French authorities are probing a volunteer firefighter suspected of igniting a huge forest fire south of Paris. Reports indicate that six individuals are under interrogation regarding the Fontainebleau wildfire, which ravaged over 2,000 hectares of French woodland, leading to the evacuation of around 1,000 residents.
The 18-year-old volunteer initially admitted to starting the fire with a lighter and petrol, but later withdrew his confession, as stated by Prosecutor Diane Ngomsik, according to the BBC. Another 18-year-old is also under formal investigation to determine if charges will be brought against him in connection with the blaze, as reported by BFMTV.
During a visit to the area, President Emmanuel Macron emphasized a zero-tolerance approach towards arsonists. Although the fire, which began last Sunday, is now contained, firefighting teams are still actively working to extinguish it. President Macron disclosed that approximately 10% of the Fontainebleau forest, spanning more than 22,000 hectares, has been destroyed.
The Fontainebleau forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing the Palace and Park of Fontainebleau, remains closed to the public along with its surrounding areas. Authorities urge the public to restrict travel and adhere to safety instructions to facilitate the emergency services and firefighting operations efficiently.
France has faced a series of heatwaves this summer, resulting in nearly 11,000 fires, with President Macron noting that it marks the highest number of fires in the country since World War Two. The primary north-south motorway running through parts of the forest has been partially shut since the fire outbreak.
As climate change escalates temperatures, affects water resources, and fuels a rise in wildfires globally, Europe stands out as the continent experiencing the most rapid warming, according to the Copernicus climate service. In Spain, wildfires in Andalusia claimed at least 13 lives.
Meanwhile, in the UK, a significant wildfire in the Scottish Highlands prompted evacuations of homes and businesses in the Cairngorms National Park, with firefighters engaged in combating the blaze for the third consecutive day.