Record temperatures and wildfires trigger climate adaptation measures across Europe

Record-breaking heatwaves continue to impact Europe, driving significant economic losses and operational adjustments. According to the European Environment Agency, extreme heat has cost the European economy €800 billion since 1980, with a quarter of those losses occurring over the past five years. In France and Spain, severe wildfires have destroyed over 42,000 and 80,000 hectares of land respectively.

In Czechia, the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute reported that 77 percent of long-term weather stations recorded new absolute temperature highs this year. In response to extreme health risks, the Czech armed forces have shifted strenuous training to mornings and evenings, modified equipment, and enhanced fire safety measures. Meanwhile, a recent Median survey indicates that nearly three-quarters of respondents in Czechia believe the government is failing to adequately prepare society for escalating climate extremes.

Sources: Seznam Zprávy, Deník N, Ekonomický deník, iROZHLAS, Český rozhlas Plus.