France and Spain battle record wildfires, thousands evacuated

France and Spain are grappling with devastating wildfires, prompting mass evacuations and a desperate fight against the flames. In southwestern France, thousands have been evacuated from the outskirts of Bordeaux as fires encroach on the city. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez described the situation as a "long and difficult battle," warning drivers to avoid the region.

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We expect a long and difficult battle.

The Bordeaux region, known for its wine production and as a tourist hub, is under threat, with the fire approximately 30 kilometers from the city center. Authorities have evacuated residents from several municipalities, housing many in temporary shelters. The Gironde region near Bordeaux has seen a total of 167,000 people evacuated so far. French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu stated that the fires have reached "unprecedented levels."

Meanwhile, Spain is battling major wildfires around Madrid and the neighboring province of Ávila, conditions described as extremely difficult due to strong winds. Around 85,000 people have been evacuated or confined to their homes. The Spanish government has requested aid through the European Union's Civil Protection Mechanism, with firefighting aircraft expected from Italy and Greece, following assistance from the Netherlands and Portugal.

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The fires affecting our country have reached unprecedented levels.

Both nations are facing record-breaking fire seasons. France has seen 98,000 hectares burn this year, while Spain has reported over 130,000 hectares consumed by flames since the start of the year. The Spanish emergency unit has established a unified command to coordinate firefighting efforts in the Madrid and Ávila regions, where fires have scorched 20,000 hectares.

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Complicated hours are ahead due to the changing direction of the wind, emphasizing that the protection of the population is the main priority.