Heatwaves and wildfires: enhancing the EU’s response
On Wednesday, Parliament will debate the need to strengthen the EU’s response and preparedness to protect people against recurring heatwaves and upcoming wildfires.
Europe experienced its third-warmest spring on record in 2026, followed by an exceptionally early heatwave across western Europe in May, and even more intense extreme heat events in recent weeks. The risk of droughts and wildfires is currently growing across the continent.
MEPs are likely to question Commission representatives on EU action taken to prevent and prepare for these reoccurring extreme weather events.
Background
With over 1 million hectares or 10,000 km² of EU land burned by wildfires in 2025, the EU is already expected to deploy the largest ever wildfire response for 2026 summer. 777 firefighters from 14 European countries will be strategically pre-positioned in high-risk areas across Cyprus, Greece, Italy, France, Spain, and Portugal.
Procedure: Council and Commission statements, without resolution
Debate: Wednesday 8 July