Wildfire Advances Towards Bordeaux As France Evacuates Over 220,000

A massive wildfire in southwest France has advanced to within about 15 kilometres of Bordeaux, forcing the evacuation of more than 220,000 people as firefighters battle to prevent the flames from reaching the historic city.

The fire has already destroyed large areas of forest in the Gironde region and is being fuelled by extreme heat, strong winds and prolonged drought.

More than 1,000 firefighters, supported by water-bombing aircraft and helicopters, are battling the blaze along a fire front stretching about 20 kilometres.

Authorities have carried out evacuations in communities around Bordeaux, including areas near the city’s airport. Hotels have also been evacuated, although commercial flights remain operational.

French President Emmanuel Macron has convened an emergency meeting as the crisis intensifies, while officials have urged residents to remain vigilant and comply with evacuation orders.

Although there are currently no plans to evacuate Bordeaux itself, contingency measures remain in place as firefighters continue efforts to contain the wildfire.