French Authorities Evacuate Thousands as Wildfire Threatens Tourist Areas Near Bordeaux
A significant wildfire has prompted the evacuation of approximately 20,000 people from towns and vacation resorts along the French Atlantic coast, particularly near the town of Lège-Cap Ferret, southwest of Bordeaux. The fire has spread over more than 31 square kilometers, although no injuries have been reported. Local authorities, including the prefect of the Gironde region, Sophie Brocas, have deployed around 700 firefighters, with additional support from the Paris region. The fire approached within 300 meters of homes in Lège, necessitating the use of water bombers. Evacuations included more than 10,000 tourists and over 1,000 residents, with the village of Claouey also being evacuated as a precaution. Reception and respite centers have been established for evacuees. The region has been experiencing a series of heat waves, contributing to the frequency and intensity of wildfires.