More Than 100,000 Evacuated as Wildfires Spread Across France and Spain

Thousands of residents and tourists have been evacuated from parts of France and Spain as large wildfires continue to spread across several regions amid hot, dry, and windy weather.

Authorities in both countries have requested additional support from the European Union as emergency services work to contain multiple active fires.

Large-Scale Evacuations in France

French authorities ordered the evacuation of nearly 60,000 people from the Cap Ferret peninsula, located south of Bordeaux, as wildfires approached residential and tourist areas.

Boats were used to transport hundreds of people to safety, while others left the peninsula by road. An additional 23,000 people were evacuated from homes and campsites in the nearby Landes region.

Emergency shelters were established in schools and public buildings to accommodate affected residents and visitors.

Wildfires Continue Near Madrid

In Spain, officials reported that more than 19,000 people had either been evacuated or advised to remain indoors in communities west of Madrid.

Emergency authorities said two major wildfires merged into a larger fire, increasing the risk to nearby towns. As a precaution, residents of several care facilities, including elderly and vulnerable individuals, were safely relocated.

Spanish officials described the fires as among the most significant the Madrid region has experienced in recent years.

Weather Conditions Increase Fire Risk

Strong winds, prolonged dry conditions, and high temperatures have contributed to the rapid spread of wildfires across parts of southern Europe.

Fire crews from across France and Spain continue to work to contain the blazes, while authorities monitor changing weather conditions that could influence firefighting efforts.

European Union Provides Additional Support

Following requests from both countries, the European Commission announced the deployment of additional aerial firefighting resources.

The support includes:

• Four water-bombing aircraft for Spain.
• Three water-bombing aircraft for France.

The additional resources are intended to assist national emergency services in controlling the fires and protecting affected communities.

Authorities Urge Public to Follow Safety Guidance

Officials have advised residents and travelers in affected regions to:

• Follow evacuation orders and official instructions.
• Stay informed through local emergency updates.
• Avoid entering restricted or fire-affected areas.
• Prepare for possible travel disruptions while firefighting operations continue.

Emergency services remain on high alert as authorities continue to assess the situation and respond to changing weather conditions across the affected regions.