Massive wildfires are raging in France and Spain, causing multiple fatalities and forcing hundreds of thousands of people to evacuate their homes.
The recent wildfires have broken records for size in both France and Spain, and triggered massive evacuations – likely the largest either country has seen in peacetime. Around 330,000 people have been forced to leave their homes and holiday spots.
Spain and France have seen over 700,000 acres burn this year due to intense heat waves across Europe. Officials estimate more than 400,000 acres have been lost in Spain alone, with another 300,000 acres burned in France.
By Wednesday morning, firefighters had managed to get some of the largest fires under control in both countries. However, with temperatures predicted to rise again this week, officials warned the danger wasn’t over and continued to move thousands of people out of areas at risk.
The European Union’s emergency center has cautioned that several more countries are likely to face increased danger from wildfires in the weeks ahead.
Maria Zuber, who leads the European Union Emergency Response Coordination Center, said Wednesday that the next area likely to be affected is Greece and parts of Central Europe.
Greece has been temporarily spared from a concerning situation, and it now appears that assistance will be directed there. Italy could face challenges starting in early August, and we need to monitor the Iberian Peninsula closely. If problems arise there too, it could create a widespread crisis across Europe, she explained.
Here are ways you can help the victims impacted by the wildfires.
Red Cross
The Red Cross is helping people affected by recent events in both Spain and France. National Red Cross teams are on the ground providing vital assistance like temporary housing, food, water, healthcare, and other necessities to thousands who have been forced to leave their homes.
I’m seeing that the Spanish Red Cross, known as Cruz Roja, is collecting donations right now to help with the wildfires. They’re working hard to provide support, and this is how we can help!
You can support the French Red Cross’s efforts to fight the fires in southwestern France by donating to your local branch. You can find links to donate here and here.
World Central Kitchen
I’m really impressed with what World Central Kitchen is doing right now. For those unfamiliar, it’s the incredible organization started by chef José Andrés – a true humanitarian. They’re already on the ground in both Spain and France, stepping up to provide much-needed meals to people affected by these devastating wildfires. It’s fantastic to see them mobilizing so quickly to address hunger amidst this crisis.
You can donate to its efforts in Ávila, Spain, here and those in Bordeaux, France, here.
Secours Populaire Français
The French charity Secours Populaire is asking for volunteers and donations to help those impacted by the recent devastating wildfires in areas like Gironde and Landes, as well as across France.
The current situation is critical and will continue to be difficult for some time, the organization explained. Even after the fires are out, people will still need assistance to rebuild their homes and handle paperwork, those who are alone will need emotional support, and local businesses will need help getting back on their feet.
You can make a donation here.
Sud Ouest Solidarité
Sud Ouest Solidarité, the charity connected to the Sud Ouest regional newspaper, is collecting donations to help those impacted by the recent fires, as well as the firefighters battling them.
The group announced on social media Tuesday that their fundraising campaign has brought in almost 500,000 euros so far.
You can donate here.
2026-07-29 21:06