Two arrests after forest fire near Fontainebleau – 1,300 hectares burned

Some 600 firefighters were deployed, according to authorities. Firefighting aircraft were also used. The firefighting efforts proved difficult because the soil and vegetation are heavily dried out across large parts of France due to the year's third heatwave.

France is currently experiencing its third heatwave of the year, according to authorities and weather services. Scientists assume that heatwaves, which favor forest fires, are increasing in intensity and frequency as a result of human-caused climate change.

Heatwave and climate change as accompanying circumstances

Since the beginning of the year, forest and area fires in France have destroyed around 32,000 hectares of land – roughly twice as much as in the comparable period of the previous year, according to authorities. In reporting on this year's fire season, an area of 44,800 football pitches was additionally said to have been burned.

According to their own statements, authorities took 59 people into custody nationwide in connection with fires and negligence – such as the discarding of cigarette butts. The Fontainebleau forest, one of the largest contiguous woodland areas near Paris, is a popular local recreation area and is partially under nature protection.

Investigations and consequences for the forest

The investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing. Interior Minister Nuñez announced that the judiciary would carefully examine the circumstances of the fire and possible responsibilities. The authorities simultaneously warned the population of an elevated forest fire risk and called for caution when handling open flames and embers.

The Forêt de Fontainebleau extends over several thousand hectares and normally attracts hikers, riders, and walkers from the greater Paris region. Due to the fire, parts of the forest are likely to remain closed for an extended period while forestry authorities map the damage and prepare protective measures for the coming weeks.