The UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) reported that over 434,000 hectares have already burned across Europe in 2026, underscoring the increasing wildfire threat linked to climate change. Paola Deda, Director of UNECE’s Environment and Forests Division, stated, “Every summer reminds us that wildfire is no longer an exceptional event but an increasingly predictable consequence of a warming climate.”

In Europe, wildfires have destroyed approximately 42,000 hectares of pine forest in France's Gironde region, prompting the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents and tourists. Neighboring Spain has experienced more than 200,000 hectares burned, double its historical average, marking one of its worst wildfire seasons in decades. The European Union recently warned that the wildfire crisis is shifting eastward, with Greece and Italy facing heightened risks due to ongoing heat, drought, and strong winds.

Across North America, the United States has recorded roughly 1,849,000 hectares burned so far this year. Canada has faced over 4,000 wildfires, burning 3,770,000 hectares, with many large fires still uncontrolled.

The UNECE emphasized that while emergency responses are vital, the greatest opportunity lies in prevention, sustainable forest management, and building resilient landscapes and communities. The Commission noted that many fires can be prevented through increased public awareness, stronger regulations, temporary restrictions during periods of major fire danger, and responsible behavior in natural areas.

“As climate risks continue to grow, strengthening forest resilience to fire is no longer only an environmental priority – it is an investment in public safety, economic stability and climate security,” the Commission said.

Sources