France Wildfire Under Control: 200,000 Evacuees Return Home as Greece Battles New Blaze

The massive wildfire that devastated southwestern France's Gironde region is finally under control, allowing more than 200,000 evacuated residents to return home, French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced today. The blaze, which ignited last week and became one of the largest in France since World War II, has destroyed 42,000 hectares—an area four times the size of Paris. Meanwhile, Greece is battling a new wildfire in Boeotia, near the popular resort of Porto Germeno, prompting large-scale evacuations. The twin crises highlight the escalating threat of extreme weather events in Europe linked to climate change.

Gironde Wildfire: From Crisis to Control

The Gironde fire, which started near Bordeaux, forced the evacuation of 224,000 people at its peak, with flames threatening the Cap Ferret peninsula. As of today, 208,000 evacuees have been given the green light to return, according to the prefect of the department. While the fire has not spread further, authorities warned that hot spots and smoldering areas persist. No civilian casualties were reported, a testament to the massive firefighting effort involving 1,500 firefighters and 400 vehicles. The fire’s ferocity even created its own weather system, including rare pyrocumulonimbus clouds that sparked additional lightning-induced fires, a phenomenon never before recorded in France.

Var Fire Reignites

In the southern Var department, a separate wildfire that was thought to be under control flared up again yesterday, consuming 1,500 hectares. Firefighters are still battling the blaze with 1,500 personnel and 400 vehicles deployed. Nationwide, France has seen 119,000 hectares burned since the start of the year, an exceptionally high figure, Nuñez said. Four firefighters have died and 129 have been injured. Meanwhile, 328 people have been arrested on suspicion of arson.

Greece: New Wildfire Forces Evacuations

In Greece, a wildfire erupted near the village of Agios Vasileios in Boeotia and quickly spread toward Porto Germeno, a popular seaside destination on the Gulf of Corinth. Authorities evacuated around 300 people by sea and have issued additional evacuation orders for surrounding areas. The fire, which began yesterday, has already scorched an estimated 4,000–5,000 hectares, according to wildfire meteorologist Theodore Giannaros. Official damage assessments are pending. Greece’s fire service battled 73 fires across the country yesterday, and a very high wildfire risk warning has been issued for Attica and Central Greece for tomorrow. The situation echoes the devastating Greece wildfires of 2023 that shocked the nation.

The Bigger Picture: A Continent Ablaze

The French and Greek fires are part of a broader European wildfire crisis exacerbated by the 2026 European heatwaves and prolonged drought conditions. Scientists link the extreme heat to global warming, with the UN stating the crisis "has the fingerprints of the climate crisis all over it." Spain, Italy, Portugal, and other nations have also battled major blazes this summer. In France alone, daily fire counts range from 30 to 40, stretching emergency services to the limit. The economic toll, including property damage and firefighting costs, is expected to be in the billions, with insurance claims for wildfire damage likely to surge.

FAQ

What caused the Gironde wildfire?

The exact cause is still under investigation, but officials suspect a mix of extreme heat, drought, and possible human activity. Over 300 people have been arrested across France on arson suspicions this fire season.

How many people were evacuated in France?

At the peak, 224,000 people were evacuated in the Gironde and Landes departments. As of today, 208,000 have been allowed to return home.

Is the fire near Bordeaux completely out?

No, it is under control but not fully extinguished. Active hotspots and smoldering areas remain, and firefighters are still working to prevent flare-ups.

What is the situation in Greece right now?

A new wildfire in Boeotia has burned up to 5,000 hectares and forced the evacuation of 300 people by sea. More evacuation orders have been issued, and a high-risk warning is in place for tomorrow.

How can I help wildfire victims?

You can donate to organizations like the French Red Cross or the Greek Red Cross, which provide emergency relief to those affected. Check their official websites for more information.