Europe scorched: 2025 ranked among hottest years with record wildfires and drought

Nearly all of Europe experienced above-average temperatures in 2025, as climate pressures intensified across the region, according to a new joint report by the World Meteorological Organization and the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service.

The findings show that at least 95% of Europe recorded higher-than-normal temperatures during the year, which also saw unprecedented environmental extremes including record-breaking wildfires, rising sea temperatures, and prolonged heatwaves.

Wildfires alone burned through more than one million hectares of land—an area larger than Cyprus—marking the highest annual total ever recorded in the region.

The report further highlighted severe drought conditions, with more than half of Europe affected as early as May 2025. Overall, the year ranked among the three driest in terms of soil moisture since 1992, placing increased strain on agriculture and water resources.

In addition, Europe’s sea surface temperatures reached their highest levels on record, while 86% of the region experienced intense marine heatwaves.

Scientists warn that the data underscores the accelerating impact of climate change, with rising temperatures contributing to more frequent and severe environmental challenges across the continent.