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Key facts
- More than 20,000 people evacuated, including thousands of tourists from campsites and other holiday accommodation.
- The fire began in dense pine forest near the village of Saumos.
- The blaze had burned 2,400 hectares (5,928 acres) in under 24 hours, firefighters said.
- Reception centres have opened for evacuees.
- The affected area lies about 40km (25 miles) west of Bordeaux, just north of the bay of Arcachon.
More than 20,000 people, including thousands of tourists from campsites and other holiday accommodation, have been evacuated as a wildfire described as “particularly intense” advances on the Atlantic coast of south-west France, according to the Guardian, citing authorities.
The blaze began in dense pine forest near the village of Saumos, about 40km (25 miles) west of Bordeaux and just north of the bay of Arcachon, which the Guardian described as a popular tourist destination. Firefighters said the fire had burned 2,400 hectares (5,928 acres) in less than 24 hours.
Authorities opened reception centres to accommodate the thousands of evacuees displaced by the fire. Many of those affected were tourists staying in the area’s campsites and holiday accommodation.
The Guardian reported the developments on Thursday. Further details, including the cause of the fire, the extent of any injuries or damage, and the status of containment efforts, were not stated in the source.
Why it matters
Large-scale wildfires in popular summer tourist regions pose risks to both residents and visitors and can strain emergency services during peak travel season.
Frequently asked questions
How many people were evacuated in the France wildfire?
More than 20,000 people were evacuated, including thousands of tourists from campsites and other holiday accommodation, according to the Guardian.
Where did the wildfire start?
The fire began in dense pine forest near the village of Saumos, about 40km (25 miles) west of Bordeaux and just north of the bay of Arcachon.
How much land has the fire burned?
Firefighters said the blaze had burned 2,400 hectares (5,928 acres) in less than 24 hours.
Timeline
- Thousands of tourists among those evacuated amid intense wildfire in France
The Guardian World: Reception centres open to thousands of evacuees after blaze begins in pine forest 45km west of Bordeaux Europe live – latest updates More than 20,000 people, including thousands of tourists from campsites and other holiday accommodation, have been evacuated as a “particularly int