French authorities have ordered the evacuation of nearly 4,000 more people from tourist areas along the Atlantic coast as soaring temperatures and deteriorating weather conditions threaten to reignite one of the largest wildfires in the country’s recent history.

The blaze in the Gironde region, west of Bordeaux, has already scorched approximately 420 square kilometers (162 square miles) — an area roughly four times the size of Paris — and has forced the evacuation of more than 220,000 residents, holidaymakers, and campers since it began.

Firefighters managed to contain overnight flare-ups near the coastal dunes, temporarily stabilizing the fire. However, officials warned that the situation remains highly volatile. With rising temperatures, dropping humidity, and returning strong winds, the blaze could spread rapidly once again.

“We consider the fire stabilized, but not under control,” local authorities stated, underscoring the persistent challenges facing firefighting efforts.

French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez described the evacuation operation as unprecedented, calling it “very likely” the largest civilian evacuation in France outside of wartime.

Thousands of firefighters, supported by water-dropping aircraft, helicopters, and military personnel, continue to battle the flames to protect communities, campsites, forests, and critical infrastructure. Emergency teams are closely monitoring hotspots, while urging residents and tourists to stay away from evacuated zones until it is officially declared safe to return.

The crisis in France comes as southern Europe grapples with another intense heatwave. Prolonged drought, record-high temperatures, and strong winds have created perfect conditions for wildfires across the region.

In neighboring Spain, crews are fighting multiple major fires, including the largest wildfire recorded in the country’s modern history, as it braces for its fourth heatwave of the summer.

In total, an estimated 330,000 people have been displaced across France and Spain due to this year’s severe wildfire season, highlighting the growing toll of extreme climate-related events.

Meteorologists warn that temperatures could exceed 40°C (104°F) in parts of southwestern Europe in the coming days, raising the risk of new fires and hindering containment efforts. Climate experts attribute the intensity of this season to long-term drought and rising global temperatures.

Authorities in both countries are urging the public to remain vigilant, avoid restricted forested areas, and strictly follow fire prevention guidelines as emergency operations continue. (ILKHA)