Pyrenees blaze forces mass evacuations
A wildfire in southwestern France's Pyrenees region near the Spanish border has scorched more than 11,000 acres and forced more than 10,000 people to evacuate from nearly 30 villages and towns. The blaze rapidly expanded since Sunday evening, fueled by strong winds, drought, and extreme heat. More than 2,000 firefighters joined the effort to bring the fire under control.
Record-breaking June heatwave sets the stage
The wildfires follow a record-breaking June heatwave across Europe that caused thousands of deaths, strained healthcare facilities, and dried out vast areas of land. Western Europe had its hottest June on record. The Trevillach blaze is burning in the vicinity of the third stage of the Tour de France, adding sporting disruption to the human toll.
Climate scientists warn of worsening pattern
'Based on the climate science, we know that this is just the beginning of worsening heat waves that are going to become more frequent, more intense, and last longer into the future if we don't get fossil fuel burning under control,' said Vijay Limaye, a climate and health scientist at the Natural Resources Defense Council. French government officials said the country likely needs more resources to fight wildfires and is considering a budget increase for firefighting efforts.