In a devastating wave, a fire broke out on Tuesday afternoon in the Maures massif, within the municipality of Vidauban in Var. This tragic event has already consumed nearly 600 hectares of forest, propelled by strong winds and dense vegetation. Despite a slight reduction in the intensity of the flames overnight, firefighters remain mobilized to combat this fire which, although less aggressive, is still active this Wednesday morning.
In the municipality of Vidauban, located in Var, a devastating fire erupted on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, already consuming more than 600 hectares of forest. Despite a slight attenuation of the flames during the night due to a drop in temperatures, the fire remains active and still threatens the biodiversity of the surroundings. This Wednesday morning, firefighters continue their relentless fight against this disaster, facing difficult weather conditions expected throughout the day.
The outbreak of the fire
This terrible fire ignited around 3 PM, fueled by violent winds that exacerbated its devastating effects. Located in the Maures massif, near departmental road 48, the disaster quickly spread, engulfing vegetation at an alarming rate. The firefighters of Var have stated that the combination of the density of the vegetation and weather conditions has significantly contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
The efforts of the firefighters
At the forefront of the action, more than 600 firefighters and 190 vehicles are deployed on the ground to contain the disaster. Initially, around 440 firefighters came from different localities, but the reinforcement of additional teams has intensified the efforts. The firefighters, armed with courage and extensive training, are striving to protect the natural habitats and prevent the fire from spreading further.
Evacuations and safety of residents
The safety of residents has been a major priority, leading to the evacuation of several hamlets in the region. Although families had to leave their homes, good news reached them this morning: the evacuated hamlets have been allowed to return to their homes, somewhat relieving the tensions caused by this disaster. The firefighters, for their part, continue to monitor the at-risk areas and implement measures to protect the infrastructure threatened by the fire.
Adverse weather conditions
This Wednesday, the weather forecast indicates a concerning turn with the arrival of a west wind, which could shift to a south wind in the afternoon, making the firefighters’ task even harder. Their efforts are also hindered by persistent drought, an exacerbating phenomenon that requires heightened vigilance regarding fire risks. Continuous cooperation between the Departmental Fire and Rescue Service (SDIS) and the firefighting teams is essential to curb this scourge.
Ongoing investigation
In the aftermath of this tragic event, the authorities have launched an investigation to determine the origin of this devastating fire. Gendarmes are mobilized to conduct thorough investigations, hoping to understand how such a disaster could have occurred and to prevent future tragedies. The preservation of our biodiversity is vital, and every detail counts in this quest for answers.
- Location: Maures massif, Vidauban (Var)
- Start date: June 11, 2024, at 3 PM
- Area affected: 600 hectares
- Weather conditions: Strong winds, dropping temperatures
- Mobilization: 600 firefighters, 190 vehicles
- Status of the fire: Still active, little progression overnight
- Evacuations: Evacuated hamlets allowed to return
- Origin: Ongoing investigation by the gendarmes
