France: Wildfires in south July 25 /update 1

Event

As of Tuesday, July 25, fires continue to rage in Haute-Corse and Var in the south of France, despite the fact that they have seemingly been contained throughout previously-affected areas. Three thousand hectares of land have been destroyed in the departments of Vaucluse, Var, Alpes-Maritimes and Corsica in southeast France after fires broke out on Monday, July 24. Some 2000 fire soldiers have been deployed and France has now asked the European Union for two firefighting aircrafts to combat the flames. 

Although no fatalities have been reported, five firemen have been injured, and fifteen policemen fell ill due to smothering smoke in their attempts to control the blaze. 

All of southeast France is currently on high alert due to the heightened risk of fires. Strong wind, potentially reaching 90 km/h (56 mph), is forecast until Wednesday, July 27. All access to forests in the departments of Bouches-du-Rhône and Var is prohibited until further notice.

Since June, the south of Europe has been affected by a wave of wildfires due to strong winds, dry conditions, and severe temperatures.

Advice

Individuals are advised to exercise caution when traveling in areas affected by wildfires, to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and to keep abreast of the situation.