Bordeaux Mayor Refutes Evacuation Rumors Amid Gironde Wildfires

The mayor of Bordeaux, Thomas Cazenave, has firmly denied circulating rumors and foreign media reports suggesting the city is planning a total evacuation due to the ongoing Gironde wildfires. Despite the massive wildfire that has burned nearly 42,000 hectares and displaced approximately 220,000 people, Bordeaux, with a population of 270,000, remains safe and without evacuation orders. The fire is currently 25 to 30 kilometers from Bordeaux and about 15 kilometers from the metropolitan area near Martignas-sur-Jalle, which has already been evacuated.

While the city experiences an orange smoke-filled sky and a strong burning odor, there is no immediate danger to Bordeaux inhabitants. Transport disruptions continue with the A63 highway closed over 60 kilometers and SNCF train services suspended south of the city. A reception center for evacuees at the Bordeaux exhibition center currently hosts 2,500 people, down from previous days, with sustainable housing solutions being pursued using over 500 private housing offers.

Meanwhile, solidarity efforts have been mobilized in nearby Bergerac, with centralized collection points for essential supplies to support firefighters and displaced residents. Helplines have been established for information, donations, and volunteer coordination. The community is urged to use official channels to avoid fraudulent activities and to report any grassroots initiatives for wider support.

Mayor Cazenave reassured the population, stating, "We are always ready for all scenarios," but emphasized that there is no reason to alarm citizens without a formal evacuation plan. These clarifications come as authorities continue managing the intense wildfire crisis affecting the Gironde region.