WhatsApp Logo Subscribe
For News Alert

News

700 firefighters battle blaze in southern France

July 8, 2022 03:31 PM


Twitter Share Facebook Share WhatsApp Share

Around 700 firefighters backed by aircraft were on Friday battling a massive blaze in France's southern Gard region that had already burned 600 hectares (1,500 acres) overnight.

The operation "is continuing, but the fire is advancing more slowly and fortunately is no longer threatening any homes," a spokesman for the local fire service told AFP early Friday, adding that several fire fronts remained "inaccessible".

Two Milan firefighting planes resumed dumping water on the blaze from early in the morning, the spokesman said.

People in the hamlet of Bordezac and other small settlements in the Besseges area were evacuated on Thursday evening, with the local prefect's office saying around 100 had to be put up for the night.

Firefighters were drawn from neighbouring regions to battle the flames Thursday, while 12 firefighting planes and two helicopters were also deployed.

The fire service said thousands of hectares of heavily wooded land were under threat, as strong winds fanned the flames through the dried-out trees.

Although several other fires began in the region on Thursday, most were put out before nightfall.



Most Read

  1. Fans go gaga over Sajal Aly and Iqra Aziz chemistry in latest photoshoot Fans go gaga over Sajal Aly and Iqra Aziz chemistry in latest photoshoot
  2. Islamabad turns into ‘fortress’ ahead of PTI protest Islamabad turns into ‘fortress’ ahead of PTI protest
  3. Punjab CM Maryam lays foundation of country’s first autism school Punjab CM Maryam lays foundation of country’s first autism school
  4. Diljit Dosanjh invites Hania Aamir on stage during London concert, sings 'Lover' for her Diljit Dosanjh invites Hania Aamir on stage during London concert, sings 'Lover' for her
  5. Army soldiers guard Islamabad, Lahore sealed ahead of PTI protest Army soldiers guard Islamabad, Lahore sealed ahead of PTI protest
  6. Strong winds, rain lash most parts of Punjab, KP Strong winds, rain lash most parts of Punjab, KP