France Wildfire Near Perpignan Contained: 3,000 Evacuated

Massive Wildfire in Southern France Now Under Control

French authorities have confirmed that a major wildfire near Perpignan in southern France is now under control, after forcing the evacuation of approximately 3,000 people, including 1,700 holidaymakers. The blaze, which erupted between the coastal towns of Sainte-Marie-la-Mer and Canet-en-Roussillon, destroyed an area equivalent to 30 football fields and ravaged 281 holiday bungalows. Eight people sustained minor injuries, among them a child and two firefighters.

Context: A Summer of Wildfires in Southern France

The Perpignan wildfire is part of a broader pattern of devastating wildfires in southern France during the 2026 summer season. According to French Prime Minister Lecornu, who is leading a crisis coordination team, nearly 7,000 fire outbreaks have been recorded since the start of the wildfire season. A total of 8,700 hectares have been scorched, with 1,200 hectares burning in a single day last Wednesday. The fires have been exacerbated by a historic heatwave that broke temperature records across Europe. Similar to the 2025 European heatwave impacts, the combination of drought and high temperatures created ideal conditions for rapid fire spread.

Details of the Perpignan Wildfire

Evacuations and Damage

Emergency services acted swiftly to evacuate residents and tourists from the affected zone. The fire reached the port of Canet-en-Roussillon, destroying a boat company and threatening local businesses. Campsites and holiday parks in the region, popular with Dutch tourists, were emptied. The ANWB (Dutch motoring association) reported that no Dutch nationals had contacted their emergency hotline regarding the fires.

Firefighting Efforts

More than 2,000 firefighters have been mobilized across southern France to battle multiple blazes. At the Perpignan fire, aerial resources including planes and helicopters were deployed to douse the flames. Firefighters managed to establish containment lines, preventing further spread into residential areas. The rapid response was credited with saving lives and limiting property damage.

Other Active Fires in the Region

While the Perpignan fire is under control, another major wildfire continues to burn near Narbonne, just north of Perpignan. That blaze has consumed approximately 950 hectares and is not yet fully contained, though local authorities report that the situation is developing favorably. Five hundred firefighters are working to stop its spread. Additional fires have broken out in the Gard and Bouches-du-Rhône departments. The Mediterranean wildfire season 2026 has been particularly severe, with climate experts linking the increased frequency to rising global temperatures.

Impact on Tourism and Local Economy

The wildfires have dealt a blow to the tourism sector in the Languedoc-Roussillon region, which relies heavily on summer visitors. With hundreds of holiday accommodations destroyed and evacuations disrupting travel plans, local businesses face significant losses. The French government has announced emergency measures to support affected communities and businesses. Prime Minister Lecornu stated that a ministerial crisis meeting in Marseille is coordinating relief efforts and assessing long-term recovery needs.

FAQ: Wildfires in Southern France

What caused the Perpignan wildfire?

The exact cause is under investigation, but prolonged drought and record-breaking temperatures created extreme fire risk. Authorities suspect human activity may have played a role.

How many people were evacuated?

Approximately 3,000 people, including 1,700 tourists, were evacuated from the area between Sainte-Marie-la-Mer and Canet-en-Roussillon.

Is it safe to travel to southern France now?

Travelers should monitor local advisories. The Perpignan fire is under control, but other fires remain active. Check with local authorities and your accommodation provider before traveling.

What should I do if I am in a wildfire zone?

Follow evacuation orders immediately, keep emergency supplies ready, and stay informed via local news and official alerts. Contact your embassy if you need assistance.

How can I help wildfire victims?

Donations to recognized relief organizations such as the French Red Cross or local emergency funds can support affected communities.

Sources

Information for this article was sourced from NOS News, local French authorities, and official statements from the French government. For further reading, see the original report: Franse autoriteiten: natuurbrand bij Perpignan onder controle.