Wildfires are raging in Greece, Türkiye and other parts of Europe as a deadly heatwave is gripping the continent, causing loss of life, mass evacuations, and widespread damage to homes and livelihoods. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) network has mobilized to support emergency responders and vulnerable communities affected, including migrants, older people, children, and those with chronic illnesses. 

The IFRC warns this is only the beginning. With multiple heatwaves and fire risks expected through September, there is an urgent need to shift from reactive response to proactive preparedness. Governments, municipalities and communities must take early action now—because when we prepare better, we save lives. 

In Türkiye’s Izmir region, wildfires have tragically claimed two lives and forced the evacuation of 50,000 people, with hundreds of houses damaged. On the Greek island of Crete, over 5,000 residents and tourists have been evacuated as fires approach residential and tourist areas. Eastern Germany has seen more than 100 people displaced due to advancing flames. 

In Greece, Red Cross volunteers are working alongside firefighters, providing critical first aid to both emergency personnel and evacuees, including care for displaced pets. 

In Türkiye, Red Crescent teams are delivering essential food, water, and relief supplies to firefighting crews and those forced to flee their homes. 

In North Macedonia, mobile teams are addressing the severe risks faced by people on the move, distributing hydration supplies and sun protection while coordinating with authorities to ensure safe transit amid extreme heat.