Wildfires are spreading across parts of Europe, with a blaze near Bordeaux burning more than 162 square miles in under four days and the Madrid region experiencing its worst fires on record, according to the BBC.
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Key facts
- A blaze near Bordeaux has torn through more than 162 sq miles (420 sq km) in less than four days, according to the BBC.
- The Madrid region is seeing its worst fires ever, the BBC reports.
- The BBC has published maps tracking the wildfires and efforts to tackle them.
Wildfires are sweeping across parts of Europe, with France and Spain among the areas hit hardest, according to a BBC report published on 27 July 2026.
A blaze near Bordeaux in France has torn through more than 162 square miles (420 sq km) in less than four days, the BBC reports. The rapid spread underscores the intensity of the fires affecting the region.
In Spain, the Madrid region is experiencing its worst fires ever, according to the BBC. The outlet’s coverage documents both the scale of the destruction and the response underway.
The BBC has used maps to illustrate where the fires are burning and how they are being tackled, giving readers a visual picture of the areas affected across the continent.
The report highlights the growing challenge that large-scale wildfires pose for emergency services and communities in affected regions during periods of intense fire activity.
Why it matters
Large, fast-moving wildfires threaten lives, homes and natural landscapes, and can overwhelm emergency responders. Tracking where blazes are spreading helps communities and authorities understand the scale of the threat and coordinate their response.
Frequently asked questions
How much area has the Bordeaux wildfire burned?
According to the BBC, a blaze near Bordeaux has torn through more than 162 square miles (420 sq km) in less than four days.
How severe are the fires in the Madrid region?
The BBC reports that the Madrid region is seeing its worst fires ever.
Timeline
- European wildfires in maps – and how they're being tackled
BBC World: A blaze near Bordeaux has torn through more than 162 sq miles (420 sq km) in less than four days, while the Madrid region is seeing its worst fires ever.
- Devastating European wildfires in maps – and how they're being tackled
BBC World: A blaze near Bordeaux has torn through more than 162 sq miles (420 sq km) in less than four days, while the Madrid region is seeing its worst fires ever.