The devastating fire that recently struck the Pyrénées-Orientales continues to raise questions about its origins. A thorough investigation has been launched to determine the exact causes of the blaze, but initial findings highlight several points of interest.
The rapid and large-scale deployment of firefighters from SDIS 66, both on the ground and in the air, is a testament to the seriousness of the situation at the start of the fire. The emergency services were inundated with calls, illustrating the panic and the gravity of the situation in this area with a high concentration of tourists, as the fire spread at an alarming rate. The weather conditions – with moderate to strong winds, swirling gusts, intense drought and high temperatures – exacerbated the spread of the fire, making the firefighters’ task even more arduous.
Several local councillors highlighted the problem of ‘shanty-towns’ in this area, a practice involving the illegal construction of shacks or makeshift dwellings. This increased density of dwellings has created a multitude of critical areas that the fire service had to protect in real time, making their operation all the more complex.
Another major issue was raised: the legal obligation to clear undergrowth (OLD). It appears that several homes and businesses had failed to comply with this essential regulation, thereby contributing to the rapid spread of the fire. The failure to clear undergrowth not only increased the risk of fire but also made the fire service’s work considerably more difficult.
It is therefore vital, whilst awaiting the findings of the investigation, that residents and local authorities recognise the importance of the regulations in place and the need to comply with them in order to ensure everyone’s safety.