This Saturday, 26 July, caution is advised around the Mediterranean. In the Bouches-du-Rhône and certain areas of theAude, from the Var and the Vaucluse, the situation is critical, with a red alert indicating a ‘very high’ risk.
The weather conditions are significantly exacerbating the threat. The mistral and tramontane are blowing strongly, drying out the vegetation and making it easier for any fire to spread. According to the weather forecast, these strong winds are expected to continue until the start of next week.
A risk largely caused by human activity
Nine out of ten fires are caused by human activity. A single moment of carelessness can be enough to trigger a major fire. It is therefore essential to adopt the right habits: do not throw away cigarette ends, and do not have barbecues or carry out work that produces sparks in or near the forest.
The authorities would like to remind the public that failure to comply with the preventive measures is punishable by a fine of 750 euros. To find out about local restrictions, it is recommended that you consult the information available on the the relevant prefecture.
You can also view the fire risk alert map updated daily.
Have you witnessed a fire breaking out?
If you see a fire breaking out, call the emergency services immediately on 112. Once you have reported it, you can also report it online: report a forest fire.