Large blaze on the border of Aude and Hérault: around 900 hectares burned, evacuations continue

Pouzols-Minervois – 02.07.2026: A large forest and rural fire on the border of the départements Hérault and Aude has destroyed around 900 hectares of vegetation since Wednesday evening. According to authorities, drought and shifting winds are rapidly driving the flames through pine and scrub stands. Smoke is visible over a wide area; some roads were temporarily closed to keep corridors clear for emergency services. Officials had no immediate information on the number of possible injuries on Thursday.

Pouzols-Minervois – 02.07.2026: The prefectures ordered precautionary evacuations near active fire lines. Those affected were mainly smaller villages and scattered settlements on the northern edge of the impacted zones. Municipalities set up emergency shelters, and aid services helped transport elderly and mobility-impaired people. Authorities urged residents to follow instructions strictly, keep access routes clear for rescue services and avoid exposure to smoke.

Pouzols-Minervois – 02.07.2026: Hundreds of firefighters are deployed, supported by forces from neighboring départements. Water-dropping planes and air tankers were used from the air, while ground teams cut firebreaks and created wet barriers to break fire fronts and prevent re-ignitions. The exact number of vehicles and flight hours varied in early situation reports; the incident command emphasized that protecting people, communities and critical infrastructure was the priority.

Pouzols-Minervois – 02.07.2026: Access to particularly vulnerable forest and scrub areas was closed. In view of ongoing drought and increased wind risks, the prefectures in parts of the Mediterranean region declared the highest or second-highest danger level. Measures include restrictions on forestry work, a strict ban on open fires and increased patrols. The public is asked not to leave smoldering items in nature and to report any sightings of flames or smoke to the control center immediately.

Pouzols-Minervois – 02.07.2026: According to the government, the national crisis coordination is ready to deploy additional resources should the fronts expand or new outbreaks occur. Regional administrations are organizing care for evacuees and the handling of pets, while road maintenance crews remove loose branches and adjust sightlines to speed up response vehicles. Investigations into the cause of the fire have begun; whether human error or technical causes played a role was initially unclear.

Pouzols-Minervois – 02.07.2026: The situation remained dynamic on Thursday. Responders focused on stabilizing the northern and eastern flanks and on the protective perimeter around settlements. Authorities said they would provide regular updates on evacuation zones, traffic management and possible return times. People not affected are asked to avoid operational areas so as not to hinder rescue workers and to ensure safety on access routes.