A virulent wildfire that started in Saumos, north of the Arcachon basin, burned over 1400 hectares on Wednesday 22 July 2026, leading to the evacuation of thousands of people.
The wildfire spread rapidly toward the commune of Porge, where around 700 residents and 3500 campers had to leave as a precaution. Some 500 firefighters and 150 vehicles, supported by two Canadair, two Dash and four Air Tractor aircraft, are fighting the flames on the ground and in the air.
Porge mayor Martial Zaninetti stated the fire may have been started by a cleaning machine on a forest track, information not confirmed by fire services. Gironde prefect Sophie Brocas announced a ban on forest work using thermal engines in the department, which is under red alert.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez visited the site to pay tribute to two firefighters who died on Tuesday near Bordeaux-Mérignac airport. The Bordeaux prosecutor has toughened prosecutions for the use of fire in forest areas, now punishable by one year in prison and a 15000 euro fine.
