Nicosia: The European Commission representation in Nicosia has announced an organized effort to prepare for the anticipated wildfire risks during the upcoming summer months.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the EU is assembling firefighting teams and deploying a fleet of aircraft to support European countries that are likely to be affected by wildfires. This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy to enhance the region’s wildfire preparedness and response capabilities.
To bolster local fire brigades, nearly 650 firefighters from 14 European countries will be strategically positioned in high-risk locations within France, Greece, Portugal, and Spain throughout July and August. These teams are expected to strengthen the existing firefighting forces in these countries. Additionally, the EU is coordinating and co-financing the stationing of 22 firefighting airplanes and 4 helicopters across 10 Member States. These aerial resources are intended to provide rapid intervention capabilities to mitigate the impact of wildfires, complementing the national firefighting capacities.
The strategic deployment includes specific allocations such as four medium amphibious airplanes and one helicopter in France, and four medium amphibious airplanes in Greece. Other countries like Croatia, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Portugal, Cyprus, Czechia, and Slovakia are also part of this initiative, with varying numbers of planes and helicopters assigned based on assessed needs.
Moreover, the EU is prepared to mobilize 19 ground firefighting teams, consisting of approximately 30 firefighters each, along with one advisory and assessment team. These teams will operate under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, working closely with Member and Participating States to ensure a coordinated response to wildfire threats.
The European Emergency Response Coordination Centre will establish a dedicated wildfire support team to monitor risks and analyze scientific data. This proactive approach underlines the EU’s commitment to preemptively addressing disasters exacerbated by climate change and safeguarding lives, homes, and the environment.