Firefighters in Bulgaria are battling fires in nearly 100 areas, destroying homes and evacuating residents amid record temperatures.

On Sunday, July 27, Bulgaria was hit by devastating wildfires in almost 100 areas, with thousands of hectares of forest affected, particularly in the foothills of the Pirin mountains. In the town of Simitli, several houses were destroyed and strong winds forced the withdrawal of more than 200 firefighters. Another fire devastated the village of Rani Lug and authorities evacuated three villages. The interior ministry described the situation as serious as countries in south-eastern Europe face record temperatures.