France and Spain wildfires force about 330,000 evacuations

Wildfires across France and Spain have forced about 330,000 people from their homes, caused deaths and spread hazardous smoke as a fourth heatwave of the European summer intensifies fire conditions.

France has already exceeded its previous worst year for total area burned even though August, typically the hottest month, has not begun. Spain has recorded more fires by this point in the year than in any previous year, while the area burned is close to the level reached by late July during the severe 2022 season.

Authorities have opened emergency shelters, including 78 established by the Red Cross in Spain. Fire crews facing rapidly moving flames have prioritised evacuations and the protection of property in some areas where direct suppression has become too dangerous.

The fires have damaged homes, vineyards and other businesses around Bordeaux and disrupted tourism and manufacturing near Valencia. In southern France, George and Amal Clooney were among residents who evacuated the Brignoles area as a wildfire threatened the community.

Scientists cited in reporting on July 30, 2026, linked the extreme conditions to a wet winter and spring that encouraged vegetation growth, followed by repeated heatwaves that dried plants and soil. Large fire-generated clouds have also developed in France, producing lightning capable of igniting additional blazes.

French President Emmanuel Macron described the emergency as the country’s most difficult since the Second World War. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said Spain was experiencing the effects of the climate crisis. Europe is warming faster than any other continent, increasing the likelihood of severe heat and fire weather.