Marseille Wildfire Injures Over 110, Forces Hundreds Evacuations

A fast-moving wildfire near Marseille, France's second-largest city, has injured more than 110 people, including firefighters and police, and forced the evacuation of nearly 400 residents as it rapidly spread over approximately 1,700 acres. The fire, which began near Les Pennes-Mirabeau and was reportedly sparked by a car catching fire on a motorway, has led to the closure of roads, suspension of train services, and temporary halting of flights at Marseille Provence Airport. The blaze is exacerbated by the Mistral winds, which are strong, dry, and gusty, increasing the fire's intensity and complicating firefighting efforts. Over 800 firefighters, supported by aircraft, have been working through the night to contain the fire, which authorities describe as a strategic and difficult battle likened to "guerrilla warfare" by Marseille's mayor. Despite the severity, no fatalities have been reported, and the French government remains on high alert, with President Emmanuel Macron expressing support for emergency crews and urging residents to follow safety instructions. The fire's rapid spread and the ongoing hot, dry weather conditions have heightened concerns about further escalation in the region.