France: Emergency crews responding to a wildfire in Saint-Andre, Pyrenees-Orientales Department, as of early Aug. 15

Event

Emergency crews are responding to a wildfire burning in Saint-Andre, Pyrenees-Orientales Department, as of early Aug. 15. The fire broke out late the previous day, and more than 500 personnel are on-site battling the blaze. The fire has burned more than 530 hectares (1,310 acres) of land.

Authorities have evacuated more than 3,000 people from the surrounding area, including four campsites in Argeles-sur-Mer and one campsite in Saint-Andre. Several emergency shelters are located in Argeles-sur-Mer, Saint-Andre, and Sorede. The fire has destroyed one forest fire tanker truck and around 50 mobile homes in the Les Chenes Rouges campsite in Argeles-sur-Mer. Several sections of the D914 between Argeles-sur-Mer and Saint-Andre and several other local roads are closed.

The status of nearby roads will likely change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operations. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region. Power outages are possible if fires damage power infrastructure. Authorities may cut off power to parts of the affected area to aid firefighting efforts.

Advice

Heed any evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will likely cause increased congestion and delays. Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in a "go-bag" that can be easily accessed. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.