Six southern European countries are battling severe wildfires, with authorities in southwestern France warning that one blaze could force a partial cancellation of the Tour de France. The fire near Trevillach has a frontline of 18 kilometers, mobilizing 750 firefighters, 200 vehicles, and nine aircraft.

French officials will decide by Sunday evening whether to cancel Monday's third stage of the cycling race. Two people—a firefighter and a resident—are in life-threatening condition. The route passes near the affected area, but organizers hope to adapt if needed.

In Portugal, a fire since Thursday in Vouzela has scorched 12,000 hectares, with over 1,200 firefighters deployed. Spain and Italy sent reinforcements, including water bombers.

Spain's Girona region saw 2,200 hectares burned, with 50,000 people evacuated or ordered indoors. A man was detained for allegedly starting the fire with an angle grinder.

Greece reported a major wildfire west of Athens, burning through pine forest, and toxic smoke from a recycling plant fire in Thessaloniki. A 76-year-old man was arrested for allegedly starting a blaze with his vehicle.

Major fires also occurred on Croatia's Hvar island and in Albania. The EU has pre-positioned emergency crews from 14 countries in high-risk areas across Cyprus, Greece, Italy, France, Spain, and Portugal.

Source: www.dw.com