An intense heat wave gripping southern Europe has ignited wildfires across the region, claiming at least two lives and injuring four others as of Thursday. Flames continue to devastate mountain forests and vegetation, prompting evacuations and straining emergency services.
In Nova Siri, a municipality in Italy’s southern province of Matera, two firefighters tragically lost their lives on Wednesday afternoon. Giuseppe Lasalata and Antonio Martino, both 45, fell from a cliff while heroically attempting to rescue a family trapped in their home surrounded by advancing flames. Nova Siri’s Mayor Antonello Mele lamented their loss, stating, “They behaved like heroes.”
The relentless heat wave has led to wildfires breaking out almost daily in Italy, particularly in the south and on its islands. On Tuesday, a blaze near Rome disrupted rail connections between the Italian capital and Naples, highlighting the widespread impact of the fires. Urban temperatures in Rome are expected to soar above 38 degrees Celsius in the coming days, exacerbating the risk of further outbreaks.
Authorities across southern Europe are on high alert as they battle the twin challenges of extreme heat and rampant wildfires. Communities are urged to stay vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines to minimize additional casualties and property damage.
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Wildfires rage across southern Europe amid persistent heat wave
cgtn.com
