North Africa is currently experiencing the worst drought in six years, with no sign of relief. Southern and Eastern Europe are now facing similar challenges after enduring two years of continuous drought. This warning comes from European researchers and agencies monitoring the development and consequences of droughts.
In recent months, Greece, Italy, Spain, and parts of the Balkans have been severely affected by extreme heat and ongoing drought. These conditions have led to an increase in wildfires and have seriously disrupted agriculture.
Sicily is particularly hard hit, where farmers have warned the government about disastrous consequences of the heat on their crops. Harvests such as olives, grapes, and citrus fruits are severely threatened, and livestock farmers struggle to find enough water and food for their animals. “Animals drink mud as lakes dry up, and farmers are forced to slaughter their animals due to food and water shortages.”
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In Greece, where wildfires have already destroyed dozens of homes and entire villages have been forced to evacuate, the situation is equally grim. In regions like the Peloponnese and Attica, the government has had to implement emergency measures to limit the damage, but EU assistance is essential to prevent further disasters.
Spain is also experiencing severe drought. In the Andalusia region, water reserves are at historically low levels, and farmers fear a further decline in the production of olive oil and other crops. The Spanish government has already imposed water restrictions, but without rain and with temperatures continuing to rise, it is difficult to estimate the long-term impact.
The drought has led to significant yield losses, with some regions reporting up to 90% of their crops destroyed. This not only has direct economic consequences but also threatens to drive up food prices across Europe.
The European Union is being called upon not only to provide immediate financial aid but also to invest in sustainable water management strategies and technologies to make agriculture in Southern Europe more resilient to drought.
Without immediate and coordinated action, Southern European countries risk irreversible damage to their agricultural sectors, which will affect not only the regional but also the broader European economy.