for those most at risk, WHO said.
“We are working with countries to assess risks, plan for emergencies, develop guidelines to protect people from smoke and extreme heat, and make health services and facilities more resilient,” WHO Europe wrote.
WHO public health advice on wildfires can be found here.
