One dead and thousands evacuated as wildfire spreads in France

A massive wildfire has swept through the Aude region in southern France, causing widespread destruction and forcing thousands of people to evacuate their homes. The fire began near the village of La Ribaute and has already burned more than 13,000 hectares, which is an area larger than Paris. The disaster has claimed the life of an elderly woman who died in her home, and another person is still missing. Seven firefighters have been treated for smoke inhalation, and two people are in the hospital, with one in critical condition.

The wildfire has moved quickly because of strong winds, dry plants, and the hot summer weather. Several villages, including Lagrasse, Fabrezan, Tournissan, Coustouge, and Saint-Laurent-de-la-Cabrerisse, have been badly affected. In Jonquières, the mayor said that about 80 percent of the village was burned, calling the situation dramatic. Photos from the area show blackened landscapes, burned-out cars, and thick clouds of smoke that can be seen from beaches hours away. At least 25 homes have been destroyed, and more than 2,500 households are without electricity. Roads have been closed, and people who left their homes are not allowed to return yet because it is still too dangerous.

More than 1,800 firefighters and 500 vehicles have been sent to fight the fire, and planes are dropping water to try to control the flames. Firefighter spokesman Eric Brocardi described the event as a disaster of unprecedented scale. President Emmanuel Macron has expressed his support for the firefighters and local officials, saying that all government resources are being used to help. He urged everyone to follow evacuation orders and be extremely careful. The region has become more at risk for wildfires in recent years because of less rainfall and the removal of vineyards, which used to help slow down fires. Scientists have warned that the Mediterranean’s hot and dry summers make the area very likely to have severe wildfires. This summer, nearly 15,000 hectares have burned in France, with the Aude fire causing most of the damage. Firefighters are still working hard to stop the fire from spreading, but they say it could take several more days to bring it under control.