How is climate change affecting forest fire risk in Europe?

Key messages

(15 Dec 2016)

• Fire risk depends on many factors, including climatic conditions, vegetation, forest management practices and other socio-economic factors.
• The burnt area in the Mediterranean region increased from 1980 to 2000; it has decreased thereafter.
• In a warmer climate, more severe fire weather and, as a consequence, an expansion of the fire-prone area and longer fire seasons are projected across Europe. The impact of fire events is particularly strong in southern Europe.

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