What caused wildfires in France in 2024? Natural versus human activity

Investigations into the origin of the recent major wildfire in Aude are ongoing, after the blaze burned through some 17,000 hectares of land.

The blaze began next to a river in the Ribaute commune on Tuesday, burning for three days and becoming the most devastating in France since 1949. 

It is not always possible for authorities to determine the origin of wildfires however the Ministry of Agriculture has identified the source of some 60% of those in 2024. 

The majority (88%) were caused by human activity with only 12% coming from natural causes such as lightning.

The 88% comprised:

Deliberate activity (arson), where a person begins a fire with intent. Almost one third (31%) of fires last year began this way. 

18% accidental, such as the recent fire in Marseille where a car caught on fire and the sparks from this blaze set alight nearby trees, sparking the rapid-spreading fire.

22% ‘unintentional’ or on work sites (17%) where people had lit a fire but had not met safety precautions, such as ensuring barbecues are fully put out, following orders to stay away from certain at-risk areas etc.