Forest fire in Vary: Hundreds of firefighters continue battle near Tarado

Taradeau – 20 July 2026: The smell of smoke still hangs over the hills of the central part of the Var department this morning. Between Taradeau and Les Arcs-sur-Argens, around 360 firefighters continue to battle the last smouldering hotspots of the vegetation fire that broke out on Sunday afternoon. The operation command hoped to bring the fire under control during the morning or early afternoon.

According to initial information, the fire spread rapidly near Taradeau at around 3:20 p.m. and crossed into the municipality of Les Arcs-sur-Argens. Wind and dry vegetation contributed to its spread. By evening, more than 600 emergency personnel, over 200 vehicles, as well as firefighting aircraft and helicopters had been deployed.

The Var prefecture activated a crisis unit, while an operational command post was set up in Les Arcs-sur-Argens. For safety reasons, residents of several residential areas had to leave their homes. Most of those affected were later able to return. In some areas, vehicle access remained restricted so as not to hinder the work of firefighters.

According to a situation assessment published on Sunday evening, the flames affected around 200 hectares. Several buildings in Les Arcs-sur-Argens were damaged or severely affected. A final assessment of the damage was not yet available on Monday morning. Authorities are currently focusing on protecting homes and infrastructure, as well as on the early detection of possible flare-ups.

The fire also affected traffic. Several departmental roads around Taradeau and Les Arcs-sur-Argens were temporarily closed. Rail traffic on the line between Toulon and Les Arcs had to be suspended on Sunday because the flames spread near the tracks. For travellers and local residents, this meant lengthy detours and uncertainty during an already tense night.

According to available information, one firefighter suffered minor hand injuries. As of Monday morning, no other casualties had been reported. There was initially no confirmed information about the cause of the fire. The investigation will likely only be able to begin once the fire site has been fully secured and emergency personnel have completed the extinguishing work.

The operation once again demonstrates how quickly a summer fire in the inland areas of the Côte d’Azur can threaten residential neighbourhoods. For people in Taradeau and Les Arcs-sur-Argens, the immediate danger is now significantly lower than it was the previous evening. However, as long as embers remain beneath the ashes and dry scrub, the vigilance of firefighters remains crucial.