Forest fire near Bordeaux: evacuation centre reaches its limits

Bordeaux – 25 July 2026: Since the night, people who had to leave their houses, apartments or holiday accommodation because of the major forest fire in Gironde have continued to arrive at the Parc des Expositions in northern Bordeaux. Luggage, water bottles and the search for a place to sleep characterize the scene in the halls. The reception center set up by the city is reaching its capacity limits due to the new influx.

The trigger is new precautionary evacuations west of the metropolis. The prefect of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and the Gironde department, Sophie Brocas, ordered evacuations overnight from Friday to Saturday in seven municipalities and areas near Bordeaux. The affected localities include Saint-Médard-en-Jalles, Saint-Jean-d’Illac, Martignas-sur-Jalle and Saint-Aubin-de-Médoc, as well as parts of Le Haillan, Eysines and Mérignac.

According to the authorities, the fire broke out on Wednesday in Saumos and spread under difficult conditions. On Saturday morning, authorities reported more than 19,000 hectares burned and more than 110,000 evacuees in Gironde. Together with the also affected department of Landes, at least 140,000 people had to leave their accommodation, according to the Interior Ministry. The total area affected by the fire was put at more than 22,000 hectares.

The evacuations were carried out as a precaution because the fire was approaching the densely populated outskirts of Bordeaux. For those affected, this means a sudden departure, often without knowing when they will be able to return. At the same time, the operation command must keep roads clear for firefighters, emergency services and the transport of equipment. The evacuations therefore also serve to give response teams room to maneuver.

Logistical pressure is increasing at the exhibition center. Sleeping places, food, reliable information and, where necessary, medical assistance are needed. Municipal services and volunteers must keep families together, care for elderly and other particularly vulnerable people, and register newcomers. With each new evacuation, available capacity decreases.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez had already spoken on Friday of an exceptional situation. Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced additional soldiers to support firefighters. In addition, FFP2 masks were provided for response teams and people in areas affected by smoke. Authorities warned of health risks from smoke and urged strict compliance with evacuation instructions.

Return will only be possible when the development of the fire and the local security situation allow it. Until then, Bordeaux serves as a refuge for many people from Gironde. Firefighters and emergency teams continue to battle the flames; according to authorities, numerous buildings have already been destroyed.