Europe is being ravaged by wildfires amid an unprecedented heat wave

A wildfire just 24 miles from St. Tropez has forced thousands of residents and tourists to evacuate the French Riviera, as reported by the Associated Press.

The blaze has burned over 12,000 acres of forest in this popular European vacation spot. Some evacuees found refuge in a holiday center designated for Air France employees. Thankfully, there have been no fatalities linked to this particular fire, according to local reports.

In Greece, shifting winds have ignited another major wildfire that poses a threat to a village near Athens.

This recent fire started on Monday near the Vilia area, approximately 37 miles from the Greek capital. Nearby buildings and a nursing home were evacuated as hundreds of firefighters battled to bring the flames under control.

This month, Greece has been besieged by hundreds of wildfires, largely due to the country's most severe heat wave in decades, which has left the landscape dry and highly vulnerable to rapidly spreading flames.

In addition to the blazes in Greece and France, many regions across Europe are suffering from wildfires amid an intense heat wave and drought. At least 75 fatalities have been reported in Algeria and 16 in Turkey, while a wildfire in a popular tourist area of Portugal is currently contained but still active.

As of now, there are no reports of flight disruptions to or from Greece, the French Riviera, or other areas in the region, although delays and cancellations due to wildfires are not unusual.

Alongside wildfires, extreme heat, and significant drought, travelers should brace for additional hazards and interruptions. For instance, if you notice hazy skies and detect smoke, it could indicate poor air quality, which poses serious health risks. Visitors should also be aware of potential power and water shortages.