▲ A wildfire scene in Andalusia, Spain
European nations are struggling as record-breaking heatwaves fuel the spread of wildfires and force the suspension of nuclear reactor operations.
In France, a fire broke out in the Fontainebleau Forest, located approximately 60 kilometers southeast of the capital, Paris, leading to the partial closure of the A6 motorway, a major route connecting the north and south of the country.
French authorities have dispatched two firefighting aircraft to the Paris region and deployed over 100 firefighters to extinguish the blaze.
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez stated that wildfires across the country have already consumed 17,000 hectares (170 square kilometers) of land.
Minister Nunez estimated that once the final damage assessment is complete, the total affected area could reach 25,000 hectares, which is double the size recorded during the same period in 2025.
Amid the extreme heat, three nuclear power plants in France have also ceased operations.
According to the French daily Le Parisien, Électricité de France (EDF) announced that it has suspended operations at three nuclear plants and reduced output at eight others due to the heatwave.
Under French safety regulations, nuclear plants must keep the temperature of water discharged after being used for cooling below a certain level. The decision to reduce power generation was made because the temperature of nearby river water has risen abnormally high.
The heatwave is also affecting outdoor sports events. The organizing committee for the Tour de France cycling race decided to shorten the race route by approximately 30 kilometers as temperatures along the course approached 40°C (104°F).
The death toll from a massive wildfire that has struck the Andalusia region in southern Spain continues to rise.
Juan Manuel Moreno, President of the Regional Government of Andalusia, stated that the wildfire, considered the worst in history, has so far resulted in 12 deaths and 8 injuries.
It is estimated that approximately 1,400 people have evacuated their homes to escape the fire, and the affected area has reached 6,600 hectares (66 square kilometers).
In the United Kingdom, warnings have been issued regarding an exceptionally high risk of wildfires.
According to the fire severity index compiled by Natural England, a government agency responsible for improving the natural environment, the wildfire risk in southern England and the Midlands has risen to the highest level, described as "exceptional."
Most other regions in England and Wales are also expected to maintain a very high level of wildfire risk.
(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)
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