Macron convenes crisis meeting as wildfires threaten Bordeaux and displace thousands

French President Emmanuel Macron has convened an emergency crisis meeting as severe wildfires continue to rage across southwestern France and Spain. High temperatures and strong winds are frustrating containment efforts, with officials stating that authorities "are far from having the fire under control."

Displacement figures vary across reporting, with estimates ranging from 250,000 to over 325,000 people forced from their homes across both countries. In France’s Gironde region, flames have reached the outskirts of Bordeaux, forcing rail closures and altering Tour de France routes.

Meanwhile, Spanish authorities have declared a national emergency as blazes expand across multiple regions. French fire services also face challenges from suspected arson in the Var region.

Sources: BBC News, Der Standard, France24, Helsingin Sanomat, Le Figaro.