Forest fires increase due to careless visitors and climate change; EU coordinates aid for high-risk nations.
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Lithuanian State Forest Enterprise reports 76 forest fires in Lithuanian forests up to June 9th, covering 35.90 hectares, an increase from 41 fires covering 24.09 hectares in the same period last year. While fires from uncontrolled grass burning are decreasing, there is an increase in fires caused by irresponsible visitor behavior, exacerbated by climate change factors like drought and high temperatures. Authorities urge visitors to use designated fire areas, properly extinguish fires, and not litter. VMU is implementing a comprehensive national fire prevention system, which includes monitoring, extinguishing, maintaining firebreaks, installing water collection points, conducting preventive patrols, and placing informational signs. Globally, forest fires have increased over the last 20 years due to climate change, with Greece, Spain, Portugal, and France being the most affected countries. European nations are preparing with various measures; for instance, Greece mandates land clearing with penalties, and France has mobilized extensive firefighting equipment, including specialized aircraft and personnel. The EU is coordinating support for high-risk countries, planning to deploy nearly 650 firefighters and 22 firefighting aircraft across several member states during peak fire seasons to bolster local response capabilities.
