© picture alliance / Anadolu | Orhan Kuzu
The European Union is intensively preparing for a forest fire season that promises to be heavier and longer. A record 777 firefighters from 14 countries are being pre-deployed to high-risk areas in southern Europe. In addition, 22 fire-fighting aircraft and 5 helicopters from the EU reserve rescEU are on standby as additional support.
"Firefighters from all over Europe have one mission: to protect people, homes and forests," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said about the summer 2026 preparations for possible forest fires. "As part of our largest-ever operation, nearly 800 firefighters will be stationed where the risk is greatest, while European aircraft are ready to spring into action at any time. This is European solidarity in action."
"When fires threaten communities, Europe acts in unison," echoed Hadja Lahbib, European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management. "I am proud of the firefighters who are on standby in high-risk areas across Europe before disaster strikes, ready to help where it's needed, with the support of the EU."
"Together with our fleet of firefighting aircraft and helicopters and experts working around the clock, we put European solidarity into action. When every minute counts, good preparation saves lives, protects livelihoods and preserves our environment," her words read on the website of the Directorate General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid.
A fire hub is being reopened at Paphos Airport in Cyprus with six aircraft stationed for rapid interventions and training. "In early May, for the first time ever, the Netherlands activated the European Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) to request assistance in fighting forest fires. That never happened this early in the year," Lahbib said. "The season starts earlier, ends later and strikes more forcefully: last year more than one million hectares in Europe went up in flames, or the entire area of Cyprus. A record."
During the season, the European Crisis Center (ERCC) coordinates assistance, supported by experts, the Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS) and satellite data from Copernicus for monitoring and rapid response.
Picture: © picture alliance / Anadolu | Orhan Kuzu