**Title: Wildfires Surge 57% in Europe Over Four Years, WHO Reports**
**Published: July 25, 2026**
As wildfires continue to ravage various regions across Europe this summer, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a stark warning regarding the alarming increase in wildfire incidents and their detrimental effects on public health. Countries such as France, Germany, Greece, Spain, and Portugal have been significantly impacted, with reports of fatalities among firefighters battling the blazes in France and Italy.
According to data released by the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS), Europe has recorded 1,254 wildfires from the beginning of 2026 until July 22, resulting in the emission of over 8.31 million tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂). This year alone, Portugal and Spain have experienced a staggering 100% increase in wildfire occurrences compared to the same timeframe in 2025.
The WHO's European office highlighted that the frequency and intensity of wildfires have surged by 57% since 2022 across the WHO European Region. In 2022, approximately 2.2 million hectares were scorched by wildfires, while by mid-July 2026, 254,388 hectares had already been devastated by fire.
Hans Henri P. Kluge, the WHO Europe chief, emphasized the urgent need for preparedness as climate change continues to exacerbate the situation. "As climate change drives a warming world, we need to prepare for more frequent and intense wildfires," Kluge stated. He noted that the repercussions of wildfires extend beyond immediate destruction, affecting health and safety even at considerable distances from the fire sites.
Wildfire smoke poses significant health risks, traveling hundreds of kilometers and deteriorating air quality far from the source of the fire. The smoke contains a hazardous blend of pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone, aromatic hydrocarbons, and lead. Additionally, when structures burn, toxic chemicals from household items, such as electronics and plastics, can be released into the environment.
Kluge warned that the health impacts of wildfire smoke could exacerbate existing health conditions, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic illnesses. He urged governments to implement timely alerts regarding wildfires, weather conditions, and air quality, as well as to provide clear health guidance and ensure access to primary and emergency healthcare services.
In light of the ongoing wildfire crisis, Kluge advised individuals living in or traveling through affected areas to adhere to official recommendations. This includes evacuating from active fire zones when it is safe to do so, minimizing unnecessary travel, and wearing well-fitting protective masks when outdoors in areas affected by wildfire smoke.
As Europe grapples with this escalating environmental challenge, the WHO's warnings serve as a crucial reminder of the interconnectedness of climate change, public health, and emergency preparedness. The situation underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts to mitigate the impact of wildfires and protect communities across the continent.