Major forest fire in Fontainebleau: Around 900 people evacuated as a precaution

Fontainebleau – 13 July 2026: Firefighting aircraft are circling over the forest south of Paris while ground crews are dealing with a fire that has been spreading through the Fontainebleau forest since Sunday. According to authorities and the Interior Ministry, around 900 residents have been evacuated from homes on the edge of the forest as a safety measure. Initially, there were no reports of injuries or destroyed homes.

On Monday, several hundred firefighters from Seine-et-Marne and other areas were deployed at times. The number of personnel was significantly increased during the day. Two Canadair firefighting aircraft, Dash aircraft and firefighting helicopters provided air support. The aircraft collected water from the Seine. Such a deployment of heavy firefighting aircraft in the Paris region is considered unusual.

The affected areas are mainly forested land in the south of the Seine-et-Marne department, including areas near Achères-la-Forêt, Le Vaudoué and Noisy-sur-École. By Monday, the fire had covered several hundred hectares. The emergency command focused on preventing the fire from spreading to residential areas on the edge of the forest and preventing new outbreaks. Due to smoke, high temperatures and emergency vehicles, access points and traffic routes in the area were closed.

For those who had to leave their homes, the operation initially meant uncertainty. According to authorities, the evacuations were carried out as a precautionary measure. Municipalities and support services arranged accommodation. Returning to the affected residential areas depends on whether firefighters can provide lasting protection for the edges of the fire zone. On Monday evening, according to consistent reports, the fire was still not fully under control.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said there were indications that the cause may have been deliberate action. However, the investigation is still at an early stage. According to media reports, two people have been taken into custody in connection with the fire. It remains unclear whether and how their involvement can be proven. The presumption of innocence continues to apply. The relevant investigative authorities initially provided no further information about possible allegations.

The fire occurred in a forest whose significance for the region extends far beyond its role as an excursion destination. The Fontainebleau forest is a distinctive natural area on Paris’s doorstep, used daily by walkers, climbers and families. In recent months, authorities in Seine-et-Marne have stepped up prevention efforts due to several small fires and dry vegetation.

For firefighters, the situation remains challenging: wind, parched ground and difficult-to-access forest sections can quickly cause smouldering hotspots to flare up again. Residents are asked to comply with barriers, not enter the area on their own and follow official announcements from the prefecture and local authorities.