EU Activates Civil Protection Mechanism to Battle Devastating Wildfires in Gironde and Var

France is grappling with severe wildfires in its South-West and Var regions, prompting President Emmanuel Macron to request urgent assistance from the European Union. On July 23, 2026, Macron activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (MEPC), enabling the deployment of crucial aerial firefighting resources from multiple EU member states. This response includes two Croatian Canadairs, two Portuguese Air Tractors, and heavy Black Hawk helicopters from the Czech Republic and Slovakia, coordinated via the EU's RescEU initiative.

The situation is critical, especially in Gironde, where 800 firefighters are battling a fire that has consumed 10,000 hectares, forcing the evacuation of 35,000 people. Nearby, a fire near Biscarosse has scorched 2,500 hectares and prompted the evacuation of around 25,000 residents and tourists. Meanwhile, in Var, the Gros Bessillon fire has burned approximately 2,500 hectares. It remains active but is somewhat contained, thanks to favorable weather and intensive efforts involving 1,100 firefighters. Despite these efforts, 30 to 40 homes have been damaged, and nearly 500 evacuees have sought shelter.

Since January 2026, France has suffered a drastic rise in wildfire damage, with over 50,000 hectares burned—three times more than during the previous year. The European Commission has reaffirmed its solidarity by dispatching three aircraft from the RescEU fleet and activating the Copernicus satellite mapping service to assist in emergency response.

Due to the ongoing threat, several roadways in affected areas have been closed to allow emergency services unimpeded access, and electricity outages have impacted hundreds of homes in Cotignac and Pontevès, although restoration efforts have reduced these numbers substantially.

The MEPC has proven vital in managing such disasters since 2001, having been activated over 830 times, including previous wildfire support to France in 2022. France currently operates 12 water bombers, with plans to expand to 14 by 2028 and 16 by 2032-2033. With over 32 active fires across the country, the collaboration between French firefighters and European aerial resources remains critical in combating these unprecedented wildfires.