A fast-moving wildfire that erupted in the Var department of southern France on Tuesday has burned more than 2,500 hectares and forced 400 people to flee their homes. Local authorities reported that the blaze spread rapidly, tearing through 1,700 hectares in just a few hours.
Up to 1,100 firefighters and dozens of aircraft worked to battle the fire. Commander William Vogl, a spokesperson for the Var firefighters, said the situation had been very difficult as crews fought throughout the night.
Simon Barbre, prefect for the region located between Marseille and Nice, stated that the fire moved down Gros Bessillon mountain at a speed that was not anticipated given the climatic conditions and weakening wind. According to Météo-France, dry conditions in the area have caused an extreme forest fire risk.