A major wildfire started on Tuesday, August 5, near the village of Ribaute in southern France and has already burned an area bigger than Paris.
So far one woman has died and 13 people are injured, including 11 firefighters. Two of them are in serious condition.
Over 2,000 firefighters and 500 vehicles are still working in the Aude region. The army and police are also helping. Water dropping planes and helicopters have made more than 130 drops to control the flames.
Officials say the fire is now under control but not fully out. It may take many more days to finish the job. “The fire is continuing, but the danger is not over,” said a top local officer.
The wildfire has burned over 17,000 hectares of land. Villages like Jonquieres and Corbieres are badly affected. About 80 percent of Jonquieres is destroyed, and smoke can be seen from space.
People cannot go back to their homes yet. Seventeen shelters have been set up for them. The road remains closed due to fallen power lines and other risks. Forests in the area are off limits until Sunday.
Prime Minister Francois Bayrou called it a “huge disaster” and blamed climate change. Hot weather, strong winds, and dry plants helped the fire spread fast. The environment minister also said global warning made the fire worse.
President Emmanuel Macron has promised full support and told the public to stay alert.