Significant Fire Incident in Martigues: Ongoing Updates and Response
Ongoing wildfire in Martigues prompts extensive firefighting efforts and public safety measures.
Key Points
- • Fire broke out in Martigues at 7 PM on July 17, 2025.
- • 973 firefighters and 320 vehicles are actively combating the fire.
- • 240 hectares are affected, with 120 homes threatened.
- • 104 individuals are being sheltered in emergency facilities.
A major wildfire broke out in Martigues, France, starting around 7 PM on July 17, 2025, leading to an immediate activation of the departmental operational center by the prefect. By 9:45 PM, the prefect took command of the firefighting operations in coordination with local officials. The fire has affected approximately 240 hectares and remains uncontrolled, continuing to produce active hotspots that endanger surrounding areas.
Currently, 973 firefighters are actively engaged in battling the blaze, supported by 320 firefighting vehicles. Authorities report that 104 individuals have been sheltered in four emergency sites as a protective measure. The fire poses a threat to around 120 homes, although detailed damage assessments have not yet been completed. So far, there have been two minor injuries reported among firefighters, while no civilian casualties have occurred.
Traffic on the D5 road between D49 and D9 is restricted to facilitate emergency responses and protect local residents. Authorities are cautioning the public against spreading misinformation related to the incident and have requested that unnecessary calls do not overwhelm emergency phone lines. While firefighters grapple with the blaze, favorable weather conditions such as a 40% humidity level and a shift in wind direction have prompted some hope for improved containment.