Forest fires that have intensified in France and Spain have forced thousands of residents to leave their homes. So far, a total of more than 220,000 people have been evacuated in the two countries.
Near the French city of Bordeaux, an order was given to evacuate another approximately 60,000 people as the fires continue to spread. This brings the number of evacuees from the Gironde and Landes regions in the southwest of the country to 200,000.
French President Emmanuel Macron has ordered the military to be involved in firefighting efforts.
In Spain, three large fire sources near Madrid have merged into a massive blaze. Local officials currently describe it as a disaster beyond the capabilities of firefighters.
The country's government has declared a national state of emergency. More than 60,000 people have been affected by the fires in the Madrid region. So far, 25,000 people have been evacuated, and approximately 40,000 residents have been advised not to leave their homes.
Madrid regional head Isabel Díaz Ayuso called this "the largest fire in the region's history." According to her, high temperatures, strong winds, and the merging of several fire sources have worsened the situation.
The fires are moving toward the municipalities of Robledo de Chavela and Fresnedillas de la Oliva, located about 50 kilometers from Madrid.
According to Carlos Novillo, head of the Madrid government's Emergency Service, the fire has now reached its peak and cannot be fully contained.
"Currently, there is no way to directly fight the fire in this area. Therefore, the main focus is on protecting populated areas," he said.
The Emergency Unit of the Spanish Armed Forces has been mobilized to stop the spread of the flames. The main forces are directed toward protecting the surroundings of the town of El Escorial.
At the same time, another large fire in the province of Ávila is being monitored. Experts express concern that the fire in the Burgohondo area could merge with the fire in Madrid.
