As flames rage near Marseille, France's second-largest city, approximately 1,000 firefighters are tirelessly combating the wildfire that has led to mass evacuations and injuries. The city's Mayor, Benoît Payan, elaborated on the intense firefighting efforts, likening them to a "guerrilla warfare" scenario.
Wildfire Engulfs Marseille: Mass Evacuations and Firefighter Mobilization Underway
Wildfire Engulfs Marseille: Mass Evacuations and Firefighter Mobilization Underway
A fierce wildfire threatens the outskirts of Marseille, prompting urgent action from local authorities and firefighters.
The prefect of the Bouches-du-Rhône region, Georges-François Leclerc, classified the situation as "under control," despite urging residents to shelter indoors. Reports indicate that at least 400 individuals have fled their homes, while nine firefighters have suffered injuries in this battle against the flames. Leclerc noted that approximately 20 structures have been damaged by fire, although courageous firefighting efforts have protected countless others. The fire has expanded rapidly in its peak moments, spreading at a staggering rate of 1.2 kilometers (0.7 miles) per minute, exacerbated by a mix of strong winds, dense underbrush, and steep terrain.
French President Emmanuel Macron, currently visiting the UK, expressed his support for the firefighting teams and urged residents to adhere to safety protocols. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau visited Marseille on Tuesday night to meet with local officials as the region's Marseille Provence airport partially reopened after being closed earlier in the day.
Residents have been instructed to stay indoors, secure their windows and doors, and keep escape routes clear for emergency personnel. The wildfire ignited near Pennes-Mirabeau earlier that day, fueled by a car fire on the nearby motorway, and has consumed around 700 hectares (approximately 7 square kilometers) of land. The ongoing drought has made the region particularly vulnerable, with the Bouches-du-Rhône experiencing no rainfall since May 19.
Payan has appealed for residents to remain alert and limit movements while detailing scenes of thick smoke and hazardous conditions. Footage shared on social media depicts colossal smoke plumes overshadowing the city. Meanwhile, other wildfires persist across France and Europe, including ongoing challenges in Narbonne and Catalonia, with thousands more evacuated due to widespread blazes fueled by extreme heat and strong winds.
As western and southern Europe continues to grapple with scorching summer conditions, the threat of wildfires looms larger, compelling heightened vigilance and rapid response from local and national authorities.
French President Emmanuel Macron, currently visiting the UK, expressed his support for the firefighting teams and urged residents to adhere to safety protocols. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau visited Marseille on Tuesday night to meet with local officials as the region's Marseille Provence airport partially reopened after being closed earlier in the day.
Residents have been instructed to stay indoors, secure their windows and doors, and keep escape routes clear for emergency personnel. The wildfire ignited near Pennes-Mirabeau earlier that day, fueled by a car fire on the nearby motorway, and has consumed around 700 hectares (approximately 7 square kilometers) of land. The ongoing drought has made the region particularly vulnerable, with the Bouches-du-Rhône experiencing no rainfall since May 19.
Payan has appealed for residents to remain alert and limit movements while detailing scenes of thick smoke and hazardous conditions. Footage shared on social media depicts colossal smoke plumes overshadowing the city. Meanwhile, other wildfires persist across France and Europe, including ongoing challenges in Narbonne and Catalonia, with thousands more evacuated due to widespread blazes fueled by extreme heat and strong winds.
As western and southern Europe continues to grapple with scorching summer conditions, the threat of wildfires looms larger, compelling heightened vigilance and rapid response from local and national authorities.
