A6 motorway near Fontainebleau temporarily closed following forest fire

Fontainebleau – July 15, 2026: The A6 motorway near Fontainebleau in the Seine-et-Marne department remains closed in both directions for the time being. Operator APRR announced that traffic cannot be reopened immediately following a major forest fire. Experts must first inspect the affected sections and ensure the safety of the infrastructure. Signposted diversions remain in place for travelers.

The fire in the Fontainebleau forest area broke out near Noisy-sur-École on Sunday, July 12, and spread rapidly. The incident command center announced that the points of origin of the fires have been brought under control within their respective burn areas. However, they have not yet been fully extinguished. Firefighters therefore remain on site to locate smoldering fires and prevent new outbreaks.

The closure affects an important transport route linking the Paris region and Lyon. APRR had already closed the A6 on Sunday due to the fire’s proximity to the roadway and significant smoke development. For traffic heading toward Paris, the motorway operator recommends an alternative route via the A19, Sens, and the A5. A diversion has also been set up toward Lyon.

For traffic to reopen, it is not enough that the flames no longer advance. According to the operator, the roadway, protective equipment, signs, and technical facilities along the route must be inspected. Firefighting operations around the motorway may also delay reopening. No exact time for the resumption of traffic has been given at this stage.

According to authorities, the fire affected more than 2,000 hectares in the Fontainebleau massif. Several hundred firefighters were deployed with support from firefighting aircraft and helicopters. Residents in danger zones were evacuated to safe locations as a precaution. As the situation stabilized, the first evacuation measures were gradually lifted.

Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot confirmed on July 14 that the A6 near Fontainebleau remains impassable. The closure is intended to protect travelers, emergency personnel, and workers assessing the damage. Drivers are advised to check the latest traffic information from the motorway operator before departure and to expect significant delays on the diversion routes.

The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing. The Fontainebleau public prosecutor’s office is handling the case after a man was taken into custody in connection with one of the fires. Apart from the criminal investigation, the current priority for authorities is ensuring the safety of the forest area and transport routes. The A6 is expected to reopen only once all danger has been eliminated.