Wildfire near Bordeaux spreads, thousands evacuated
A large wildfire in the Gironde department of southwestern France has already consumed 800 hectares, prompting the evacuation of several thousand people including about 3,500 tourists from a campsite. Authorities have issued the highest red alert for wildfires.
A wildfire broke out Wednesday morning in the village of Somas in the Gironde department and has rapidly spread over 800 hectares, according to the prefecture. Approximately 500 firefighters, four aircraft, and 150 emergency vehicles are involved in firefighting efforts under adverse weather conditions. No casualties have been reported so far.
In the afternoon, the department's prefect ordered large-scale evacuations. About 700 residents were forced to leave two areas in the municipality of Le Porge. Meanwhile, around 3,500 tourists staying at the Lagrina campsite were evacuated to the nearby resort of Lacano. Evacuations also took place at Le Porge beach, where approximately 600 cars were parked.
The Gironde department is under the highest red wildfire alert. Authorities urge residents to follow official instructions and exercise extreme caution. Notably, in a separate fire near Bordeaux airport on Tuesday, two firefighters died when their vehicle was trapped by flames.
