Heatwave Hits France and Spain: Wildfires Raging, Hundreds of Thousands Evacuated

France and Spain — A new wave of intense heat sweeping western Europe has fueled large wildfires in France and Spain, devastating vast forested areas, destroying homes and forcing hundreds of thousands of residents and tourists to evacuate. Firefighters in both countries are struggling to contain multiple blazes as authorities warn of worsening conditions.
Spain’s meteorological agency said the extreme weather could persist at least until Sunday, with temperatures expected to exceed 40°C in some areas, raising the risk of new ignition and rapid fire spread. Spanish officials described the situation as an environmental emergency rather than isolated incidents of fires, as authorities carry out large-scale evacuations and fire suppression operations across rural and forested regions.
In southwest France authorities have issued a yellow heat alert, and local officials in Bordeaux warned they are preparing for all contingencies after fires approached within about 15 kilometers of the city. President Emmanuel Macron, visiting affected areas, called the situation one of the most severe forest-fire crises the country has faced since World War II.
Experts point to climate change and prolonged drought as key factors increasing the frequency and intensity of heat waves and making forests more vulnerable to fires. Officials have urged the public to follow emergency instructions, avoid high-risk areas, and evacuate promptly when ordered.