Satellite photos reveal scale of recent wildfires in France
Before-and-after images show extent of damage
An exceptionally early wildfire season has left more than 35,000 hectares burned across France, with vast swathes of forest, farmland and vineyards devastated, as these before-and-after photographs reveal.
Successive heatwaves, drought and strong winds have fuelled blazes across the country, prompting President Macron to declare that France’s fire services have not faced such pressure since the end of the Second World War.
Fontainebleau, Ile-de-France
The largest wildfire ever recorded in the Paris region scorched around 2,000 hectares of the Fontainebleau forest after several blazes merged earlier this month.
The fire prompted the evacuation of around 1,000 people and required more than 800 firefighters, supported by Canadair aircraft, helicopters and Dash water bombers.
The blaze had been largely contained by July 15 but firefighters continue to monitor hotspots.
Trévillach, Pyrénées-Orientales
The wildfire at Trévillach in Pyrénées-Orientales burned almost 5,000 hectares, making it one of the largest fires of the summer.
Around 180 farms were affected, including 146 hectares of vineyards and 165 hectares of orchards. Some winegrowers say they have lost up to 90% of this year's harvest.
The fire had been contained by July 19 but monitoring continues.
Pouzols-Minervois, Hérault and Aude
The fire that spread between the Hérault and Aude departments burned almost 950 hectares over three days after breaking out on July 1.
Up to 750 firefighters were deployed, while around 200 residents were evacuated as a precaution. Vineyards, pine forests and other vegetation were damaged, although no deaths were reported.
The fire was contained on July 4 and extinguished shortly afterwards.
Lançon-Provence, Bouches-du-Rhône
The wildfire at Lançon-Provence in the Bouches-du-Rhône burned around 260 hectares after breaking out on the evening of July 1.
Around 600 residents in neighbouring La Fare-les-Oliviers were evacuated overnight as flames, driven by strong winds, spread towards homes.
More than 200 firefighters and 80 vehicles were deployed, while Canadair aircraft remained on scene the following day to prevent the fire from reigniting.
The fire was contained on July 2.
