In southern France, the wildfire season started earlier and more intensely than usual. On Thursday, May 28, 2026, a fire broke out between Turiàs and Villemorac, south of Perpignan, quickly escalating into a large-scale rescue operation.
Around 4:15 PM, the first emergency call was received. The fire burned vegetation near the A9 highway and rapidly expanded under the prevailing weather conditions. High temperatures of around 37 degrees, unusually dry air, and strong winds created conditions that required special caution from the rescue teams.
Smoke rose quickly, and roads were closed to ensure residents’ safety and smooth access for fire trucks. Dog kennels in the affected areas were also evacuated as a preventive measure. For operators and pet owners, the first few minutes after the outbreak were extremely tense.
More than 100 firefighters were deployed to try to prevent the flames from spreading. Supported by numerous fire trucks, they battled the fire that continually found new fuel due to the wind. Witnesses described the spreading speed as terrifyingly fast. Just as the first smoke appeared, flames had already jumped to other areas.
By evening, the fire brigade succeeded in bringing the fire under control and prevented further expansion. Nevertheless, this fire was recorded as the first significant wildfire in the Pyrénées-Orientales department in 2026, serving as a clear warning for the upcoming summer season.
This region has been suffering from abnormal dryness for several years. The low precipitation in winter and hot summers have dried out many landscapes. What is particularly feared is the strong northwesterly wind called the Tramuntana, which has the power to intensify fires in a short time. Even small vegetation fires often develop into dangerous large fires under such conditions.
For local residents, this is no longer an abstract danger. This fire shows how quickly the situation can change. With a few weeks until summer, there is no doubt that attention to the risk of wildfires will increase even more.
Written by: C. Hatty