Wildfire smoke: Speed limits temporarily reduced in eight departments

Bordeaux – 25 July 2026: Due to the heavy smoke generated by wildfires in Gironde and Landes, the prefect of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, Sophie Brocas, has ordered temporarily lower speed limits in eight departments. The measure will remain in force at least through Sunday, 26 July 2026. It was prompted by a marked deterioration in air quality caused by particulate matter in the smoke clouds.

On roads outside built-up areas, the permitted speed will be reduced by 20 kilometres per hour in each case. On motorways where the usual limit is 130 kilometres per hour, vehicles may therefore travel at no more than 110 kilometres per hour. Routes with a regular limit of 110 kilometres per hour are restricted to 90, while affected roads where the usual maximum speed is 90 kilometres per hour are limited to 70. The affected areas also include Dordogne.

Atmo Nouvelle-Aquitaine reported persistent pollution from PM10 particles in Gironde and Landes. According to the regional air-quality organisation, measurements and forecasts indicate high concentrations. Smoke from vegetation fires contains not only PM10 but also smaller particles and other combustion products. How far the pollution spreads depends primarily on wind direction and weather conditions and can change at short notice.

In Dordogne, the alert level of the air-quality protection procedure was activated on Saturday at noon. This was based on data from Atmo Nouvelle-Aquitaine. The wind carried the smoke plumes from the fires in Gironde further inland. According to the authorities, particulate matter levels there were significantly above the concentrations normally recorded.

The orders are not limited to road traffic. Industrial companies are being asked to postpone work that generates large amounts of dust, make increased use of existing filtration systems and, where possible, reduce activities with particularly high emissions. The lower speed limits are intended to reduce additional traffic emissions during the acute pollution episode. Although the measure will not eliminate the wildfire smoke, it is intended to prevent air quality from deteriorating further due to additional pollutants.

Authorities recommend that people in affected areas limit prolonged stays outdoors and strenuous physical activity. In the event of heavy smoke, windows and doors should remain closed. Candles, incense sticks and tobacco smoke can place an additional burden on indoor air. Children, older people, pregnant women and people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions should take particular care. In the event of severe shortness of breath or serious discomfort, emergency medical services should be contacted on number 15.