Essential Travel Tips for France and Spain Amid Wildfire Evacuations

The Foreign Office has released updated travel guidance for British tourists heading to France and Spain, following the evacuation of approximately 200,000 individuals due to devastating forest fires across both nations. The most severely impacted areas include south-western France and central Spain, with 141,000 evacuations reported in the Gironde and Landes departments alone.

Wildfire Emergency in Spain

The Foreign Office highlighted that Spanish authorities have issued a national emergency declaration in response to wildfires affecting regions in Madrid and Ávila. Additional reports indicate that other inland areas of Spain are also grappling with similar challenges. Tourists currently in these regions are urged to heed instructions from local officials and emergency services, refrain from travelling to or through affected areas, and stay informed through updates from emergency services. For urgent assistance, individuals should call 112.

In France, wildfires have notably impacted areas in Gironde, particularly around Saumos, Le Porge, and Lège-Cap-Ferret. French authorities have taken measures to evacuate campsites, tourist accommodations, and certain residential zones. Furthermore, a separate wildfire is affecting parts of Landes, including Biscarrosse and its surroundings. Access to these areas may be restricted, and road closures could occur with little warning.

Guidance for Travellers

Individuals currently in or planning to visit these regions should adhere to local authorities’ advice, monitor local media for updates, and consult their accommodation or travel provider before making any travel decisions. For further information regarding the wildfires, the Prefecture has established a public information hotline, available from 09:00 to 17:00, at +33 (0)9 70 80 90 40 (select option 1 for Gironde). Additionally, the French wildfire map, Feux de Forêt, provides real-time updates on active wildfires. In case of emergencies, individuals should contact the fire service at 18 or emergency services at 112.

Government Response and Tourist Reassurance

Despite the unprecedented wildfires in France’s south-west, Éléonore Caroit, the Minister for International Partnerships, has encouraged tourists not to cancel their travel arrangements. Addressing the situation on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, she acknowledged the intensity of this year’s fire season, with nearly 50,000 hectares burned, significantly surpassing previous years. However, she reassured potential visitors that many areas remain unaffected.

Ms Caroit emphasised the importance of being informed while visiting France, stating that regions like Paris continue to be safe. She highlighted the deployment of the French army to assist with firefighting efforts, which now number 32. The minister noted that France’s response capabilities are being enhanced through its membership in the European Union, having activated the European Civil Protection Mechanism to receive vital assistance from other member states.

A Call to Address Climate Change

As the fires have tragically resulted in the deaths of two firefighters and injuries to 42 others, Ms Caroit stressed the need for global leaders to view these events as a stark reminder of climate change’s realities. She referenced similar wildfires globally, including those in California and Chile, urging that the changing climate must be taken seriously. Despite France’s significant financial investments in fire prevention and management, she acknowledged that more needs to be done.

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