PERPIGNAN, FRANCE / EuroWire / – A fast-moving wildfire in southern France has burned about 4,500 hectares in the Pyrénées-Orientales department, after spreading from the area around Trévillach. The fire began on Saturday evening in rough terrain west of Perpignan. Strong Tramontane winds, dry vegetation and high heat helped the flames move across forest and scrubland. Authorities said conditions remained difficult as crews worked through the night.
The Pyrénées-Orientales prefecture urged residents in 26 communes to leave affected areas as the fire moved through the Aspres hills. Officials said about 10,000 people faced evacuation measures during the emergency response. Local roads closed as crews secured access for fire engines and aircraft. Emergency services also opened public information channels for residents seeking official instructions.
About 1,000 firefighters joined the operation as the blaze widened. Crews used more than 200 vehicles and aerial support to slow the spread. The fire front had reached 18 kilometers earlier in the response, according to local authorities. One firefighter and one resident sustained critical injuries. Officials reported no deaths.
Evacuations widen
The fire initially burned close to 1,000 hectares before official estimates rose sharply during Sunday. By late Sunday and early Monday, authorities placed the affected area near 4,500 hectares. The main firefighting effort focused on sectors near Ille-sur-Têt, Rodès and Bouleternère. Those communities sit west of Perpignan, near dry hills that complicate ground access.
Météo-France placed several southern departments under very high forest fire danger as heat returned across the region. The warning covered areas already stressed by dry weather and strong winds. France has faced several fires in recent days across Mediterranean departments. Crews also responded to blazes in the Gard, Hérault and other southern areas.
Tour stage restricted
The wildfire also disrupted the Tour de France stage scheduled to finish in Les Angles on Monday. Authorities kept the stage in place but barred spectators from the affected section. They also removed the publicity caravan from the final part of the route. The decision aimed to keep roads open for emergency crews and reduce pressure on rescue services.
France faces a severe start to the summer fire season after days of intense heat across the south. The Trévillach fire remains one of the largest active incidents in the region. Authorities told residents to follow official alerts and avoid roads near the fire zone. Firefighters continued efforts to protect communities, limit new flare-ups and secure the burned area.