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Wildfires in south-west France flare up as region braces for new 40C heatwave
BBC • • world
Key Points:
- Firefighters in France's Gironde region are battling intense wildfires with 2,000 personnel deployed, while preparing for a fourth heatwave that could push temperatures to 40C, worsening conditions.
- Over 70,000 people have been evacuated across France due to the fires, with around 240 homes destroyed; new flare-ups continue to threaten communities, including areas near Bordeaux.
- Bordeaux itself is not currently under direct threat, but air quality has deteriorated significantly, impacting residents and businesses, with many closures and a sharp decline in tourism.
- Authorities have ordered new evacuations near Lacanau camping sites and remain vigilant about air pollution, urging residents to stay indoors as fires persist and re-ignite in the region.
- Arrests related to fire-starting have increased, with 184 people detained since early July, including a 23-year-old facing 15 years in prison for suspected arson in the Var region.
