7 hours ago
- A series of devastating wildfires in Spain, including the largest in recorded history, have been fueled by extreme heat, drought, and land abandonment.
- Rural exodus and afforestation with flammable species like pine and eucalyptus have increased fuel loads, making fires more intense.
- Experts argue that fire suppression spending outweighs prevention, and that involving local communities in land management and controlled burns is essential.
- Climate change exacerbates fire risk, but structural issues like land abandonment and monoculture plantations are key drivers.