Exhaustion and concern grow among evacuees in Bordeaux

Bordeaux – 28 July 2026: People from areas of Gironde threatened by wildfires continue to spend their nights on camp beds at Bordeaux’s Parc des Expositions. Basic supplies are secured, but after several nights with little sleep, exhaustion and concern are growing. Many do not know when they will be able to return or what condition they will find their homes or holiday accommodation in.

According to Bordeaux Metropole, the exhibition grounds at Bordeaux-Lac can accommodate up to 10,000 people. Camp beds and rest areas are available, along with water, hot drinks and meals. The neighbouring Colette Besson sports centre has been opened for showers. A dedicated area for pets allows evacuees to keep their animals with them.

Municipal helpers, the citizen reserve and the French Red Cross are running the emergency shelter. The metropolis said that the material donations immediately needed are now available. Further donations should therefore not be brought directly to the exhibition grounds. A logistics centre coordinates support from businesses, municipalities and organisations. Those who cannot stay with relatives or in private accommodation can still find a place to sleep there.

The strain continues because the fires have not yet been fully extinguished. Sophie Brocas, prefect of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and the Gironde department, said on Monday evening that the major fire around the Arcachon Bay had not spread further within 24 hours. During the night, however, firefighters had to tackle several flare-ups.

According to the authorities, around 42,000 hectares have burned so far. Due to unfavourable weather conditions, further evacuations were ordered on 28 July. They affect around 4,000 people at campsites, holiday residences and holiday villages in Lacanau. The emergency shelter in Bordeaux must therefore expect further arrivals.

Even after a visible decline in the flames, returning remains risky. Smouldering hotspots can ignite new fires, damaged trees can fall and plumes of smoke can endanger health. Particularly vulnerable people are advised to protect themselves because of elevated fine-particle levels. The prefecture, mayors and emergency services jointly decide when evacuated areas can be reopened.

According to the authorities, 2,750 firefighters, 1,500 soldiers, 1,440 security personnel and 18 aircraft are deployed in the fight against the fires. In addition, 103 kilometres of tactical firebreaks have been created. The exhibition grounds in Bordeaux will remain open as long as the evacuated areas have not been cleared for return.