3 months Ago
The fire has been responsible for one death, nine hurt in all and one missing to date. The deaths include civilians and firefighters. More than 1,250 firefighters have been called to the scene to battle the blaze with helicopter and aircraft support, and firefighting crews are also helping in a bid to contain flames.
A few evacuations have taken place in the region with wildlife officials emptying two campgrounds as well as dozens of homes in advance. Some homes have been destroyed, and in various areas of Iberville, Pointe Coupee and West Baton Rouge parishes, residents are still without power because of damage caused by the fire.
Rapid Spread Due to Drought, Heat and Wind
The devastating fire broke out under what authorities blame on extreme weather conditions, which enabled the destructive reach of the flames. It comes after the Aude was hit by weeks of drought and high temperatures, turning vast areas into fire traps. The battle to stop the fire has been made even more difficult as fierce winds are stoking the flames.
Area authorities have cautioned that conditions are probably going to remain perilous. Emergency crews working tirelessly in the affected areas have received public backing from President Emmanuel Macron.
The Aude fire alert from Metéo-France came alongside a red alert for wildfires in eight other departments in southern France issued yesterday. The emergency warnings have been downgraded, but the risk is still high with hot weather across the area.
Wider Impact Across Southern Europe
Wildfires are part of a larger surge in wildfires sweeping across southern Europe. Areas of France have been battling repeated wildfires this summer. Other fires in other countries, such as Turkey, have highlighted this trend worldwide.
As emergency services combat the fire, a full assessment of damages is yet to be carried out. The situation is still dire as officials work to save lives, structures and the environment.
