Fast-moving wildfires are tearing through several European countries as scorching heat and strong winds fuel the destruction. In Greece, fires raced through scrub-covered hills in Keratea, about 25 miles southeast of Athens, on Friday. The flames came dangerously close to homes. Nearly 200 firefighters fought the blaze with the help of water-dropping planes and helicopters. Thick black smoke filled the air, making conditions worse.

On the island of Milos, strong winds swept two Vietnamese tourists into the sea. The Greek Coastguard confirmed both had died.

France Reports Fatalities in Aude Region

In France, a wildfire in the Aude region claimed the life of an elderly woman in her home. Two others were injured, with one in critical condition from severe burns. The fire began on Tuesday afternoon and spread quickly across the dry terrain.

Spain Evacuates Coastal Resorts

In Spain, winds of up to 15 mph pushed flames through the Torre de la Peña beach resort in Cadiz. Authorities evacuated bars, restaurants, hotels, and campsites between La Peña and Casas de Porros. Firefighters worked in challenging conditions to contain the spread.

Turkey Declares Disaster Zones

Turkey is facing one of its worst wildfire emergencies in years. Flames are threatening Bursa, the country’s fourth-largest city. More than 3,500 people have been evacuated. Two people have died as dozens of severe fires have broken out daily since late June.

In the forested mountains around Bursa, the night sky turned red from the blaze. Authorities closed the Bursa–Ankara highway and evacuated nearby villages.

The government declared the western provinces of Izmir and Bilecik disaster zones. Another fire near Saricaeli village in Canakkale province forced the evacuation of a university campus and an elderly care home. Heavy smoke led to the closure of the Dardanelles Strait, a key shipping route.

Bulgaria and Montenegro on High Alert

Bulgaria and Montenegro are also battling wildfires. Extreme heat, dry landscapes, and strong winds are creating dangerous conditions across southern Europe.