Wildfires in Europe displace thousands

Wildfires across southern Europe force thousands to evacuate as water-dropping aircraft and residents rally to contain the flames.

Wildfires in Europe displace thousands as residents join the fight

A curated AP photo gallery shows wildfires burning in Spain, Greece, and France as crews race to contain them. Water-dropping planes and helicopters deploy to douse the flames, while locals and volunteers bring buckets, branches, and improvised barriers to protect homes.

The images span multiple locations, including Larouco in Spain, Patras in Greece, Fontjoncouse in southern France, and scenes from London and Edinburgh. The fires have displaced thousands and highlight the growing pressure on emergency services and regional disaster response budgets.

These scenes underscore a broader shift toward longer and more dangerous fire seasons in southern Europe. Climate conditions and dry vegetation intersect with urban risk, turning hot days into potential flashpoints. The gallery also reveals social resilience, as neighbors and volunteers coordinate under stress while professionals work to prevent worse damage.

Beyond the flames, the collection points to the limits of improvised responses. Volunteers are essential, but sustainable preparation, better forest management, and shared resources across borders will shape how Europe handles future blazes. The story is as much about policy as it is about the smoke and ash.

Highlights

The flames fade, but preparation for the next season must begin now.