The Foreign Office has urged Britons in the Gironde region of southwestern France to follow local evacuation orders as a 'monster' wildfire spreads across the Cap Ferret peninsula. More than 400 people have already been transported by boat from the tourist area, popular with British holidaymakers, to safety in the town of Arcachon. Civic chiefs have ordered an emergency road and sea evacuation, with maritime shuttles operating since early Friday morning.
Foreign Office Guidance
In a statement, the Foreign Office said: 'Wildfires are affecting parts of Gironde (in southwestern France), including areas around Le Porge and Lège-Cap-Ferret. French authorities have evacuated some campsites and tourist accommodation. Access to affected areas may be restricted. Roads may be closed at short notice.' It added: 'If you are already in the area or are planning to travel there, follow the advice of local authorities, monitor local media, and contact your accommodation or travel provider for latest guidance.'
Scale of the Blaze
The wildfire, which started on Tuesday in Saumos, has burned 8,700 hectares (around 21,500 acres). Infos Francaises highlighted the scale on X, posting: 'ALERT - A monster. The out-of-control mega-fire in #Gironde is taking on phenomenal proportions and has now burned nearly 5000 hectares since yesterday! The fire has reached Lège-Cap-Ferret where houses are in flames, explosions are being heard, the town hall and residential areas are being evacuated.'
French President's Response
French President Emmanuel Macron posted on X: 'The situation remains under very high tension in the face of the fires ravaging the country, particularly in Gironde. My thoughts go out to our firefighters and the rescue forces who are battling relentlessly on the fire front. Their courage commands respect.' He noted that France has requested help from other European Union countries, including aircraft and helicopters equipped to fight blazes, and appealed for vigilance: 'I call on our fellow citizens to exercise the utmost vigilance. Every gesture counts to protect our lives, our homes, our forests, our landscapes.'
Casualties and Previous Fires
Two firefighters died on Tuesday while fighting a blaze near Bordeaux airport. Some 20,000 people have been evacuated from the Gironde region. Earlier this month, seven British nationals were among 13 people who died in wildfires in southern Spain. The Andalusian government said the victims included a 93-year-old British woman, and four other British victims were found in a burnt-out car.
UK Fire Risk
In London, fire chiefs have warned of wildfire threats after three heatwaves this year, urging people to create fire breaks around their gardens. Royal Parks have been described as 'tinderboxes' that could see blazes even in the city centre.
