New Wildfire Burns 220 Hectares in Pyrénées-Orientales; 300 Firefighters Mobilized

A new wildfire has broken out in the Pyrénées-Orientales department of southern France, rapidly consuming 220 hectares of land in a difficult-to-access area.

The blaze, which ignited on Saturday, is being fought by a force of 300 firefighters. Their efforts are being significantly bolstered by aerial support, including four "pelicans," two Dash aircraft, and one Milan helicopter, with Canadair water-dropping planes also deployed. The fire is affecting the territory of Trévillach, near Montalba-le-Château, Tarérach, and Rodès, approximately 35 kilometers west of Perpignan.

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No evacuation order has been given, but the prefect has asked the mayors of Rodès and Montalba-le-Château to gather the inhabitants of dispersed homes in the town hall and to ask other inhabitants to remain reachable in case of need.

Despite the rapid spread and the challenging terrain, no evacuation orders have been issued. However, the prefecture has advised the mayors of Rodès and Montalba-le-Château to gather residents from dispersed homes at the town hall. Other inhabitants are being asked to remain contactable in case of further needs. A crisis cell has been activated at the prefecture to manage the situation.

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Water drops from Canadair planes have taken place.