Wildfires in southwestern France force 44,000 to evacuate; Spain declares state of emergency

At least 44,000 people have been evacuated from southwestern France over the past two days as wildfires continue to ravage the region, destroying 12,500 hectares of forest, the local prefect said Friday. The seaside resort of Lacanau-Ocean has been particularly affected.

Spain's government has declared a national emergency over the wildfires. Hundreds of firefighters, supported by water-bombing planes, are battling the blazes fueled by scorching temperatures and strong winds.

Italy has also reported several wildfires, though exact figures on evacuations and damage are not yet available. The situation remains tense across southern Europe, with emergency services working to contain the spread of the flames.