France Fires Disrupt Summer Trips
Wildfires in southern France have forced evacuations and travel disruption during a period of extreme heat. Thousands of people have been moved from affected areas, including campsites near Sainte-Marie-la-Mer and Canet-en-Roussillon. Perpignan Airport was also temporarily closed, with some flights diverted, while fire crews and water-dropping helicopters were deployed to control the blazes.
Where the France fires are affecting travel
- Country affected: France
- Main areas reported: Sainte-Marie-la-Mer, Canet-en-Roussillon and areas near Marseille
- People evacuated: more than 3,000
- Transport impact: Perpignan Airport temporarily closed, with flights diverted
- Weather risk: extreme heat, with reported highs of 44C
- UK advice: wildfires can occur across France in summer, especially the Mediterranean coast and Corsica
- Emergency numbers: 18 for fire services, 112 for emergency services
The fires have hit parts of southern France, including coastal areas used by holidaymakers. Three campsites were evacuated near Sainte-Marie-la-Mer and Canet-en-Roussillon, while separate fires were reported on the outskirts of Marseille. The UK Foreign Office warns that wildfires can start anywhere in France during summer, especially along the Mediterranean coast and in Corsica, and says roads may be closed or areas evacuated for safety.
The disruption could affect people heading to beach resorts, campsites, road trips and flights through southern France. Visitors already in the region should monitor local alerts, check with accommodation providers and avoid roads closed by authorities. Trips to Perpignan, Canet-en-Roussillon, Sainte-Marie-la-Mer and areas around Marseille need extra checks, especially if plans include camping, driving or coastal day trips.
The safest option is to keep southern France plans flexible while the fire risk remains high. Travellers should avoid tight connections, keep airline and hotel alerts switched on, save the emergency numbers 18 and 112, and check insurance cover before departure. In extreme heat, even small mistakes can matter, including discarded cigarettes, barbecues or outdoor flames.
