An important forest fire The fire is spreading this Wednesday, 22 July 2026, between Saumos and Le Porge, in the Gironde. The fire is located around 15 kilometres from Lacanau, in an area that is very popular during the summer holidays.
At 7.30 pm, the Minister for the Interior, Laurent Nuñez, announced that 600 hectares had been ravaged by the fire. The minister said that 500 firefighters were battling the blaze. The authorities have evacuated 600 people.
Forest fire in Gironde: the blaze is spreading towards Le Porge
The fire broke out in the afternoon near the Route de l’Esquirot. It quickly grew in intensity and spread towards Le Porge. A vast pine forest lies in its path.
The flames have reached the Porge waste collection centre. The site has suffered significant damage and is no longer open to the public. Thick black smoke remains visible from Lacanau-Océan and several neighbouring towns.
Fire between Saumos and Le Porge: 600 people evacuated
The authorities in Gironde have evacuated 600 people from the area between Saumos and Le Porge. Laurent Nuñez said that the emergency services were preparing for further evacuations in response to the fire’s rapid spread.
The municipality of Le Porge is providing shelter for the affected residents in its village hall. The authorities had already evacuated several houses as well as a transit site occupied by dozens of caravans. The 4th RIISC and its DIR have also been mobilised.
Fire near Lacanau: eight aircraft are assisting the fire brigade
Some 500 firefighters are on the ground. The emergency services are also awaiting reinforcements from the Vendée to continue the fire-fighting efforts throughout the evening and into the night.
Eight water-bombing aircraft are supporting the teams. The fleet comprises two Canadairs, two Dash aircraft and four Air Tractors. The authorities have also closed several roads to protect the public and facilitate the passage of emergency services.
Fire in Saumos in the Gironde: could it have been caused by human activity?
The local forest fire service suspects the fire was caused by human activity. A wood chipper being used to clear a forest track may have sparked the fire.
The authorities have not yet definitively confirmed this theory. At 7.30 pm, they reported no injuries. Firefighters were continuing to battle the blaze in what was described as a very difficult situation.