Wildfire forces evacuations in southern France as flames spread rapidly VIDEO

A rapidly spreading wildfire in southern France has forced the evacuation of 150 residents.

More than 600 firefighters, supported by aircraft and helicopters, have been deployed to combat the blaze, Caliber.Az reports via French media.

The fire broke out near the town of Draguignan in the Var department. Strong winds, dry vegetation and extreme heat, with temperatures exceeding 40°C, contributed to the rapid spread of the flames.

According to local authorities, the fire destroyed 10 homes and damaged nine others. One firefighter sustained minor injuries.

The firefighting operation involves around 615 firefighters, five Canadair aircraft, four firefighting helicopters and two Dash planes.

By the evening of July 19, the wildfire had burned nearly 200 hectares. Although the blaze has not yet been contained, authorities described the situation as “favourable.”

Roads leading to Les Arcs were closed due to the fire, while rail services between Toulon and Les Arcs were temporarily suspended.

By Jeyhun Aghazada