Aude, The Europe Today – August 6, 2025: A devastating wildfire swept through approximately 11,000 hectares of land in the Aude region of southern France on Tuesday, claiming one life, injuring nine people, and destroying multiple homes, according to local authorities.
The Aude prefecture confirmed on Wednesday that the fire, which broke out on Tuesday afternoon, is advancing rapidly due to a combination of prolonged drought and the loss of traditional firebreaks such as vineyards. The affected area, already experiencing heightened vulnerability to wildfires in recent years, remains under threat as emergency services continue their response.
Authorities reported that the fire is still threatening several villages in the department, prompting the evacuation of a number of campsites and parts of at least one village. Several roads in the region have been closed, and approximately 2,500 households are currently without electricity.
In a statement, President Emmanuel Macron expressed his concern over the disaster, writing on social media platform X late Tuesday that all government resources were being mobilized to contain the fire and assist those affected.
More than 1,820 firefighters have been deployed to combat the blaze, supported by emergency personnel and local officials. “The fire is progressing very quickly,” the prefecture stated, adding that conditions remain highly conducive to its continued spread. Lucie Roesch, Secretary General of the Aude Prefecture, noted that firefighters are closely monitoring the fire’s flanks to prevent further flare-ups and are anticipating the arrival of aerial support at dawn.
“This fire will keep us busy for several days. It’s a long-term operation,” Roesch warned, while also noting that higher humidity overnight had helped to slow the fire’s progression somewhat.
Among the injured are one person who sustained severe burns, another civilian with non-life-threatening injuries, and seven firefighters who were hurt during operations. Emergency medical services remain on standby as the situation evolves.
Experts say the increase in wildfires in the Aude department is directly linked to climate-related factors, including decreased rainfall and the removal of vineyards, which once acted as natural barriers against the spread of fires.
Authorities continue to urge residents to comply with evacuation orders and safety measures as firefighting efforts remain ongoing.
