As devastating wildfires continue to spread rapidly in several countries, the European Union (EU) has stepped in to bolster firefighting efforts and provide vital support to affected communities. Since 18th July, the EU has deployed over 490 firefighters and 9 firefighting planes to Greece and Tunisia.
In response to the crisis, both Greece and Tunisia have activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, and the EU has swiftly mobilized support:
- 10 EU Member States (Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, France, Italy, Malta, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Serbia) are contributing to the EU Civil Protection Mechanism’s response to the wildfires in Greece. More than 490 firefighters and 7 planes have been deployed to different areas of the country. An EU Liaison Officer is coordinating operations in Greece, and Copernicus satellite mapping is providing damage assessment for various regions in the Attica region and Rhodes.
- In northwest Tunisia, 2 Canadairs from the rescEU reserve, hosted by Spain, are being deployed to combat the wildfires.
The wildfires, exacerbated by dry weather conditions and high temperatures, pose a serious threat to lives, livelihoods, and ecosystems across the Mediterranean region. The EU Civil Protection Mechanism once again demonstrates its role as a vital instrument of solidarity and cooperation among EU Member States and beyond during emergencies.
The EU’s wildfire response includes the rescEU transitional fleet, comprising 10 medium amphibious aircraft (Canadair type), 14 lighter aircraft (air tractor/fireboss type), and 4 medium/heavy lift helicopters. This reserve complements the EU Civil Protection Pool, which already has 4 medium amphibious aircraft, firefighting teams, and advisory teams in place.
Additionally, the EU has reinforced its Emergency Response Coordination Centre with a dedicated Wildfire support team to monitor, anticipate, and respond promptly to the wildfires.
Member States can activate the EU Civil Protection Mechanism to request assistance in fighting forest fires. The rescEU reserve is mobilized when national means are insufficient to handle the crisis.
Wildfire prevention, preparedness, and response actions are critical in saving lives, protecting livelihoods, and preserving the environment. The EU ensures a coordinated approach to wildfire management, and the Emergency Response Coordination Centre coordinates and finances assistance offered by EU Member States and other Participating States.
The EU’s Copernicus satellite mapping service provides crucial information from space to complement wildfire response operations.
The EU remains committed to providing assistance and support to countries facing wildfire emergencies, strengthening its collective response to disasters in Europe.
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/IP_23_4009