France still battling largest wildfire in 75 years

In southern France, firefighters are facing the country’s largest wildfire in 75 years. The fire started near the village of Ribaute in the Aude region on Tuesday and has already burned an area larger than Paris. Over 2,000 firefighters and 500 fire vehicles are working day and night to control the flames. The French army and police are also helping with the emergency. The fire has destroyed forests and villages, and it is still not fully under control, although it has slowed down a bit thanks to cooler temperatures and less wind.

The wildfire has caused serious damage and loss. One woman has died, and 13 people have been injured, including 11 firefighters. Two of the injured are in critical condition. Three people are missing, and dozens of homes have been destroyed. The mayor of Jonquières, Jacques Piraud, said that about 80 percent of his village has burned, and the trees are completely black. Many families have lost their homes and are staying in temporary shelters. Seventeen emergency accommodation sites have been opened for people who had to leave their homes. Residents have been told not to return until it is safe.

Officials say the fire spread so quickly because of strong winds, dry plants, and hot summer weather. Firefighters have used helicopters and planes to drop water on the flames, making 130 water drops on Wednesday alone. Satellite images show large areas of burnt land and smoke, showing how big the disaster is. French Prime Minister François Bayrou called the wildfire a catastrophe never seen before in France. He and the Environment Minister said the fire is linked to climate change and drought. President Emmanuel Macron said that all of France’s resources are being used to fight the fire and asked everyone to be very careful. The fire has left behind a scene of destruction, with blackened trees, burned cars, and ash covering the ground. The people of the Aude region are still waiting and hoping for the fire to be stopped soon.