Above 50% of Europe’s territories is hit by continuous drought for fourth consecutive month, according to recent details of European Drought Observatory (EDO). In July this year, the drought rate amounted to 52%, recording the highest level for that month since the measurements began in 2012.

Extreme phenomena in Eastern Europe and Balkans

Particularly serious is the situation in the Eastern Europe and the Balkans. In countries such as Hungary, the percentage of territories in the alarm phase increased dramatically – from 9% in June to 56% in July. In Kosovo, the corresponding figure rose from 6% to 43%, while Bosnia-Herzegovina increased from 1% to 23%. The constant heat waves affecting the area are accompanied by unprecedented fires, many of which break out into landfills. These fires cause toxic fumes and they are significantly burdened with the environment.

In the Eastern Mediterranean, the Turkey It also faces persistent drought that covers about 60% of the country’s area each month since March. These conditions favor the outbreak of fires, as happened on August 8, when fires in the western part of Turkey forced the evacuation of three towns and caused Interruption of navigation in the Dardanelles.

Western Europe: spreading drought and devastating fires

OR Western Europe It is not unaffected. In France, two -thirds of territories (68%) were hit by drought in July, increased compared to June (44%). The country experienced one of the largest fires in its history, with 130,000 acres burning in the Od area in the southwestern part. France is now confronted with another heatwave – the second for the year.

To United Kingdomhas been observed to improve the situation compared to previous months. However, more than two -thirds of the country continue to face water scarcity.

OR Spain and the Portugal They remain more protected so far, with low drought rates (7% and 5% respectively), compared to the rest of Europe.