French Prime Minister François Bayrou says the massive wildfire in the Gironde region is now under control, following one of the largest firefighting operations France has seen in recent years.
The wildfire forced the evacuation of around 200,000 people as flames swept through vast areas of forest, threatening nearby communities and critical infrastructure.
Hundreds of firefighters, supported by military emergency units, helicopters, and water-bombing aircraft, worked around the clock to contain the fast-moving blaze.
Officials say the fire destroyed thousands of hectares of forest, leaving extensive environmental damage and disrupting communities across southwestern France.
Although the immediate threat has eased, authorities warn that the danger is far from over as hot temperatures, dry vegetation, and strong winds continue to create conditions favorable for new wildfires.
Emergency services remain on high alert, with firefighting resources positioned across high-risk areas to respond quickly to any new outbreaks.
The Gironde wildfire is part of a wider pattern of increasingly severe fires affecting southern Europe, with scientists linking the growing intensity of wildfire seasons to prolonged heatwaves and climate change.
Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and follow official guidance as recovery efforts continue and crews monitor the affected areas for possible flare-ups.
