Southern France Evacuates 10,000 Amid Fiery Pyrenees Blaze
A wildfire near Perpignan in the southern Pyrenees destroyed over 4,600 hectares (11,366 acres) and forced more than 10,000 residents across dozen villages to evacuate. The fire, burning close to the Spanish border, has grown with strong wind conditions and threatens to spread further if not tamed.
French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez warned on state TV that the conflict would resume tomorrow as conditions deteriorated further. Local prefect Pierre Regnault de la Mothe confirmed that the blaze nearly reached homes only 300 metres away, describing the speed of spread as “staggering.”
The heatwave that followed a record‑setting EU‑wide summer in June—temperatures soaring to 40°C—has created a tinderbox situation. Scientists note Europe is warming twice as fast as the global average, adding pressure on the continent’s forests and increasing wildfire risk.
The European Commission sent four aircraft based in Cyprus and Sweden to supplement local firefighting resources. Firefighters also coordinated with Spanish authorities; in the nearby Les Gavarres reserve, more than 2,200 hectares were consumed, while a blaze in the Sierra de Espadan forced the evacuation of 500 people.
The outbreak coincided with the third stage of the Tour de France, which was altered by organisers. Spectators were asked to avoid the finish in Les Angles and to stay away from the final 40 kilometres to allow emergency vehicles a clear path. Race Director Christian Prudhomme emphasised that “an exceptional fire calls for exceptional measures for the Tour.”
For those who have been told to leave their homes, the national body encourages sharing experiences by visiting this online form. Your story may help authorities improve future evacuation plans and community safety.
