Firefighters are battling a repeat blaze at the largest fire in France

• The fire has been localized, but the threat of a repeat blaze remains
• One person has died and 25 have been injured, including 19 firefighters
• High temperatures are expected to hinder firefighting efforts

In the southern region of the department of France, nearly 1,400 firefighters were deployed on Saturday to combat a repeat blaze at the largest fire in the country, as all residents were allowed to return home.

Od Department Prefect Christian Pujol stated that the fire was localized on Thursday, after it had destroyed over 160 square kilometers of forested area, known to its winemakers. All roads are open, but authorities have imposed a strict ban on access to the forest, he added at a press conference on Saturday.

“The battle continues, firefighters are still working to prevent a repeat blaze,” he said.

The fire resulted in the death of one individual and injured 25, of which 19 are firefighters, reported Pujol.

High temperatures are expected to hinder the work of firefighters in the coming days.

“The fire will not be extinguished for several weeks,” said Colonel Christophe Magni, director of the Od fire department, pointing to several "hot spots" that remain under full control.

The National Meteorological Service of France, Meteo France, has declared a southern part of the country to be in a state of "high alert" due to a heatwave, with temperatures in the region of Od reaching up to 39 degrees Celsius.

This summer in southern Europe has been marked by numerous large fires. Experts warn that climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of heatwaves and droughts, making the region more vulnerable to fires.

Tags: Europe/Weather