Moscow, April 7, 2025 – Worsening wildfires across Siberia have destroyed at least 65 buildings, including 33 residential homes, as strong winds continue to hamper firefighting efforts in multiple regions, according to Russia’s Ministry of Emergency Situations (EMERCOM).
The most severe damage has been reported in the Republic of Khakassia, as well as the Krasnoyarsk and Irkutsk regions. Emergency officials told TASS, the state news agency, that gale-force winds have spread the flames rapidly through populated areas, overwhelming local fire brigades and emergency responders.
To support the overwhelmed teams, additional rescue units from the Tuva Republic and Kuzbass region have been dispatched to Khakassia.
In total, wildfires have affected 16 regions across Russia over the past week. While firefighters managed to contain 111 fires burning across nearly 15,000 acres, 55 blazes remain active, including 18 that have been localized but not yet fully extinguished.
The crisis is compounded by extreme weather, which has damaged critical infrastructure. Hurricane-level winds have torn roofs from 570 homes and cut power to 62 settlements across Siberia. The Russian Meteorological Service has placed 14 regions on alert due to the ongoing severe weather conditions.
Escalating Climate Risks
The Siberian wildfire season has grown increasingly intense in recent years, driven by rising temperatures, dry conditions, and unpredictable wind patterns, which scientists link to climate change. In past seasons, fires have caused widespread ecological damage, disrupted air quality across national borders, and contributed to carbon emissions exceeding those of some industrialized nations.
Russian officials have not yet reported casualties from the most recent fires, but evacuations are ongoing, and damage assessments continue. The Emergencies Ministry has urged residents to avoid open flames and report any signs of fire to authorities immediately.
Sources:
- Russian Emergencies Ministry via TASS, April 7, 2025
- Russian Meteorological Service
- EMERCOM official updates, April 2025
Wildfire Picture by Stefan Doerr via imaggeo.egu.eu
