A severe forest fire is currently raging in the Pyrénées-Orientales, where more than 930 hectares have already been engulfed by flames. According to the latest reports, 580 firefighters are deployed on the ground, supported by 3 columns of reinforcements from outside the department to stem the spread of the damage.
At dawn, the aerial resources resumed their operations at the site. Four Canadair aircraft and the SDIS66 helicopter have been deployed.
The fire is spreading eastwards and southwards
The flames, fanned by the wind, pose a particular threat to the town ofIlle-sur-Têt. The fire is currently along the D2 between Trévillach and Ille-sur-Têt, but continues to move southwards. The authorities are focusing their efforts on protecting populated areas, although no general evacuation has been ordered at this stage.
Security measures and restrictions
Several roads have been closed to traffic to facilitate the work of the emergency services:
- The RD66 between Vinça and Ille-sur-Têt,
- The RD2 and the RD17 also remain closed.
Residents are invited to It is essential to avoid this area and to follow the instructions of the police and the fire service.
Safety instructions
In light of this situation, the authorities are reminding the public of the measures to be followed:
- Please do not overload the emergency lines and dial 112 only where necessary,
- Find out more via the official channels (prefecture, fire service, local media) and refrain from sharing unverified information,
- Please ensure you can be contacted and follow the authorities’ instructions should the situation change.
A call for vigilance
Residents in the affected areas are urged to exercise the utmost caution. No evacuation order has been issued as yet, but the situation remains under close monitoring. The emergency services are reminding people of the importance of share only official information to prevent rumours from spreading.