Wildfires Force 300,000 to Evacuate in France and Spain

More than 300,000 people have fled their homes as intense wildfires sweep across southern France and Spain, authorities said Tuesday. Evacuations have involved boats to reach coastal towns and makeshift shelters in cars for those trapped on roads. French President Emmanuel Macron held an emergency crisis meeting as the fires, fueled by drought and record heat, threatened several regions. In Spain, the flames advanced near tourist areas and agricultural land. No major casualties have been reported, but hundreds of homes and thousands of hectares have been destroyed. The fires come amid a summer of extreme heat across Europe, which scientists link to climate change. Dry vegetation and strong winds have made containment difficult. Firefighters from multiple countries have been deployed. Local officials urged residents to follow evacuation orders and avoid unnecessary travel. The economic impact is expected to be significant, particularly in tourism and farming. Weather forecasts offer little relief, with high temperatures and low humidity expected to persist. Authorities are focusing on protecting populated areas and critical infrastructure.