Authorities confirmed that at least seven firefighters were hospitalized due to smoke inhalation, while two civilians are being treated, one of whom is in critical condition. With significant wind speed and extremely dry conditions contributing to the fire's spread, more than 1,800 firefighters equipped with 500 vehicles are mobilized to combat the blaze.
The communities of Lagrasse, Fabrezan, Tournissan, Coustouge, and Saint-Laurent-de-la-Cabrerisse have been severely impacted, with many homes destroyed and over 2,500 households left without electricity. The mayor of Jonquières lamented the extensive damage, stating that around 80% of the village has been burnt. Evacuation orders remain in place as the area remains precarious for returning residents.
President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to provide governmental resources to assist local firefighters and has urged citizens to prioritize safety by adhering to evacuation protocols. Prime Minister François Bayrou is scheduled to visit the affected areas to provide support.
Firefighters continue to work diligently to contain the flames, but they caution that challenging conditions such as high temperatures and the depletion of natural firebreaks from vineyard removal have exacerbated the situation. In total, this summer has seen nearly 15,000 hectares affected by wildfires across France, with the Aude fire accounting for most damage.
People are encouraged to share their experiences of the wildfires and submit photos and videos as authorities monitor the ongoing situation.
The communities of Lagrasse, Fabrezan, Tournissan, Coustouge, and Saint-Laurent-de-la-Cabrerisse have been severely impacted, with many homes destroyed and over 2,500 households left without electricity. The mayor of Jonquières lamented the extensive damage, stating that around 80% of the village has been burnt. Evacuation orders remain in place as the area remains precarious for returning residents.
President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to provide governmental resources to assist local firefighters and has urged citizens to prioritize safety by adhering to evacuation protocols. Prime Minister François Bayrou is scheduled to visit the affected areas to provide support.
Firefighters continue to work diligently to contain the flames, but they caution that challenging conditions such as high temperatures and the depletion of natural firebreaks from vineyard removal have exacerbated the situation. In total, this summer has seen nearly 15,000 hectares affected by wildfires across France, with the Aude fire accounting for most damage.
People are encouraged to share their experiences of the wildfires and submit photos and videos as authorities monitor the ongoing situation.
