In an alarming update from Marseille, firefighting efforts are ongoing to combat a wildfire that has already injured over 100 individuals and prompted significant evacuations. The city's mayor, Benoit Payan, reported that while the fire's intensity is declining, it has not been fully controlled as of this morning.
Wildfire Near Marseille Injures Over 100, Evacuations Underway
Wildfire Near Marseille Injures Over 100, Evacuations Underway
Authorities continue battling a wildfire on the outskirts of Marseille, resulting in numerous injuries and evacuations.
As of now, the interior ministry stated that 110 people sustained slight injuries, including firefighters and police officers. The wildfire forced the evacuation of at least 400 residents, and local officials had earlier advised the community to remain indoors to keep roadways clear for emergency services. Mayor Payan described the situation as firefighters engaging in "guerrilla warfare" against the blaze, which was spreading at an alarming pace at its peak—1.2 kilometers per minute—due to strong winds, dense vegetation, and rugged terrain.
French President Emmanuel Macron, currently in the UK, expressed solidarity with the affected residents and fire crew, emphasizing adherence to safety directives. Meanwhile, Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau arrived in Marseille to oversee operations, revealing that approximately 800 firefighters are deployed to manage the emergency. Although Marseille Provence airport partially resumed operations, full restrictions were not lifted, and travelers experienced significant disruptions.
The wildfire erupted on Tuesday, reportedly ignited by a vehicle fire on the motorway, wreaking havoc across an area covering about 700 hectares. Residents recounted the terrifying scenes as thick smoke engulfed the region, with one local resident, Monique Baillard, detailing the apocalyptic nature of the disaster. The Bouches-du-Rhône area has seen no rainfall since May 19, exacerbating the fire conditions.
Wildfires are not isolated to Marseille, as other regions in France, including Narbonne, face similar dangers, fueled by high winds. Spain and Greece also grapple with escalating wildfire threats amid a record heatwave, leading to widespread evacuations and emergency responses.
French President Emmanuel Macron, currently in the UK, expressed solidarity with the affected residents and fire crew, emphasizing adherence to safety directives. Meanwhile, Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau arrived in Marseille to oversee operations, revealing that approximately 800 firefighters are deployed to manage the emergency. Although Marseille Provence airport partially resumed operations, full restrictions were not lifted, and travelers experienced significant disruptions.
The wildfire erupted on Tuesday, reportedly ignited by a vehicle fire on the motorway, wreaking havoc across an area covering about 700 hectares. Residents recounted the terrifying scenes as thick smoke engulfed the region, with one local resident, Monique Baillard, detailing the apocalyptic nature of the disaster. The Bouches-du-Rhône area has seen no rainfall since May 19, exacerbating the fire conditions.
Wildfires are not isolated to Marseille, as other regions in France, including Narbonne, face similar dangers, fueled by high winds. Spain and Greece also grapple with escalating wildfire threats amid a record heatwave, leading to widespread evacuations and emergency responses.
