Over 10,000 Evacuated in Southern France Due to Massive Wildfire
A large wildfire in southern France has forced the evacuation of more than 10,000 people, destroyed thousands of hectares, and prompted EU assistance as strong winds complicate firefighting efforts.
A massive wildfire in the foothills of the Pyrenees near the Spanish border has forced French authorities to evacuate thousands of residents from over a dozen settlements. The fire broke out in the Trevillach area near Perpignan and has already scorched at least 4,600 hectares. Local officials report that the situation remains critical due to strong winds that could further spread the flames.
Emergency services have evacuated more than 10,000 people from over a dozen localities in the Eastern Pyrenees. French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez stated that the situation worsened again in the morning and that the fight against the fire has resumed.
The wildfire has also led to restrictions on the Tour de France cycling race: organizers urged spectators to avoid the final kilometers of the third stage to ensure access for rescue services.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on social media that the EU has sent four aircraft to help France fight the fires.
In recent days, France has been battling multiple wildfires of varying sizes, mainly in the south. Two individuals have been arrested on suspicion of arson. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu reported that 14,500 hectares have burned this season, roughly three times more than the same period last year.
Earlier, it was announced that the late June heatwave may be linked to over 2,000 "excess" deaths in France, a number that could rise as complete data becomes available.
