France is facing a series of devastating wildfires, which have mobilised hundreds of firefighters and significant aerial resources. Several blazes are still out of control, leading to the evacuation of tens of thousands of people.
Gironde: a fire out of control in Saumos
In Gironde, near Saumos, a fire has already swept across more than 10,000 hectares. Nearly 35,000 people have been evacuated, whilst 800 firefighters are battling the flames, supported by several aerial resources. Despite their efforts, the fire remains out of control and continues to spread, making the situation extremely worrying.
Landes: 2,600 hectares destroyed in Biscarrosse
In Biscarrosse, in the Landes region, 2,600 hectares have been ravaged by the flames. Some 600 firefighters have been mobilised to try to contain the fire, which has led to the evacuation of 23,000 people. The situation remains very tense, with an increased risk of the fire spreading due to the weather conditions.
Var: Fire reignites in Pontevès
In the Var, near Pontevès, a fire has already burnt 2,800 hectares. A significant flare-up has been observed, with 1,000 firefighters deployed to the scene. Around 500 people have been evacuated, and the authorities remain on high alert given the unpredictable behaviour of the flames.
Haute-Corse: 600 hectares burnt near Corte
In Haute-Corse, a fire has swept through 600 hectares near Corte. More than 120 people have been evacuated, and 270 firefighters are battling the blaze, which is still active.
Hérault: 110 hectares on fire to the north of the Thau basin
In the Hérault, near Poussan, 270 firefighters and aerial resources are battling a fire that has already burnt 110 hectares.
Hautes-Alpes: a fire in a hard-to-reach area
In the Hautes-Alpes, in L’Argentière-la-Bessée, 200 firefighters are battling a blaze covering 260 hectares in an area that is particularly difficult to access due to the mountainous terrain.
European reinforcements to support operations
In light of the scale of the fires, France has activated the European Civil Protection Mechanism. International reinforcements are on their way, including two Croatian Canadair aircraft, two Portuguese Air Tractor aircraft and several water-bombing helicopters from Eastern Europe. These additional resources will support the efforts of the French fire services, which are already heavily mobilised.
To track the progress of the fires in real time, visit our map of current fires. You can also report a fire via our reporting platform.