Canet-en-Roussillon: Summer start overshadowed by campsite fires and evacuations

Canet-en-Roussillon – 04.07.2026: A fire that broke out on Thursday afternoon in Sainte-Marie-la-Mer spread rapidly toward the coast and Canet-en-Roussillon, driven by a stormy Tramontane. The flames jumped the River Têt, threatened caravans, bungalows and technical infrastructure, and forced authorities to carry out extensive evacuations along the coastline.

Several large campsites – including Le Sainte‑Marie, Le Brasilia and Le Marina – were evacuated as a precaution. According to consistent media reports, between 1,500 and 1,700 people had to leave their accommodations at short notice. Eyewitnesses described hasty departures with few belongings. Initial assessments indicate numerous destroyed or heavily damaged mobile homes and bungalows; exact damage totals are not yet available.

The port of Canet and adjacent workshops also fell into the danger zone. According to local reports, there were disruptions in the industrial area around the Catana shipyard. Fire services mobilized numerous ground units and firefighting vehicles for hours; helicopters and planes supported from the air to prevent the fire from spreading to further commercial areas and residential neighborhoods. Rescue services set up gathering points; municipalities organized emergency shelters and supplies.

On the morning of July 3, the Prefecture of Pyrénées-Orientales reported the fire was contained. Nevertheless, emergency teams remained on site to cool hotspots and prevent re-ignition amid continued winds. Roads and waterfront areas were reopened in sections. For residents and holidaymakers: return to the affected sites will be carried out gradually and only after technical safety inspections. Operators and municipalities are providing information on access, electricity and water supply, and the handling of initial aid.

Practical questions arise for arriving tourists about the season: which sites can reopen at short notice, how beaches, the port and paths are secured, and how material losses will be handled? According to municipalities and the prefecture, immediate aid, accommodation solutions and stabilization of infrastructure are the main priorities. Insurers and experts have begun assessments; those affected are asked to document damages and contact their providers.

The incident is part of a series of early summer fires along the French Mediterranean coast, favored by dry vegetation, high temperatures and strong coastal winds. Authorities point to the importance of preventive measures such as keeping firebreaks clear, restrictions on open flames, adapted camping rules and clearly communicated evacuation plans. Local warning levels and access restrictions may remain in place in the coming days until weather and vegetation conditions allow a robust all-clear.