Largest Wildfire in France since 1949 (!!!), in Aude Province near Carcassonne
Marek Kučera 
A massive wildfire swept through the Corbières mountains in Aude, Southern France, destroying 36 homes and scorching approximately 17,000 hectares (32,000 acres) of forest and farmland. French authorities confirmed that the fire, which occurred last week, may have been deliberately set, and an investigation is ongoing.
Casualties and Damage
- Fatalities: 1 confirmed dead
- Injuries: 2 people seriously injured
- Property: 36 homes destroyed, numerous outbuildings and infrastructure damaged
- Area burned: 17,000 hectares (32,000 acres)
The wildfire spread rapidly due to strong winds, extremely dry vegetation, and high temperatures, which allowed flames to move swiftly through the Corbières mountains and surrounding valleys.
Meteorological and Environmental Factors
Several factors contributed to the intensity and speed of the fire:
- Heatwave conditions: Southern France experienced extreme summer heat, with record-breaking temperatures in August, drying vegetation and increasing wildfire risk.
- Prolonged drought: Soil and forest floor were highly flammable after weeks without rain.
- Wind patterns: Northerly and westerly winds funneled through the mountainous terrain, accelerating the fire front.
French authorities have emphasized that high temperatures combined with dry winds created near-perfect conditions for wildfire propagation, making containment difficult.
Emergency Response
- Firefighting efforts: Hundreds of firefighters, supported by helicopters and ground crews, worked tirelessly to contain the blaze.
- Evacuations: Several villages in the Corbières region were evacuated to ensure civilian safety.
- Ongoing investigation: Authorities are investigating whether the fire was intentionally set, as unusual ignition points were observed.
Significance
This wildfire is among the largest and most destructive recorded in Southern France in recent decades, reflecting the increasing risk of extreme wildfires in Europe’s Mediterranean region. Experts warn that climate change, prolonged drought, and heatwaves are making such catastrophic fires more frequent and severe.
Outlook
Authorities continue to monitor hotspots, and residents remain on high alert for flare-ups. Recovery efforts for affected communities are expected to take months, with reconstruction of homes, infrastructure, and damaged forests already underway.
Source: https://www.connexionfrance.com/news/aude-deadly-wildfire-why-investigators-suspect-arson/740007
