Originally published at The Crux
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Firefighters in France and Spain were bracing for more challenges on Tuesday, as a spell of hot and very dry weather was making its way through southwestern Europe, where wildfires continue to threaten life and property.
There is no rain in the forecast for the next several days.
The heat and aridity are exacerbating already very difficult conditions for emergency responders battling blazes in different regions across both countries.
Meteorologists expect the heat wave to peak tomorrow in France, but they say Spain’s hot and dry weather may last into the coming week.
On Sunday of this week, Pope Leo XIV prayed for victims, responders, and all those affected by the wildfires, which have now destroyed hundreds of thousands of acres and driven more than a quarter-million people from their homes.
“In light of the devastating fires that have affected various parts of France and Spain in recent days,” Leo said, “I express my closeness and invite everyone to pray for those affected and for the work of the rescuers.”
The pontiff made his appeal in remarks following the Angelus prayer this Sunday at Castel Gandolfo, the papal summer residence.
