A forest fire broke out on Thursday 23 July 2026 in the early afternoon at Saint-Julien-des-Chazes, in a remote forest area. Adverse weather conditions helped the fire to spread, prompting the rapid deployment of significant ground and air resources to contain the blaze.
A large-scale emergency response
No fewer than 114 firefighters were deployed to the scene, supported by specialist equipment to tackle the forest fires. Among them, six Forest Fire Response Teams (GIFF), including one from SDIS 26 (Drôme) and another from SDIS 63 (Puy-de-Dôme), were deployed to reinforce the local teams. A Logistics Group (GALIM), a Command and Support Group (GCS) and a Command Post (CP) were also activated to coordinate operations.
From the air, two water-bombing helicopters (HBE) carried out 54 drops to contain the flames and protect sensitive areas. A drone was also used to assess the fire’s progress and guide the teams on the ground. The Departmental Fire and Rescue Operations Centre (CODIS) was placed on red alert, reflecting the scale of the operation.
A well-preserved hamlet, but some damage to property
Thanks to the rapid response of the fire brigade, a hamlet was spared from the flames, thereby preventing more serious loss of life and property damage. Several hundred hectares of forest were also saved, limiting the ecological impact of the fire. However, the fire did consume 43 hectares of vegetation.
The fire also had an impact on infrastructure: 250 people in the area were left without electricity, and an SNCF railway line was temporarily closed to facilitate access for the emergency services and ensure their safety.
Operations are continuing
In the early afternoon, the fire brigade were continuing their operations to douse the area and treat the firebreaks to prevent the fire from reigniting. Weather conditions remain a key factor in how the situation develops. To keep up to date with the latest news on the ongoing fires, please visit our fire map or report a fire via our dedicated platform.
Caution is still advised in the department, where the risk of fire is higher during the summer months. Find out the levels of weather watch to anticipate dangers.