PARIS (AP) — France is battling its largest wildfire of the summer, which has already scorched more land than the entire city of Paris and continues to spread rapidly in the country’s Mediterranean south, near the Spanish border.
The massive blaze erupted Tuesday afternoon in the village of Ribaute, located in the Aude region — an area known for its vineyards and forests. By Wednesday, the wildfire had engulfed more than 13,000 hectares (32,000 acres) and remained “very active,” according to local authorities.
Prime Minister François Bayrou described the situation as “a disaster on an unprecedented scale.” Over 2,100 firefighters, supported by several water-bombing aircraft, have been deployed to combat the flames. High temperatures, strong winds, and drought conditions are complicating containment efforts.
At least one person has died in their home, and 13 others — including 11 firefighters — have been injured. One individual who was previously reported missing has since been found safe.
The French military is set to join firefighting operations on Thursday, with dozens of soldiers expected to assist, Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau announced.
In the village of Jonquières, nearly the entire community has been evacuated. Mayor Jacques Piraux described the scene as “hellish,” saying, “More than half, maybe three-quarters of the village has burned. It’s a scene of sadness and desolation — like a lunar landscape.”
Nearby residents and tourists have been advised to remain indoors unless ordered to evacuate. Two campsites in the area have also been cleared as a precaution.
The prime minister visited the command center in Saint-Laurent-de-la-Cabrerisse on Wednesday to meet with emergency personnel and affected residents. He emphasized national support and solidarity, noting that both tourism and winemaking — pillars of the local economy — are severely impacted.
An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the fire. The French environment ministry noted that the region has been under drought conditions, with strict water use restrictions in place. The unusually dry vegetation, officials said, has significantly contributed to the fire’s rapid spread.
