A major wildfire in southern France has forced the evacuation of more than 10,000 people from around two dozen towns and villages near the Spanish border, as firefighters battle rapidly spreading flames fueled by strong winds, drought, and extreme heat.
The fire, located in Trévillach near Perpignan, has burned at least 4,600 hectares (11,366 acres). At least 16 people have been injured, including several firefighters.
Authorities have warned that strong winds could further fan the wildfire. The blaze is part of a wider wave of wildfires across southern Europe, with Spain, Portugal, and Greece also battling significant fires during an intense early-summer heatwave. Meteorologists and climate experts warn that prolonged hot, dry conditions are increasing the likelihood and severity of wildfires across the region.
