Europe’s peak summer travel season is facing mounting disruption as wildfires intensify across the continent, with authorities warning that the coming week could bring some of the most dangerous conditions of the year.

New data from the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS) shows 434,976 hectares have already burned across the EU in 2026 far above the 346,836 hectares recorded by this point last year and more than double the 20‑year average.

Yet the number of fires remains similar to 2025, suggesting individual blazes are becoming larger, faster‑moving and far more destructive.

The fires have also produced 17.98 million tonnes of CO₂ since January, more than twice last year’s levels and well above long‑term norms.

Extreme danger ahead

EFFIS forecasts very extreme fire danger from July 29 to August 5 across wide areas of western and central Europe, including France, the Alpine region, northern Italy, the British Isles, and Ireland.

High‑risk zones also stretch across Spain, Portugal, parts of the Balkans, and North Africa.

Southern Scandinavia, eastern Europe and additional North African regions face very high danger, while only northern Scandinavia and parts of eastern Europe are expected to see relatively low risk.

Impact on travellers

The warnings come during Europe’s busiest holiday period, with millions heading to beaches, mountains and national parks.

Tourism agencies are urging visitors to stay alert to local advisories, follow evacuation orders immediately, and avoid any activity that could spark fires, especially in forests and protected areas.

EFFIS part of the Copernicus Emergency Management Service, says that unless weather conditions improve dramatically, 2026 could become Europe’s most destructive wildfire season on record.