Home / Disasters and Accidents / Wildfires Engulf South France, Spain; 270,000 Evacuated
Wildfires Engulf South France, Spain; 270,000 Evacuated
26 Jul
Summary
- Wildfires in France and Spain have led to over 270,000 evacuations.
- The French army was deployed to combat the spreading blazes.
- British expats described terrifying escapes from encroaching flames.
Wildfires have ravaged southern France and neighboring Spain, forcing the evacuation of over 270,000 people. The French army has been deployed to assist in combating the devastating blazes, which are exacerbated by severe heatwaves. British expatriates recounted terrifying experiences, fleeing their homes as flames rapidly advanced, describing unsettling sounds and the speed of the infernos.
In Spain, a state of emergency was declared due to a wildfire near Madrid, described as the worst in the region's history, impacting approximately 70,000 individuals. The fires have also led to severe air pollution in Madrid. Meanwhile, the Tour de France was shortened to allow for security redeployment to aid firefighting efforts. European Union support, including aircraft, has been sent to aid France and Spain in their struggle against the wildfires.
