The A6 near Fontainebleau remains closed for the time being after forest fires

Fontainebleau – 15/07/2026: The A6 motorway in the Fontainebleau area, in the Seine-et-Marne department, remains closed in both directions for the time being. Operator APRR announced that an immediate reopening to traffic after the large-scale forest fires is not possible. Specialists must first inspect the affected section and ensure the safety of the infrastructure. Marked diversion routes remain in place for travellers.

The fires in the Fontainebleau forest area broke out on Sunday, 12 July, near Noisy-sur-Ecole and spread rapidly. The operation command has since reported that the fire outbreaks have been brought under control within the areas where they spread. However, they have not yet been fully extinguished. Fire crews therefore remain on site to detect hidden hotspots and prevent new outbreaks.

The closure affects an important transport route between the Paris region and Lyon. APRR closed the A6 as early as Sunday due to the proximity of the fire to the carriageway and heavy smoke. The motorway operator recommends alternative routes via the A19, Sens and the A5 for traffic heading towards Paris. Diversion routes have also been arranged in the direction of Lyon.

For traffic to resume, it is not enough that the flames are no longer spreading. According to the operator, the road surface, protective structures, road signs and technical equipment along the route must be checked in particular. In addition, firefighters’ work near the motorway may delay its reopening. No exact time for the resumption of traffic has yet been announced.

According to authorities, the fires have affected more than 2,000 hectares in the Fontainebleau forest area. Several hundred firefighters, supported by firefighting aircraft and helicopters, took part in extinguishing the blaze. Residents of hazardous areas were taken to safe locations as a precaution. After the situation stabilised, the first evacuation measures were gradually lifted.

Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot confirmed on 14 July that the A6 at Fontainebleau remains unsuitable for traffic. The closure is intended to protect travellers, emergency personnel and workers assessing the damage. Drivers should check the latest traffic updates from the motorway operator before setting off and allow significantly more time for diversion routes.

The investigation into the causes of the fires is ongoing. The Fontainebleau public prosecutor’s office is handling the case after a man was detained in connection with one of the fires. Regardless of the criminal investigation, the authorities’ current priority is to ensure the safety of the forest area and transport routes. The A6 is only planned to reopen once there is no longer any danger.