Wildfire Situation in Gironde Stabilizes as Var Continues to Battle Flames

As of July 31, 2026, the wildfire in Gironde has been stabilized and contained within a 42,000-hectare perimeter, allowing 198,000 of the approximately 220,000 evacuated residents to return home. The calmer weather with cooler temperatures has aided firefighting efforts, supported by combined operations focusing on forest and dune edge management. The prefecture of Gironde has authorized re-entry in around twenty municipalities, including Biganos, Audenge, Lanton, and Andernos-les-Bains. Meanwhile, the SNCF railway is assessing tracks for service resumption, aiming for normal operations south of Bordeaux by Sunday. Despite progress, two hot spots remain under close surveillance. In contrast, the situation in the Var department remains critical. A fire reignited at 1:30 PM near the southern part of the Gros Bessillon massif, driven by strong mistral winds. Prefect Sophie Brocas confirmed the crisis is ongoing, stating, "the crisis is not over, the fire is not contained, but we are making progress." Around 2,500 people have been evacuated in Var, where the fire has consumed 1,000 hectares, described by officials as "beyond comprehension." However, almost 200,000 people displaced by fires in both regions have been permitted to return to their homes as containment improves. The combined efforts and evolving weather conditions highlight a tentative stabilization of the wildfire emergency in Gironde, while vigilance remains paramount in Var.