Firefighters try to stop flare-up of France and Spain wildfires as fourth heatwave begins | BBC News

Wildfires and Drought Across Europe

Wildfires and drought are affecting several parts of Europe.

England and Wales

The National Farmers’ Union says agriculture in England is “on a knife edge” after drought was declared across more than half the country and parts of Wales. A major incident was declared in Suffolk after a large heathland wildfire.

Spain

In Spain’s Madrid region, 24,000 people have been allowed to return home, although fires elsewhere in the country remain active.

France

Temperatures in south-west France reached 40°C, raising fears that fires recently brought under control could flare up again. Officials in Gironde say the major blazes are under control, and thousands of evacuees may return home. However, they have been warned they may need to leave again.

Reporting from near Bordeaux, BBC correspondent James Waterhouse said firefighters were focusing on containing flare-ups rather than extinguishing every remaining ember. Crews used aircraft to drop water and soaked soil and vegetation to slow the spread. Local volunteers also joined firefighters from across France.

Local resident Pierre Alexandra said he and his son, Clement, stayed behind to try to protect their home and village despite evacuation instructions.

BBC Paris correspondent Hugh Schofield said the situation in France had been stable for several days, with less burning and a hint of optimism. Cooler temperatures and possible rain could help, and authorities were discussing allowing more evacuees to return.

However, flare-ups continued, and Schofield warned that vigilance would be needed for weeks. Embers can smoulder underground and reignite when conditions worsen. Authorities have made arrests on suspicion of arson, while warning that fires are often caused by human actions, whether deliberate or accidental.

Presenters and Contributors

• BBC presenter (unnamed)
• James Waterhouse, BBC correspondent
• Hugh Schofield, BBC Paris correspondent
• Pierre Alexandra and his son, Clement, local residents