Foto: Lovguiden Billedarkiv / AI-genereret
- Wildfires destroyed 2.2 million hectares in WHO's European region in 2025 – an increase from 1.4 million hectares in 2022.
- In Spain and Portugal, the number of wildfires has more than doubled since last year; Madrid declared a national state of emergency.
- Around 63,000 people were evacuated in Southern France, and 80 homes were destroyed, according to French authorities.
- WHO warns that smoke from wildfires exacerbates heart and lung diseases and can lead to cognitive impairment.
- UN Climate Chief Simon Stiell: Faster transition to renewable energy is key to protecting against climate disasters.
The Scale of the Crisis
Wildfires destroyed 2.2 million hectares of land in WHO’s European Region in 2025 – a significant increase from 1.4 million hectares in 2022. In Spain and Portugal alone, the number of wildfires has more than doubled since last year.
Madrid declared a national emergency on Friday as wildfires near the capital forced 10,000 people to evacuate. The head of the regional government said these fires are the worst ever.
In southern France, about 63,000 people were evacuated following multiple fires that have already destroyed about 80 homes, according to national authorities.
Wildfires destroy homes and livelihoods, force evacuations, and place enormous pressure on emergency services and health systems. Tragically, they also claim lives, WHO wrote in a press release.
Climate Change as a Driving Force
According to WHO, climate change is intensifying wildfires and increasing their frequency. Rising temperatures, drier conditions, and increased urbanization are extending the wildfire season.
Energy Transition as the Solution
Simon Stiell, the UN’s top climate official, stated on Friday that accelerating the transition to renewable energy is key to protecting populations from escalating climate disasters, including wildfires.
Action now is the basis of long-term peace and security around the world, Stiell said.
Health Impacts Beyond the Flames
Smoke from wildfires can worsen heart and respiratory conditions, especially among older people, children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic diseases, WHO warns.
Particulate matter from wildfire smoke contributes to lung diseases, liver diseases, eye infections, as well as cognitive impairment and memory loss, according to WHO. Wildfires can also disrupt access to healthcare and other public services, as well as affect mental health.
How to Protect Yourself
WHO advises people living in or travelling through areas affected by wildfires to follow official instructions, move away from active fires when it is safe, avoid unnecessary travel, and wear a well-fitting protective mask if they must go outdoors.
Governments should provide timely weather alerts, clear health advice, and accessible primary and emergency care, along with special assistance for the most vulnerable groups.
We are working with countries to assess risks, plan for emergencies, develop guidance to protect people from smoke and extreme heat, and make health services and facilities more resilient, WHO Europe wrote.
WHO’s comprehensive public health advice on wildfires can be found here.