Southern Europe is facing a severe heat wave and numerous wildfires, resulting in significant damage and loss of life. A recent wildfire in Spain’s Mediterranean coast has left at least 12 people dead and four with severe burns. Nearly 20 people are still unaccounted for.

Heat Wave and Wildfires

The heat wave has led to a surge in wildfires across the region, with France and Portugal also experiencing significant fires. The European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS) reports that the number of fires over 30 hectares has nearly doubled compared to the same period last year.

The heat wave has also had a significant impact on public health, with over 2,000 deaths in France attributed to the heat in the last week of June. The French government has reported a 29% increase in deaths among people over 45 during this period.

Environmental Impact

The wildfires have not only caused immediate damage but also contributed to the increase in carbon dioxide and toxic smoke in the atmosphere. This can have long-term consequences for public health and the environment.

The heat wave has also affected France’s nuclear power plants, with the Nogent nuclear plant reducing generation due to high river temperatures. The French utility company EDF has suspended production at another reactor due to high water temperatures.

The heat wave has also led to reduced crop forecasts, with the grain trade association Coceral reducing its forecast for EU and UK corn output. The French corn harvest is expected to be the lowest in two decades.

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.