On Tuesday 8 July 2025, a violent fire broke out at Castelnau-de-Guers, in the Hérault, travelling through 3.5 km and 700 hectares, including 400 hectares have already been completely burnt. By the end of the day, the situation had stabilised thanks to an exceptional mobilisation of ground and air resources.
The fire’s perimeter has been reduced, and its spread significantly slowed. The threat on the A9 motorway has now been resolved, and the traffic was restored. The prefecture has announced that 220 caravans were saved, just like eight farmhouses and agricultural estates located in the risk area.
430 firefighters still on duty; damage to crops is feared
To 9.30 pm, 430 firefighters were still hard at work trying to bring the blaze under control. Earlier that day, 750 firefighters were deployed, helping to prevent the worst from happening in nine fire incidents in the department, eight of which were halted at an early stage.
Six Canadairs remained on duty until nightfall to support ground operations. Whilst homes were spared, initial observations on the ground give cause for concern significant damage to the vineyards in the region, which are highly vulnerable to the spread of the flames.
A heartfelt tribute to the firefighters of the Hérault
The Prefect of the Hérault made a point of to publicly acknowledge the work of the fire service, professionals and volunteers, for their dedication during this particularly gruelling day. Thanks to their swift and coordinated action, many lives and properties were saved.
To keep up to date with developments in the Hérault and elsewhere, visit the real-time fire map, the fire risk map and the forest weather.