France wildfire disaster: 13,000 businesses shut, 200,000 evacuated

Wildfires in France halt 13,000 businesses, force evacuation of 200,000

The French government announced that the forest fires in the Gironde region have forced more than 13,000 businesses to suspend operations. More than 200,000 people have been evacuated from the area due to the fires.

Scraper SystemJuly 27, 2026, 09:14 PM

Wildfires in France halt 13,000 businesses, force evacuation of 200,000

The massive forest fires that have been raging for days in the Gironde region of southwestern France have dealt a heavy blow to the country's economy and social life. The French government announced that more than 13,000 businesses have been forced to temporarily suspend operations due to the fires.

More than 200,000 people have been evacuated from the region so far. Roland Lescure, the French Economy and Finance Minister, held an inter-agency crisis meeting in response to the large-scale natural disaster.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Minister Lescure said the situation remains difficult. Stressing that the fires have serious economic consequences, not just environmental and social ones, Lescure expressed support for business representatives in Gironde.

Fires still not under control

The fire in Gironde has been recorded as one of the largest forest fires in French history. Officials reported that the flames have engulfed an area of approximately 42,000 hectares. Efforts to bring the fire under control are continuing, but authorities said it has not yet been fully contained.