A wildfire threatening Marseille has ignited urgent action, with around a thousand firefighters battling to contain the flames at the outskirts of France's second-largest city. Mayor Benoît Payan described the firefighting efforts as "guerrilla warfare," emphasizing the determination of the local fire and rescue services.
Authorities have evacuated approximately 400 residents from their homes, and nine firefighters have reportedly sustained injuries. While around 20 buildings have been affected, firefighters have successfully protected hundreds of homes. The fire, spurred by a car blaze on the motorway, spread alarmingly fast, reaching 1.2 km in a minute due to strong winds, dense vegetation, and steep terrain.
French President Emmanuel Macron, currently on a trip to the UK, offered his support for the emergency services and residents. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has arrived in Marseille to coordinate efforts and reassure locals. Precautionary measures have been issued, advising residents to stay indoors, shut windows, and keep paths clear.
The fire has already scorched about 700 hectares (7 sq km), and with conditions expected to worsen due to ongoing winds, the situation remains precarious. Local reports indicated the lack of rainfall since May 19, contributing to the fire's rapid expansion.
As warnings continue in the region, wildfires are also breaking out in other parts of Europe, such as Catalonia, Spain, where over 18,000 people were urged to stay indoors, and in Greece, which faced numerous active fires. With heatwaves intensifying across Southern Europe, the risk of wildfires remains a pressing concern.
