GREurope experienced its worst wildfire season in recent history in 2026, with authorities evacuating around 220,000 people in France and fires spreading to Spain and Greece. The estimated total losses in France alone could reach €10 billion to €15 billion, with insured losses in the billions. Private insurers are expected to cover most of these costs, as wildfires are not included in France’s state-backed natural disaster compensation scheme. Analysts warn that increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires could pose significant challenges for the insurance industry, particularly if they threaten populated areas. Emergency measures were introduced to assist evacuees, including covering hotel stays for those displaced by fires near Bordeaux. The situation highlights Europe’s 'protection gap', the disparity between disaster losses and the portion covered by insurance, with Spain’s 2025 wildfires showing that only a fraction of damages were insured.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced overview of the wildfire crisis, discussing both the financial implications for insurers and the broader issue of climate risk management. It cites multiple expert opinions and reports without overtly favoring any particular political stance. The focus remains on the灾
