Key facts
- Spain and Italy have sent firefighting resources to Portugal to combat wildfires.
- A large wildfire in Portugal's Vouzela area has burned approximately 12,000 hectares.
- Hundreds of firefighters are battling blazes in both Portugal and Greece.
- Authorities in Greece warned of toxic smoke from a wildfire at a recycling plant near Thessaloniki.
- A 76-year-old man was arrested in Greece on suspicion of negligently starting a wildfire.
Spain and Italy have sent firefighting resources, including personnel and aircraft, to Portugal to assist in combating significant wildfires amid a severe heatwave. In Portugal's Vouzela area, over 1,200 firefighters backed by hundreds of vehicles and 15 aircraft are working to extinguish a blaze that has burned approximately 12,000 hectares. Meanwhile, in Greece, hundreds of firefighters are battling multiple fires, including a fast-moving blaze at a recycling plant near Thessaloniki that has caused toxic smoke and prompted evacuation alerts. Authorities have urged residents to stay indoors. A 76-year-old man has been arrested in Greece on suspicion of negligently starting a wildfire, with fire officials stating that a majority of Greek wildfires are caused by negligence.