A massive wildfire in southern France has now been contained after scorching an area of 16,000 hectares (39,537 acres) of forest and villages. The blaze, which began on Tuesday, has killed one person who disregarded evacuation orders, injured 18 people, including 16 firefighters, and destroyed 36 houses.
The fire, which is France’s largest since 1949, was fueled by strong winds and dry vegetation following months of drought in the region. It forced over 2,000 residents and holidaymakers to flee their homes and left many without power, with around 1,500 homes still without electricity on Thursday evening.
Firefighters remain deployed in the area to prevent flare-ups, while local authorities have barred residents from returning to their homes without official clearance due to hazardous conditions. The region’s deputy prefect said the fire had significantly decreased in progression due to changes in weather conditions.
Environment Minister Agnes Pannier-Runacher blamed the fire on climate change and drought in the region, stating that it is a consequence of rising temperatures. An investigation into the cause of the blaze is underway.
The fire has left many residents in shock, with one resident saying “we have nothing” after losing access to basic services like water, internet, and electricity. Scientists warn that the Mediterranean region’s hotter, drier summers put it at high risk of wildfires.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/climate-energy/massive-french-wildfire-now-contained-16000-hectares-affected-local-authorities-2025-08-07