In brief
Wildfires that ignited in Saumos are now burning 8,700 hectares across the Gironde region. The French government has ordered the evacuation of the entire Cap Ferret peninsula, with hundreds leaving by boat and others driving to Bordeaux. President Emmanuel Macron has requested EU aid and aircraft from several member states to fight the blaze. Two firefighters lost their lives in a blaze near the Bordeaux airport, and Spanish authorities are battling fires near Madrid, declaring a national emergency. Local authorities will monitor evacuated homes for vandalism while additional resources arrive.
Firefighters Battle Wildfires Behind the Cap Ferret Evacuation
In a dramatic turn of events, the French government has ordered the evacuation of the entire Cap Ferret peninsula. Hundreds of holidaymakers and residents are leaving by boat while others drive out along the D106 road towards Bordeaux.
Wildfires that started on Tuesday in Saumos are now burning nearly 8,700 hectares (about 21,500 acres) across the Gironde region. Two firefighters lost their lives in a blaze near Bordeaux airport.
French President Emmanuel Macron called the situation "very tense" and asked for help from the European Union, expecting aircraft from Croatia, Portugal, the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
Spain is likewise battling fires near Madrid, with authorities declaring a national emergency. Some areas close to the capital have been evacuated while fires at Villa del Prado and San Martín de Valdeiglesias continue to spread.
Local authorities are monitoring evacuated homes for vandalism while bringing additional ground and air resources to contain the blaze.
For residents speaking with officials, contact a link or use the form offered by BBC for those in affected areas.
