Disasters & Accidents

Thousands evacuated from path of wildfires in southern France

Var, France, Aug 17 (EFE).- Thousands of people, including tourists, were evacuated Tuesday from various campsites in France’s southern Var region as hundreds of firefighters battled a raging wildfire that has consumed over 5,000 hectares.

Some 750 firefighters, four hydroplanes and three helicopters have been sent to control the fire that broke out on Monday afternoon and continues to rage, according to Var local authorities.

The blaze started near the village of Gonfaron some 50 kilometers from Saint-Tropez before spreading to six more communes.

“The Var region is experiencing a difficult and dramatic moment in the face of a virulent vegetation fire,” the French fire brigade wrote on Twitter, recommending residents to remain indoors and place humid towels in front of their doors and windows to prevent smoke from entering their homes.

No casualties have been reported despite the fire having rapidly advanced due to strong winds and high temperatures.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who is on holiday with his wife nearby, is to visit the area later Tuesday, the Élysée Palace said in a statement. EFE

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