For this Monday, 17 August, the authorities in Var have ordered the complete closure of all mountain ranges in the department due to an unprecedented fire risk. Access, traffic and work in these areas are strictly prohibited, an exceptional measure justified by weather conditions that are extremely conducive to the spread of fires.
Six mountain ranges at extreme risk – an unprecedented level
The department has six mountain ranges classified as extreme fire risk : the Toulon Mountains, Sainte-Baume, the Haut-Var, the Centre-Var, the Corniche des Maures and the Maures. Three other mountain ranges – the Estérel, the Canjuers plateau and the Hyères Islands – are at very severe risk. This level of danger has not been reached for several years.
The Var Fire Brigade, on high alert, have stepped up their monitoring and response measures. Land and air patrols will be deployed around the clock to detect any outbreaks of fire and respond as quickly as possible. Teams are also ready to evacuate the most at-risk areas if necessary.
Motorway service area closures and adverse weather conditions
To minimise risks, several service areas have been closed on the A57 and A8 motorways. On the A57, the service areas at Gonfaron, Les Sigues, Le Suvé du Vent and Les Lauvets are inaccessible. On the A8, the service areas at Sainte-Hilaire, Barcelone, Candumy, Roudaï and Jas Peliquot are also affected.
The weather forecast for this Monday, 17 August, is set to make the situation even worse: gusts locally exceeding 60 km/h, temperatures close to 40 °C and very low humidity will create a dangerous combination that could cause the flames to spread very rapidly. Everyone must remain extremely vigilant; even a single moment of carelessness could start a fire with tragic consequences.
Check the map of current fires. Strictly observe the restrictions in force. Any activity likely to cause sparks is prohibited in high-risk areas.