Residents and holidaymakers in Southern France are facing severe forest fires next to the Autoroute du Soleil. As a result, large parts of the A9 and A61 are closed.
Fires in Southern France
France previously also experienced a heatwave, just like the rest of Europe. Now it is facing severe forest fires.
???? Do you know what to do if you find yourself in a wildfire?
- Try to extinguish small fires, but get away if the flames are higher than yourself and are spreading rapidly
- Stay low to the ground and cover your mouth and nose
Want to know more? Read here: What to do if you find yourself in a wildfire?
Where the fires are raging
- In the department of Bouches-du-Rhône, the fire is reportedly already under control.
- In Hérault (bij Montpellier) zijn honderden brandweerlieden aan het werk om de situatie onder controle te zijn. De brand verspreidde zich over meer dan 100 hectare.
- “It’s quite a complex fire because we’re dealing with whirlwinds” – fire chief Jérôme Bonnafoux to the French press
- In Aude, the fires are reported to have spread over approximately 400 hectares, due to the strong gusts of wind in the region.
Disruption for travellers
On the major A9 motorway between Spain and France, two carriageways have been closed since Monday afternoon. This is causing considerable disruption for travellers on their way to or from their holiday destination. Several people report traffic jams of more than 8 hours. The motorway is expected to reopen for traffic on Tuesday at 10 o’clock.
???? Many people had to sleep in their cars. These items will definitely come in handy:
- First aid kit
- Emergency blanket
- Hi-vis vests
Want to know more? Read here what you should do if you unexpectedly have to sleep in your car.
Disruption for residents
Due to the forest fires near Narbonne, approximately 10,000 homes are without power. Local authorities have set up reception centres in various locations.