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The Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) has recorded a significant increase in intensity and emissions from wildfires in the eastern Mediterranean during the second half of July, particularly in Greece. In accordance with the GFAS dataset, the emissions from these wildfires have been the highest for this period of time in Greece in the last 21 years.
Since 17 July, several wildfires have been affecting Greece, with those in Attica and Rhodes being particularly notable. The emissions of these wildfires have reached record levels, with an estimated total of 1 megaton of carbon emissions between 1 July and 25 July, almost doubling the July 2007 record, following several days of high intensity fires.
CAMS senior scientist, Mark Parrington, comments:
“The current ongoing heatwave affecting Greece and the Mediterranean has increased the wildfire risk which is reflected in the high observed intensity of the wildfires around the Mediterranean.”
“With several more weeks left in the summer we will continue to closely monitor the fire emissions and potential air quality impacts across the region.”
CAMS forecasts of particulate matter and other pollutants associated with wildfire emissions have shown smoke transported southward across the Mediterranean, confirmed by visible imagery of the smoke plumes from different satellites. This shows how these wildfires will affect the air quality downwind of the fires both locally and around the wider Mediterranean region. Keeping track of the smoke transport is key to take the appropriate measure the minimise any potential impacts.
CAMS provides up-to-date information on the location, intensity, and estimated emissions of wildfires around the world, including the tracking of their smoke transport and impacts on atmospheric composition. CAMS data is freely available to use and can serve as a vital aid in decision-making processes for citizens, businesses, and stakeholders in related sectors alike.
