12,000 evacuated as wildfires rage in France’s Gironde region

French authorities have evacuated about 12,000 people from the south-western Gironde region as firefighters battle a series of wildfires that have already destroyed more than 2,000 hectares of land.

The evacuations include thousands of tourists, with officials imposing strict restrictions in forest areas to prevent the fires from spreading further. Several roads have been closed, while the use of both fuel-powered and electric engines has been prohibited in high-risk zones.

The latest emergency comes days after two French firefighters lost their lives while responding to wildfires near Bordeaux Airport, a tragedy that has prompted nationwide tributes. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez honoured the fallen firefighters, praising their service and expressing support for their families.

The Gironde region remains under the highest wildfire alert as authorities warn that hot and dry conditions continue to fuel the threat.

Elsewhere in southern Europe, Italy is also battling dozens of wildfires, particularly in Sicily, where more than 350 fires have been recorded in recent days. One firefighter, Alessandro Marchi, died while tackling a blaze in San Cataldo, prompting tributes from government officials.

Sicilian authorities say several communities were evacuated as a precaution, with emergency teams working to contain at least 10 major fires. Officials believe most of the blazes were caused by human activity.

Spain is facing a similar challenge, with firefighters continuing efforts to control a wildfire near Madrid. While many evacuated residents have returned home, emergency services remain on high alert amid warnings of extreme fire risk and temperatures expected to exceed 36°C.

The wave of wildfires comes as Europe experiences another summer of intense heat. Climate experts have repeatedly warned that rising temperatures and prolonged drought conditions are increasing both the frequency and severity of wildfires across the continent.

Source: BBC