Wildfire in Fontainebleau Forest Spreads to 800 Hectares
French authorities are combating a wildfire in the Fontainebleau forest, which has spread over 800 hectares. More than 400 firefighters and two Canadair water-bombing aircraft are deployed as the region faces a severe heatwave. The fire began near a motorway on Sunday and has disrupted transport, leading to the closure of the A6 motorway and delays in high-speed rail services. Nearby residents have been informed that firefighting efforts will involve drawing water from the River Seine. This wildfire is part of a broader trend of increasing wildfires across southern and western Europe, exacerbated by extreme heat conditions. Recent wildfires in Spain have resulted in 13 fatalities, highlighting the growing threat posed by such blazes during prolonged heatwaves.
Published 2 days ago • 13 Jul 2026, 07:17 PM IST