Wildfires in south-west France flare up as region braces for new 40C heatwave
Firefighters in south-west France are struggling to contain wildfires in the Gironde region as a new 40C heatwave approaches. The situation remains critical, with thousands evacuated and concerns mounting over the impact on nearby Bordeaux.
Why it matters
The recurring wildfires and extreme heat underscore the escalating threat of climate change to European infrastructure and public safety.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Laura Gozzi The race to stop the French woodland fires in their tracks Firefighters in France are working around the clock to contain wildfires that have been raging in the Gironde region, while bracing for another sharp rise in temperatures.
"The fire is like David against Goliath," said Eric Brocardi, spokesman of the national firefighters' federation.
Four of his colleagues had died in recent weeks across France, he said, and 2,000 had been deployed in the Gironde to contain the flames, which for days have ravaged the countryside between the coastline and Bordeaux.
According to regional prefect Sophie Brocas 14 places that had already been hit by the fires saw new flare-ups on Tuesday. "We are not in the clear," she said.
This summer's fourth heatwave was expected to start by Wednesday, bringing temperatures in the area to 40C.
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