Forest fires worldwide have reached record levels since the beginning of 2026, warn several scientists, who now fear "unprecedented" heat waves in the coming months. The combination of global warming and the El Niño climate phenomenon could further worsen the global situation.
According to data cited by researchers, approximately 150 million hectares have already been ravaged by flames between January and April 2026. This exceptional area illustrates the rapid intensification of climate-related disasters in many regions of the world.
Africa is among the hardest-hit areas. Damage caused by fires on the continent is 23% higher than the previous record for the same period. In Asia, the situation is even more alarming, with burned areas 40% larger than previous record levels.
Scientists explain that abnormally high temperatures, prolonged droughts, and stronger winds create ideal conditions for the rapid spread of fires. Several countries have already experienced particularly destructive fires in recent months, notably in Japan, South America, and parts of Africa.
The El Niño climate phenomenon, which warms the Pacific Ocean and disrupts global weather patterns, is expected to further intensify episodes of extreme heat this year. Experts fear that this combination with climate change will lead to record temperatures in several regions of the world.
Massive fires also have major consequences for public health, biodiversity, and greenhouse gas emissions. Toxic smoke affects millions of people, while the destruction of forests reduces the planet's natural capacity to absorb carbon.
Faced with this rapid deterioration, scientists are calling on governments to strengthen fire prevention policies and accelerate efforts to combat climate change, believing that the extreme events observed this year could become more frequent in the future.
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