More than 9,500 hectares of vegetation have ignited since Easter Sunday in the Pyrenees in southwestern France, where the country’s first major fire “crossed the border into Spain” broke out in 2023, according to the local prefecture.

The flames “crossed the border into Spain,” according to a prefectural press release issued last night.

About 300 residents of the area who were supposed to be evacuated from their homes during the day “were mostly able to return,” he added, adding that “the fire has not yet been contained, but the situation in terms of protection has stabilized.” residents and property.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said earlier that the flames had spread “over an area of ​​9,300 hectares in the Eastern Pyrenees” and that “300 people had to be evacuated from their homes.” The fire brigade reported 9,500 acres last night.

The minister is expected to visit the site later today to “support” the fire and rescue teams that are on the job.

The fire broke out yesterday morning between the communities of Cherber and Banyuls-sur-Mer and intensified due to strong tramuntana – northerly winds – in this region suffering from severe drought.

Six planes were involved in the extinguishing.

Drought in the Eastern Pyrenees linked to climate change has already caused restrictions and tensions. Four villages have been without drinking water since Friday, and farmers fear their very survival is at risk as a historically dry spring begins.

Source: RES-IPE