Cape Ferret: headland at the tip of Lège-Cap-Ferret, Gironde
Since mid-July, a series of fast-moving wildfires has scorched large areas of France and Spain, forcing hundreds of thousands to flee. French authorities have mobilised soldiers, masks and international firefighting aircraft as flames approach Bordeaux and fires burn near Paris, the Var and Fontainebleau. Extreme heat and drought have fuelled unusually early, violent fires.
European wildfires have expanded across France, Spain and neighbouring regions, prompting mass evacuations and international aid. Authorities warn the crisis will persist as heatwaves, drought and shifting winds drive flames toward populated areas. Firefighting resources are being deployed from multiple countries to curb the blazes.
Since late July 2026, fast-moving wildfires have forced more than 200,000 people to flee across southwestern France and central Spain. Fires have scorched tens of thousands of hectares, pushed toward Bordeaux and towns west of Madrid, injured firefighters and prompted France to deploy soldiers while Spain has declared a national emergency.
Wildfires in south-west France and central Spain have forced hundreds of thousands to flee homes and holiday spots. France has mobilised the army and requested EU support as authorities declare a national emergency in Spain. Evacuations hit Cap Ferret, Bordeaux, and Madrid areas; fires remain volatile with continued heat and wind.
A series of unprecedented wildfires are sweeping through southwestern France and central Spain, forcing hundreds of thousands to evacuate. Authorities warn the blazes are fierce and unpredictable, with climate-driven heat and winds complicating firefighting efforts. Macron pledges support; Spain’s Sanchez calls for climate action as fires intensify.
Wildfires have ravaged large areas west of Madrid and across the Gironde and Landes regions, forcing tens of thousands to evacuate. Authorities report stabilisation in some areas, while heatwaves and drought deepen risk. Residents return home or relocate as the crisis continues to evolve in Spain, France and nearby countries.
Wildfires across France and Spain have forced mass evacuations and disrupted travel; insurers warn many policies lack disaster coverage, while authorities urge travellers to check local advisories and their coverage before planning trips. The situation remains active as firefighters battle blazes and governments coordinate responses.
A record-hot, dry European summer has intensified wildfires in Greece, France and beyond. Two helicopter crews have died in Greece amid fierce winds; thousands have evacuated in France, and the UK reports its driest July in two centuries as fires burn on multiple fronts.