Wildfire in Gironde Contained – Firefighting Operations Continue

Bordeaux – 31 July 2026: The severe wildfire in Gironde has been contained, according to Franceinfo, but is not yet under control. The fire is currently no longer spreading. However, firefighters continue to work at the fire sites to extinguish smoldering hotspots and prevent the flames from reigniting. Given the affected forest area and the ongoing drought, the situation remains tense.

On 30 July, the Gironde Departmental Council said that the fire was still ongoing. Several roads and cycle paths in the affected area have been closed. Residents are asked to avoid operational sites and keep access routes clear for emergency vehicles. The responsible authorities provide information on current restrictions through a continuously updated map.

As early as 25 July, authorities had declared the highest wildfire risk alert level for Gironde. Restrictions on cultural and sporting events are also in force in the department until 8 August at 6 a.m. These measures are intended to limit further fire risks and ease the burden on emergency services during a period of exceptionally high strain.

Support services have been set up for people who have had to leave their homes or have otherwise been affected by the fire. The Departmental Council operates a 24-hour contact point that arranges emergency accommodation and assists evacuees. Social services are available in Castelnau-de-Medoc and Lanton for particularly vulnerable people. According to the authorities, 124 elderly people or people with disabilities have received support so far.

Smoke can increase fine particulate pollution even outside the immediate fire area. People with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, pregnant women, young children and elderly people are particularly at risk. Authorities recommend limiting time spent outdoors during heavy smoke, keeping windows closed and avoiding physical exertion outside.

Medical and psychological emergency support has also been established for those directly affected. The Departmental Council distributed 45,000 FFP2 masks to social services and outpatient assistance providers. According to the authorities, vulnerable people can obtain the masks free of charge from pharmacies. ATMO Nouvelle-Aquitaine is meanwhile continuously monitoring air quality.

The operation follows dramatic days in the department. On 21 July, according to the National Gendarmerie, two firefighters died in a blaze near Bordeaux-Merignac Airport. The fact that the current fire is no longer spreading makes the work of emergency crews easier. However, it is not over: as long as fire sites remain active, further firefighting operations, inspections and access restrictions will be necessary.