A catastrophic wildfire raging in southern France near the border with Spain has already scorched 16,000 hectares, resulting in one fatality and leaving 13 individuals injured. The fire, which broke out on Tuesday afternoon in the village of Ribaute in the Aude region, is now one of the largest in nearly 80 years. More than 2,100 firefighters, supported by 90 firefighting planes and 40 helicopters, are battling the blaze, with additional military support set to arrive in the coming days.
What Happened
The wildfire in the Corbieres hills, located in the Mediterranean region of France, has caused widespread devastation, with the flames spreading rapidly due to dry vegetation and strong winds. A significant portion of the region, which is home to vineyards and campsites, has been affected, with several villages evacuated. The Aude prefecture, which is leading the local government’s response, has warned that “unfavorable weather conditions,” including high temperatures and winds over 40 km/h, will make it difficult to control the fire in the immediate future.
Who Is Affected
The fire has already claimed one life, with an elderly woman found dead in her home. At least one person is still missing, and 13 others have been injured, including two who are in critical condition with severe burns. Nine of those injured are firefighters who are on the front lines. The flames have destroyed parts of the village of Jonquieres, and more than a dozen roads in the area, including the A9 motorway, have been closed as a result of the fire.
Background or Timeline
The fire started on July 29, 2025, and has since spread across 16,000 hectares of land. Authorities have described it as the largest fire in France in nearly 80 years, with emergency responders working tirelessly to bring it under control. Despite the efforts of more than 2,100 firefighters and additional support from the military, the fire continues to rage due to the persistent high winds and hot temperatures. French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou has expressed concern over the scale of the disaster, linking the fire to global warming and drought conditions.
Public or Social Media Reaction
The fire has sparked widespread concern both within France and internationally. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen offered assistance to help combat the fire, highlighting the region’s struggle with environmental disasters linked to climate change. Locals, particularly those from affected villages like Jonquieres, have described the scene as one of desolation, with entire sections of the community reduced to ash. The emotional toll is evident as displaced residents share stories of loss and hardship.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
French authorities continue to fight the fire, and additional support from military forces is expected. French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou called the fire a “catastrophe of unprecedented scale” and urged for a greater focus on addressing global warming to prevent similar incidents in the future. Local authorities have made it clear that the fight is not over, and more resources will be mobilized to save lives and limit further destruction. There are also plans to conduct assessments of the environmental and economic impact once the immediate threat has been controlled.
Closing:
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
