5% of Fontainebleau Forest Ablaze; New Fire Ignites

A significant fire is raging through the historic Fontainebleau forest near Paris, having already consumed around 5% of the woodland. Firefighters are engaged in a difficult struggle to contain the blaze, which was exacerbated by the emergence of a new fire front on Monday afternoon.

Pierre Ory, the prefect of Seine-et-Marne department, reported that over 800 hectares have been scorched. Given that the forest spans more than 20,000 hectares, the affected area represents a considerable portion. Ory described the fire as "not fixed," indicating that it is still spreading, and emphasized that the more than 800 firefighters on the ground are working meticulously to prevent its advance.

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The fire is not fixed.

Despite the ongoing efforts, the fire is not considered out of control, though its stabilization is hampered by strong, shifting winds exceeding 50 kilometers per hour. The situation became more complex with the appearance of a new ignition point in the La Faisanderie sector within the forest. This has necessitated the immediate redeployment of ground crews and aerial assets to combat the flames in their early stages.

Authorities are investigating the possibility of arson, given the series of fires in the area. However, no conclusive evidence has been presented yet. The firefighting operation involves over 800 personnel, including reinforcements from other French departments, and a substantial aerial support fleet, including Canadair water bombers and Dash aircraft deploying retardant. Military engineering units are also assisting by creating firebreaks. While no casualties have been reported, between 700 and 900 people have been evacuated from three nearby municipalities.

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extremely considerable