Wildfire smoke threatens health far beyond fire zones

Bordeaux – 25 July 2026: Major forest and vegetation fires in Gironde and the Landes department are once again drawing attention to the health risks posed by smoke. According to the French Ministry of the Interior, more than 50,000 hectares have burned nationwide since the start of the year; on 24 July, 32 fires were ongoing in France. Smoke plumes carried by the wind can travel hundreds of kilometres and therefore reach areas that are not directly threatened by the flames themselves.

The main exposure comes from particulate matter. Carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds and other substances produced when vegetation burns are also involved. Atmo France refers to scientific recommendations from the French health agency Anses: vegetation fires can significantly worsen air quality even at great distances. The level of exposure depends, among other factors, on wind direction, fire intensity, fuel material and weather conditions.

Fine particles in the PM2.5 and PM10 size ranges penetrate deep into the respiratory tract. According to the World Health Organization, particularly small particles can even enter the bloodstream. Short-term effects may include burning eyes, throat irritation, coughing, headaches and shortness of breath. With higher exposure, lung function may decline; bronchitis and asthma attacks may be more likely, as may the worsening of existing cardiovascular conditions.

Children, older people, pregnant women and people with asthma, chronic lung diseases or heart problems should take particular care. Even temporary smoke exposure can trigger or worsen symptoms in these groups. Anyone experiencing shortness of breath, persistent coughing, chest pain, severe discomfort or an unusual worsening of an existing condition should seek medical advice. In cases of severe symptoms, emergency services in France should be contacted on number 15.

When smoke is visible or official warnings have been issued, it is advisable to reduce time spent outdoors and postpone sports and physically demanding outdoor work. Windows and doors should remain closed while outdoor air is heavily polluted. Ventilation should only resume once local air quality has improved. Smoking, candles, incense sticks and wood fires can further increase indoor exposure.

In the immediate vicinity of a fire, the Ministry of the Interior also advises covering the mouth and nose with a damp cloth and following the instructions of emergency personnel. Outside the fire zones, readings from regional air-quality monitoring networks and announcements by the prefectures provide guidance. As wind and smoke conditions can change rapidly, protective measures must be continuously adapted to the local situation.