Wildfires Force Mass Evacuations in France and Spain

Fast-moving wildfires in France and Spain have forced about 200,000 people to evacuate or shelter at home. These fires are occurring during Western Europe’s peak summer holiday season.

France’s Response

Authorities in France ordered the evacuation of over 140,000 people from the Gironde and Landes regions in the southwest, including areas near Bordeaux. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu highlighted the risk posed by the fires, warning about those that generate their own winds and quickly change direction. So far, the blaze in Gironde has burned approximately 35,000 acres, damaging 53 homes.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez noted the fire’s eastern movement toward Bordeaux, a city with around 800,000 residents. Though Bordeaux itself was not immediately threatened, precautionary evacuations occurred in several suburbs, including areas near the city’s airport. Smoke and ash prompted the evacuation of the entire Cap Ferret Peninsula, affecting thousands of holidaymakers.

This year, wildfires have burned over 240,000 acres in France, setting a new historical record. About 197,000 people have been evacuated from the southwestern regions. Overnight rain and humidity provided some relief, allowing firefighters to dig trenches and set counter-fires. However, unfavorable winds are expected to return.

Spain’s Situation

In Spain, more than 60,000 people near Madrid had to evacuate or stay indoors. The region has seen its worst wildfire history, with more than 321,000 acres burned this year, far exceeding the annual average of 247,000 acres over the past decade.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez acknowledged the complex situation and the temporary opportunity to combat the fires as temperatures decreased. He warned of challenging conditions, with dry thunderstorms and strong winds complicating firefighting efforts. The authorities declared a national emergency in a nearby region.

Efforts to Combat Fires

France has mobilized the military, deploying 500 troops, with an additional 500 joining on Saturday. The country also plans to use an adapted military cargo aircraft, the Airbus A400M, to drop flame retardant on fires.

Mr. Sánchez described the worsening climate emergency and its contributions to more destructive wildfires. Authorities in Spain reported about 80,000 people affected by evacuations or shelter orders by Saturday afternoon.