Wildfires burning across southern Europe are forcing large-scale evacuations and disrupting plans for travellers. In southwest France, a major wildfire spreads through areas including the Pyrénées-Orientales department, leading to thousands fleeing homes. One report says about 10,000 people are evacuated from southern France, with BBC noting that the number of hectares burned early in summer is unprecedented in at least the past two decades in the region cited.
The fires come amid hot, dry conditions and a broader heatwave affecting parts of Europe, with multiple outlets describing widespread forest devastation across the region. Authorities respond by issuing evacuation orders and safety guidance. The situation also affects events in France: ahead of or around Tour de France 2026 stage 3, organizers adjust conditions for the stage due to wildfire risk, and spectators are urged not to attend parts of the event.
Across the coverage, outlets emphasize the scale of the fires, the urgent public-safety measures in place, and the knock-on effects on daily life and scheduled activities.
