Massive Wildfires in Southwest France Prompt Evacuations and European Aid Appeal

Severe wildfires in the Gironde and Landes regions of Southwest France have led to the evacuation of over 40,000 people, marking one of the worst fire crises of the season. The fires have burned more than 10,000 hectares of forest, including a massive blaze threatening the Cap-Ferret peninsula. Authorities overnight from Thursday to Friday ordered a total evacuation of the Cap-Ferret peninsula and have activated intense firefighting efforts.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced on July 24, 2026, the activation of the European Union's civil protection mechanism to bolster resources amid the exceptional wildfire situation. France is receiving assistance from two Croatian Canadair aircraft, two Portuguese Air Tractors, and two heavy Black Hawk helicopters from the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Additionally, an A400M military aircraft, capable of dropping up to 20 tons of retardant, is scheduled to join firefighting operations.

The Gironde region is under red alert for forest fire risks, with several campsites evacuated. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez described the Gironde fires as the largest of the season, with 40,000 individuals evacuated or in the process thereof. Approximately 80 homes have been destroyed, with around 50 completely burned down. Evacuations are facilitated by maritime shuttles and ongoing road departures.

Meanwhile, in the Landes department, over 23,000 residents have been evacuated due to the fire near Biscarrosse, which has consumed more than 2,500 hectares. Firefighting efforts involve over 600 firefighters and 70 gendarmes, with reinforcements arriving to combat the blaze.

A related wildfire crisis persists in the Fontainebleau forest massif, where extended prefectural orders restrict access and traffic to prevent further outbreaks. Around 525 firefighters continue to monitor two significant fires at Noisy-sur-École and Grand-Parquet, with additional minor fires quickly contained. Despite the extreme dryness and depleted resources due to ongoing national incidents, authorities strive to contain all blazes.

President Macron praised the efforts of firefighters and rescue teams and urged continued vigilance from the public. Since January 1, approximately 50,000 hectares have burned across France, nearly tripling last year's figure at the same time. Evacuation efforts and firefighting operations continue as the situation evolves.