Fire prevention is more relevant than ever in the south of France. Due to alarming climatic conditions, access to several forests in the departments of Var and Bouches-du-Rhône is now prohibited. This decision aims to protect both local vegetation and wildlife, as well as reduce the risk of fire outbreaks. Local authorities remind everyone of the importance of these measures for the safety of all and the preservation of our fragile environment.
Fire prevention is a major issue in preserving our precious forests, especially during the summer months. Currently, a high fire risk has led to the prohibition of access to several forested areas in the departments of Var and Bouches-du-Rhône. This measure aims to protect the environment and ensure the safety of visitors during this critical period.
Context of high fire risk
The south of France continues to face concerning climatic conditions. The scorching heat and drought are conducive factors for the spread of wildfires. According to forecasts from Météo-France, several departments, including Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Bouches-du-Rhône, Var, and Vaucluse, are under an orange alert, indicating a high fire risk.
Affected forests by the prohibitions
On August 8, the prefect of the PACA region announced a ban on access to four forests in Bouches-du-Rhône: those of Collines de Gardanne, Montaiguet, Regagnas, and Sainte-Victoire. Entry and walks are strictly prohibited to reduce any risk of fire outbreaks. Other forests in this region also face restrictions on the completion of works after 1 PM.
In the Var, three forests are also closed to the public due to a very severe fire risk. These include the forests of Haut Var, Maures, and Sainte-Baume. Access, circulation, and any presence on these sites are strictly forbidden as part of efforts to protect these natural spaces.
Impact on activities and visitors
This access prohibition affects nature lovers, hikers, and professionals engaged in outdoor activities. In some forests in the Var, other areas are at severe risk, with discouraged access and work restrictions, except for those of a general interest conducted between 5 AM and 1 PM.
Vigilance, essential for forest protection
It is crucial to support the preservation of forests during this delicate period. The drastic measures implemented, although regrettable for some, are motivated by safety and environmental protection reasons. Individuals are encouraged to respect these decisions to contribute to the fight against wildfires.
Through these prohibitions, local authorities continuously assess environmental conditions, and updates are made regularly. The forest weather tool, which monitors drought conditions and weather, plays a key role in this decision-making process essential to protect our natural heritage.
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Affected forests Bouches-du-Rhône:
- Collines de Gardanne
- Montaiguet
- Regagnas
- Sainte-Victoire
- Collines de Gardanne
- Montaiguet
- Regagnas
- Sainte-Victoire
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Affected forests Var:
- Haut Var
- Maures
- Sainte-Baume
- Haut Var
- Maures
- Sainte-Baume
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Type of risk:
- Severe fire risk
- Very severe risk
- Severe fire risk
- Very severe risk
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Access restrictions:
- Prohibition of entry and circulation
- Prohibition of works after 1 PM
- Prohibition of entry and circulation
- Prohibition of works after 1 PM
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Forest weather:
- Orange ‘high’ risk reported
- Daily monitoring by Météo-France
- Orange ‘high’ risk reported
- Daily monitoring by Météo-France
- Collines de Gardanne
- Montaiguet
- Regagnas
- Sainte-Victoire
- Haut Var
- Maures
- Sainte-Baume
- Severe fire risk
- Very severe risk
- Prohibition of entry and circulation
- Prohibition of works after 1 PM
- Orange ‘high’ risk reported
- Daily monitoring by Météo-France
