More than 250,000 people have been forced to leave their homes as massive wildfires continue to burn across southwest France and parts of Spain. The l…
1/8More than 250,000 people evacuated: Wildfires across southern Europe have displaced more than 250,000 people. In France, around 220,000 people have been evacuated from the Gironde region, while another 30,000 were forced to leave their homes in the neighbouring Landes region, according to AP. (Image: AP)
2/8Fire moves closer to Bordeaux: The Gironde wildfire continued to spread towards Bordeaux as strong winds fuelled the flames. Authorities said changing wind conditions could push the fire closer to the city, which is known for its wine-producing region. (Image: Reuters)
3/8Fresh evacuation orders issued: French authorities ordered new evacuations in several towns and parts of Bordeaux’s western suburbs. Emergency alerts were sent to residents’ mobile phones, while officials also carried out door-to-door evacuation efforts in affected areas. (Image: AP)
4/8Massive firefighting operation underway: According to French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez, more than 1,300 firefighters, supported by 18 aircraft and helicopters, are battling the Gironde wildfire. France also deployed an A400M military transport aircraft modified for firefighting, capable of dropping up to 20 tonnes of water or flame retardant. (Image: AP)
5/8Tour de France final stage shortened: The wildfire response has also affected the Tour de France. The Paris police department reduced the race’s final stage from 133 kilometres to 89 kilometres so that police personnel assigned to the event could be redeployed to support firefighting and evacuation operations. (Image: AP)
6/8Roads closed and masks distributed: Authorities partially closed a major highway linking Bordeaux to France’s Atlantic coast as the fire spread. The French government also rushed 1.5 million face masks to the Gironde region to help protect residents from heavy smoke. (Image: AP)
7/8No deaths reported in France: Officials said dozens of firefighters have suffered injuries while battling the Gironde and Landes fires, but no deaths have been reported so far. Emergency crews continue to work to contain the flames and protect communities. (Image: Reuters)
8/8Heat and strong winds fuel wildfire crisis: According to AP, prolonged heatwaves, dry vegetation and strong winds have created dangerous conditions for wildfires across southern Europe. France and Spain have both deployed thousands of emergency personnel, while several European countries have sent aircraft to support firefighting efforts. (Image: Reuters)
