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In Turkey, firefighters have been battling over 600 fires in drought-affected areas over the past week. Tragically, a forestry worker injured while fighting flames in Izmir province succumbed to his injuries. The fire, located about 100 kilometers east of Izmir, has already claimed the lives of an 81-year-old bedridden man and a 39-year-old forestry worker. Although the blaze was brought under control on Friday, firefighters continued to combat a fire in Dortyol, near the Syrian border, exacerbated by strong winds.
In France, the severe heatwave that began on June 19 officially ended on Friday, lasting 16 days—matching the length of the deadly 2003 heatwave. However, on the same day, major fires ignited in southern regions, prompting authorities to shut down sections of the A9 motorway during the busy summer holiday weekend. Motorists faced traffic jams extending up to 10 kilometers, with water distributed to those stranded in the extreme heat.
In Mireval, near Montpellier, a fire fueled by swirling winds led to the evacuation of about 10 residents. Local resident Lorette Gargaud described the terrifying conditions, with thick smoke and falling ashes making the air nearly unbreathable.
In Greece, a 52-year-old man was arrested on the island of Evia, accused of starting a fire while clearing brush. Greek firefighters remain on high alert due to high temperatures and strong winds, as the region continues to face significant fire risks.