More than 110,000 people have been evacuated after a fast-moving wildfire tore through France’s Gironde region, destroying vast stretches of forest and prompting one of the country’s largest emergency responses in recent years.
The blaze has already burned around 14,000 hectares (34,600 acres) of land, with firefighters battling extreme heat, dry conditions and strong winds that continue to fuel the flames.
Authorities have ordered large-scale evacuations from several towns and villages as the fire spreads across southwestern France. Emergency shelters have been opened for displaced residents, while road closures and transport disruptions remain in place across affected areas.
Thousands of firefighters, supported by water-bombing aircraft and helicopters, have been deployed to contain the wildfire. Officials said efforts are focused on protecting homes, critical infrastructure and preventing the flames from reaching more populated communities.
UPDATE: More than 110,000 evacuated as wildfire burns 14,000 hectares in France’s Gironde region. pic.twitter.com/hyqAlEqn4V
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Local authorities have urged residents to follow evacuation orders immediately and avoid travelling into the affected areas, warning that weather conditions could worsen the situation.
The Gironde region has experienced several devastating wildfires in recent years, with climate experts warning that rising temperatures, prolonged droughts and increasingly frequent heatwaves are making such extreme fire events more common across southern Europe.
Officials are continuing to monitor the fire’s progression, while assessments of property damage and environmental impact are expected once the blaze is brought under control.
Emergency services remain on high alert as firefighters work around the clock to contain the wildfire and prevent further destruction.