A major forest fire broke out in Gironde, between the towns of Saumos and Le Porge, requiring a massive mobilisation of emergency services amid particularly adverse weather conditions. In the wake of the deadly fire in Mérignac, which claimed the lives of two firefighters, the authorities are redoubling their efforts to bring the flames under control.
According to the latest update from the Gironde Prefecture, more than 800 hectares had already been consumed by the flames by 9.00 pm; this figure has since risen to around 1,000 hectares, as confirmed by the town hall of Saumos. The weather conditions, described as ‘adverse’, are hampering the rescue operation, particularly as nightfall has forced the air support to suspend its flights.
500 firefighters and aerial resources mobilised
In view of the scale of the disaster, significant human and material resources have been deployed. No fewer than 500 firefighters are deployed on the ground, supported by aerial and ground resources: 2 Dash aircraft, 2 Canadair aircraft, 4 Air Tractor aircraft and 150 ground-based fire-fighting vehicles. Their mission is to contain the spread of the fire and protect populated areas.
“Priority is being given to public safety and the protection of property,” says the prefecture, which is coordinating operations in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
Nearly 5,000 people evacuated as a precaution
Pre-emptive evacuations increased during the evening. Around 700 residents of the commune of Le Porge were forced to leave their homes, whilst 3,500 people staying at a campsite were rehoused at Lacanau. A travellers’ camp was also evacuated, bringing the total number of people displaced to nearly 5,000.
Local authorities and the emergency services have set up reception centres to accommodate those affected by the disaster, in collaboration with civil protection organisations. Residents affected are advised to keep up to date with the latest information via the prefecture’s official channels and to consult the map of current fires to keep up to date with developments.
To report a fire or a dangerous situation, members of the public can use the online reporting form.