Direct Relief Monitors Emergencies in Europe and Asia

European Wildfires

Massive wildfires across France and Spain have forced more than 300,000 people to evacuate or seek shelter as firefighters battle extreme heat, dry conditions and strong winds.

In France, fires have threatened communities and tourist areas near Bordeaux. Spain is responding to multiple major fires, including a blaze in Ávila described as the largest in the country's recent history. Extreme heat of over 100 F is expected to create more difficult conditions for firefighters. This is France's third heatwave of the season.

The European Union has deployed firefighting aircraft, helicopters, personnel and vehicles from several countries to support the response.

Wildfire smoke can travel far beyond the areas directly threatened by flames. Fine particles in smoke can irritate the eyes and respiratory tract, reduce lung function and worsen asthma and other cardiovascular or respiratory conditions. Children, older adults, pregnant women and those with existing health conditions face increased risks.

Direct Relief is monitoring the fires and communicating with partners regarding potential health and humanitarian needs. The organization has responded to wildfires around the world, including with dedicated kits, resilient power projects, and PPE.

Japan Earthquake

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Kumamoto, a prefecture located on Japan's southern island of Kyushu on Tuesday, July 28.

The earthquake damaged roads, bridges and buildings, triggered fires and power outages, and disrupted rail and air travel. A shopping center in Kashima Town partially collapsed due to an explosion, leaving people trapped or missing. Local authorities anticipate fatalities at the location. Approximately 300,000 people were instructed to evacuate as rescue operations continued.

A tsunami advisory was issued for coastal areas after the earthquake but was lifted within two hours. Authorities warned residents to remain alert for additional strong shaking.

Earthquakes can produce complex medical needs, including crush injuries, fractures, burns and head or spinal injuries. Damage to roads, hospitals and other infrastructure can also interrupt access to medicines, emergency services and continuing care for people with chronic conditions.

Peace Winds Japan, a local Direct Relief partner, has deployed response teams to affected areas to assess needs and support response efforts, as needed. Direct Relief is continuing to closely monitor impacts and ongoing response efforts to coordinate and support appropriate response strategies. Direct Relief previously responded to the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan.