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Wildfires force over 160,000 to evacuate in France and Spain

Published July 25, 2026 at 7:02 AM UTC

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Over 160,000 people have been forced to flee their homes as intense wildfires rage across parts of France and Spain, authorities said. The blazes, fueled by a summer heatwave and drought conditions, have destroyed thousands of hectares of forest and threatened residential areas. The evacuations are among the largest in recent years for the region. In southwestern France, the Gironde region saw massive fires that led to the evacuation of around 65,000 people. In Spain, fires spread in several provinces, prompting additional evacuations. Firefighters struggled to contain the blazes as high temperatures and strong winds persisted. Emergency services deployed water-bombing aircraft and thousands of personnel. Affected residents were sheltered in temporary centers. The fires have disrupted travel, with some highways closed, and have caused significant damage to property and the environment. Authorities warn that the situation remains volatile. Weather forecasts offer little relief, with no immediate rain expected. Officials urge caution and readiness for further evacuations.