Albania, Spain evacuate hundreds as wildfires rage

Hundreds of people were forced to evacuate their homes on Tuesday as wildfires tore through forests near Albania’s capital Tirana and in southern Spain, with authorities warning of extreme fire risk amid soaring temperatures.

Tirana’s outskirts saw flames spread rapidly through dense pine forests, pushing smoke plumes over the city. In Spain’s Andalusia region, fires burned near the towns of Huelva and Seville, forcing rural communities to flee. Firefighters from both countries worked through the night, battling strong winds and tinder-dry conditions that have turned forests into kindling.

Albania’s government declared a state of emergency in several municipalities as temperatures topped 40°C (104°F), part of a prolonged heatwave gripping the Balkans. Spain’s national weather service issued red alerts for extreme fire danger in eight provinces, with over 1,000 firefighters and 20 aircraft deployed across the country. In Albania, 280 people were evacuated from the Llogara Pass area, a popular tourist route, while in Spain, more than 300 were moved from villages in Huelva. No deaths have been reported, but officials warned the fires could spread further if winds pick up.

Climate scientists link the surge in wildfires to rising temperatures and prolonged droughts linked to global warming. Albania has seen a 20% increase in extreme fire events over the past decade, while Spain recorded its hottest May on record this year. Authorities in both countries have urged residents to remain vigilant, as dry thunderstorms and shifting winds could reignite smoldering areas. Firefighters expect to remain on high alert for days, with containment efforts focused on securing evacuation routes and preventing flare-ups in populated areas.