Large Wildfire Erupts in France, Flames Uncontrolled for Several Days
On the 9th, a large wildfire broke out in Bordeaux, France, and on the 10th (local time), firefighters were extinguishing the fire in the southern part of Gironde, southwest Bordeaux. Photo by Yonhap News
[Asia Economy Culture Young Intern Reporter] Another massive wildfire has broken out in France, which is suffering from heatwaves and drought. The UK is also experiencing the driest weather in 46 years, with the highest fire risk alert issued, as various parts of Europe endure the worst summer due to climate issues.
On the 11th (local time), the flames have not been contained for several days in Gironde, southwestern France, including Bordeaux. According to BFM and other broadcasts, 16 houses were burned in this fire, and more than 10,000 residents were evacuated. The wildfire, which started on the 9th, has burned an area of 74㎢, larger than the western French city of Nantes, which has about 300,000 residents.
Fire authorities said they received manpower support from other regions, but the flames show little sign of being controlled. Gr?gory Allione, president of the French Firefighters Federation (FNSPF), said in an interview with RTL radio that the wildfire is spreading like a "monster."
On the 9th (local time), a wildfire raged in Saint-Magne, Gironde region, southwestern France, with flames and black smoke rising. [Image source=Yonhap News]
France, which has experienced several heatwaves this summer, is battling wildfires after having the driest July since 1961 last month. Large fires broke out simultaneously in eight places including Gironde, Aveyron, and Dr?me, compounded by heatwaves and drought. With the heatwave and drought, some French villages have dried water pipes and are transporting water by truck.
In response, the European Union (EU) Commission has dispatched firefighters and aircraft to France, which is currently the most severely affected. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed gratitude on Twitter, saying, "Our partners are coming to help extinguish the fires," and "European solidarity is working."
In Spain, which shares a southern border with France, fires have occurred in six provinces. In Portugal, fires that started in the Covilh? mountainous area have not been extinguished for several days.
A reservoir in the UK has dried up, with the bottom cracked wide open. [Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]
Not only wildfires but also severe drought is a problem. The worst drought and dry weather are increasing the risk of wildfires in Europe. The UK is also experiencing continued heatwaves due to the heat dome phenomenon, with ongoing dry days. As a result, the highest fire risk alert has been issued in some areas.
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