A wildfire raging in southwestern France near the Spanish border has destroyed about 4,600 hectares of land, prompting the evacuation of around 10,000 residents from more than 20 small towns and villages [1, 2, 3]. The fire is concentrated near Trevillach, in the foothills of the French Pyrénées, and has caused five injuries, including one firefighter [1, 2, 3].
Strong winds on July 6 worsened fire conditions, increasing the risk of further spread. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said, "This morning conditions are deteriorating again. Today the battle resumes." [1, 3] The fire has also disrupted the Tour de France route near Trevillach, leading to public closures and restrictions on team motorcades [1, 2].
The wildfire has also affected Spain, where about 2,200 hectares were destroyed, mostly in the protected Les Gavarres natural area. Catalan police arrested a contractor employee suspected of starting the fire by using an angle grinder near a road [1, 2].
The European Union deployed four firefighting aircraft from Cyprus and Sweden to support French teams near Perpignan [2]. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said, "Europe stands with France." [2]
Southern France has seen multiple wildfires this season, with over 11,000 hectares burned so far—more than double the area burned during the same period last year [3]. Seven French departments remain on red alert for extreme wildfire risk, while 41 others are on orange alert [3].
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez traveled to the Pyrenees-Orientales area on July 6 to assess the situation [3]. French authorities continue firefighting efforts amid deteriorating weather.
An earlier report from July 4 said the fire on the Spanish side was stable and expected to be fully extinguished within the week [2].
Authorities are working to contain the fire and protect threatened communities as officials and international teams battle worsening conditions.
