A suspected arsonist has been arrested in Bulgaria after wildfires, believed to be deliberately set, ravaged parts of the country during a brutal heatwave sweeping across Europe.
Authorities are investigating potential terrorism links as flames engulfed forests and threatened residential areas, forcing evacuations and overwhelming firefighting teams.
Heatwave Fuels Destruction
The fires erupted amid record-breaking temperatures, with Bulgaria experiencing some of its hottest days in decades. Emergency services battled blazes for hours as dry conditions and strong winds allowed the flames to spread rapidly.
Local officials described the scenes as 'apocalyptic', with thick smoke blanketing towns and villages. Residents were seen fleeing their homes as the inferno approached.
Terrorism Probe Launched
Police confirmed the arrest of a suspect believed to have intentionally started the fires. Investigators are exploring possible extremist motives, though no group has yet claimed responsibility.
'We are treating this as a potential act of terrorism,' a senior security official stated. 'The scale and coordination suggest this was more than random vandalism.'
Climate Crisis Worsens Situation
Experts warn that climate change is creating ideal conditions for such disasters across southern Europe. This summer has seen multiple countries grapple with extreme heat and wildfires.
'What used to be exceptional is becoming routine,' said a climate scientist. 'The combination of human action and rising temperatures creates a deadly mix.'
Bulgarian authorities have appealed for international assistance as they struggle to contain the damage and protect vulnerable communities.
