British travelers planning trips to areas in France affected by wildfires have been advised to avoid Bordeaux as the number of evacuations surpassed 300,000. The UK Foreign Office issued a warning to British tourists and expats on Sunday due to the escalating wildfires in southwest France and northern Spain since July 21, now spreading into densely populated regions along the Bay of Biscay.
Authorities in France have evacuated campsites, tourist accommodations, and residential areas, with possible restrictions on access to affected zones and sudden road closures. The advice urges individuals in or traveling to affected areas to follow instructions from local authorities, emergency services, and to contact 112 in case of emergencies. Travelers are advised to stay updated with local guidance before their journey.
Approximately 65,000 to 70,000 British residents reside in southern France, constituting about 43% of the British population in the country, while French records show around 172,000 British citizens living as residents. Additionally, nine to 10 million British tourists visit France annually.
Tourists are cautioned to steer clear of Bordeaux in France as fires encroach within nine miles of the city. Local officials have discouraged tourism in the region until the situation stabilizes. Karen Kissane, a 51-year-old from Newcastle who was vacationing in Barcelona, expressed shock and fear upon learning about the wildfires in Bordeaux where she resides. Upon her return, she noted the strong smell of smoke and the tense atmosphere caused by the fires.
The situation has led to the evacuation of many, including Karen’s friends from Cap Ferret, prompting her to warn against visiting the affected areas. ABTA spokesperson advised travelers heading to impacted regions to monitor local news, follow instructions from authorities, accommodations, and check the latest advice from the Foreign Office for France and Spain.
In France, more than 220,000 individuals have been evacuated in the Gironde region, with wildfires covering an estimated 162 square miles. Authorities in Bordeaux are contemplating a potential total evacuation as the fires approach the city limits.
In Spain, fires continue to spread in rural areas west of Madrid, with emergency evacuations affecting 70,000 people. The challenging conditions, including high temperatures, drought, and coastal winds, have made firefighting efforts strenuous for thousands of firefighters in France and Spain, aided by aircraft from neighboring countries.
Pope Leo XIV extended prayers for the victims of the wildfires, emphasizing solidarity and support for rescue workers. The extreme weather conditions in the UK, marked by wildfires, low water levels, and drought, are attributed to record-breaking temperatures and climate change impacts from human activities.
Lastly, a yellow heat alert has been issued for several regions in the UK, with potential health impacts and warnings for the public to stay informed and take precautions during the heatwave.