Wildfires rage across France and Spain as thousands flee and flames spread
Wildfires are continuing to burn across large areas of southwestern France, with flames advancing towards Bordeaux as firefighters work alongside farmers and foresters to contain
Wildfires are continuing to burn across large areas of southwestern France, with flames advancing towards Bordeaux as firefighters work alongside farmers and foresters to contain them. More than 40,000 hectares have already been burned in France, with authorities warning that the fire is behaving unpredictably and remains extremely difficult to control.
Farmers are helping supply water, while foresters are assisting the military in creating firebreaks to slow the spread of the flames. Thousands of people have been evacuated from their homes, businesses and livelihoods and are now staying in temporary shelters. Across the border in Spain, wildfires have also burned around 77,000 hectares across Madrid, Toledo and Avila, forcing thousands more people to flee.
Some residents say they had little warning before smoke and ash reached their homes, leaving them scrambling to evacuate. Wildfires west of Madrid slowed overnight, but authorities say the next two days will be crucial before temperatures rise again from Wednesday. In both countries, firefighters are using the current cooler conditions to try to contain the fires before the return of extreme heat.
Al Jazeera’s Charlie Angela reports. Find us on Check our website Check out our Instagram page Download AJE Mobile App
The BriefWire