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More than 300,000 displaced in France and Spain as exhausted firefighters battle wildfires
CBS News • • general
Key Points:
- Wildfires in France's Gironde region and parts of Spain have forced the evacuation of over 300,000 people, with France alone ordering more than 250,000 residents to leave due to rapidly spreading fires worsened by shifting winds and dry conditions.
- The Gironde fire, fueled by dry pine forests and scrubland, has expanded to approximately 162 square miles, making it one of the largest wildfire evacuations in France since World War II, with firefighting efforts including aerial water drops and military support.
- In Spain, fires west of Madrid and near Valencia have led to the evacuation of 116,000 people, with authorities warning of worsening weather conditions and the fire surpassing their capacity to control it; one fatality has been reported near Valencia.
- Evacuees expressed fear and uncertainty about the extent of damage to their homes and belongings, while officials and international support continue efforts to contain the blazes amid challenging conditions.
- Pope Leo XIV acknowledged the wildfires during his Sunday prayer, expressing solidarity with those affected and urging prayers for victims and rescue workers.
