The fire, which broke out on Wednesday in Gironde, continues to spread towards the outskirts of Bordeaux. The flames have already consumed around 30,000 hectares.
Nearly 100 firefighters are battling the blaze on the ground. Teams are attempting to protect homes, infrastructure and the Souge military camp, which lies in the path of the fire. Between Le Porge and Lacanau, in the Longarisse area, bulldozers have been deployed to create a vast firebreak to slow the advance of the flames towards the town.
In coordination with the prefecture, the mayor of Lacanau has launched several brush-clearing operations around the town. Work continued throughout the night.
“XXL” wildfire in Gironde: over 30,000 hectares ravaged by the flames
Experts describe it as a “convective fire”. This phenomenon generates its own air currents and can produce powerful winds. It accelerates the spread of the flames and makes their path difficult to predict.
The authorities have mobilised exceptional resources. The government is sending a further 500 military personnel. Their total number is set to reach 1,000 by this Saturday to support the fire service.
Fire near Bordeaux: 170,000 residents evacuated
The authorities have evacuated seven towns on the outskirts of Bordeaux. The measure affects Saint-Médard-en-Jalles, Le Haillan, Saint-Jean-d’Illac, Martignas-sur-Jalles, Saint-Aubin-de-Médoc, Mérignac and Eysines.
Nearly 170,000 residents have been ordered to leave their homes. The FR-Alert warning has led to numerous calls to the emergency services, particularly in the most recently affected towns.
Fire in Gironde: reception centres opened in Bordeaux
The Bordeaux Exhibition Centre took in up to 2,000 people in the early hours of the morning. The city has also opened the Rocher de Palmer in Cenon and the Arkéa Arena.
Eight additional police and gendarmerie units are taking part in the operations. They are ensuring the safety of the evacuations, managing traffic and monitoring the neighbourhoods that have been evacuated.
The smoke poses a health risk
The government is sending 1.5 million FFP2 masks to Gironde. This equipment is intended to protect residents and emergency workers exposed to harmful smoke.
The Armed Forces Medical Service is also bolstering medical resources. Its role is to assist vulnerable people, particularly children, the elderly and residents suffering from respiratory conditions.
Forest fire in Gironde: emergency response plan activated in hospitals
The authorities have activated the emergency plan in healthcare facilities. This measure enables hospitals to rapidly mobilise staff, beds and equipment.
The government is also requisitioning construction equipment and public transport.
Bison Futé has urged motorists to avoid the Gironde and Biscarrosse to keep the roads clear for emergency services. A ‘red’ alert is in place on major roads, and non-essential journeys are strongly discouraged.
To follow the progress of the fires in real time, check our map of active fires and stay informed via weather alerts.