French President Emmanuel Macron visits Fontainebleau, south of Paris, after wildfires scorch part of the forest and lead to evacuations. Multiple outlets report that at least 10% of the roughly 20,000-hectare Fontainebleau forest has been affected and that hundreds of residents are forced to flee as the fires move through the area. Macron says firefighting efforts will take several more weeks before the blaze is fully extinguished, indicating that containment and cooling operations continue beyond the initial outbreaks.
During the visit, Macron also pledges to replant the damaged parts of the historic forest, which is known for attracting hikers, climbers and nature lovers. In parallel with the response to the fires, Macron promises “zero tolerance” for arson and announces a crackdown on those suspected of starting fires illegally. Reporting also notes that arrests have been made, including the placement of a volunteer firefighter under formal investigation.
Overall, the accounts describe a coordinated effort focused on extinguishing the fires, protecting nearby communities, and beginning plans to restore the forest after damage.
