Wildfires continued to burn across parts of southern Europe on Sunday as firefighters battled major blazes in Portugal, Greece, and Spain, while the United States faced the aftermath of a deadly heatwave followed by severe storms that left nearly one million customers without electricity.

Wildfires Continue Across Portugal, Greece, and Spain

Hundreds of firefighters remained deployed across Portugal, Greece, and Spain as authorities worked to contain multiple large wildfires fueled by hot, dry conditions and strong winds.

In central Portugal, more than 1,200 firefighters, supported by hundreds of vehicles and aircraft, continued battling a wildfire that has burned for several days and scorched approximately 12,000 hectares. Spain and Italy sent firefighting crews and aircraft to assist Portuguese authorities as part of the European Union's emergency response.

In Spain, firefighters continued efforts to contain a wildfire in the northeastern Girona region, where nearly 2,200 hectares have burned since Friday. Officials warned the blaze could remain active despite ongoing operations.

Greece Warns Residents Over Toxic Smoke

In Greece, authorities urged residents in parts of Thessaloniki to stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed after a wildfire engulfed a recycling plant, producing hazardous smoke.

Another major wildfire also broke out west of Athens, prompting the deployment of more than 200 firefighters, volunteers, and aerial firefighting units in an effort to contain the flames before nightfall.

Greek authorities said a 76-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of accidentally starting the Thessaloniki-area fire through negligence. Fire officials also noted that around 85% of wildfires in Greece are linked to human negligence, including sparks from machinery, discarded cigarettes, and outdoor barbecues.

Deadly Heatwave Followed by Powerful Storms in the U.S.

Meanwhile, the United States experienced the effects of an intense heatwave that officials believe contributed to at least 19 deaths in New Jersey, with many victims reportedly found in homes without air conditioning.

The heatwave shattered temperature records across parts of the northeastern United States, including New York and New Jersey, before giving way to severe thunderstorms.

The storms knocked out electricity to nearly one million homes and businesses across several states, including Michigan, Pennsylvania, and New York, while damaging infrastructure, toppling trees, and triggering localized flooding.

Forecasters warned that additional thunderstorms and flash flooding remain possible in parts of the northeastern United States as recovery efforts continue.