Macron warns of 'unprecedented' wildfire, says difficult weeks ahead

French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that France faces an "unprecedented" wildfire and that "the weeks ahead will be difficult" as authorities continue battling a massive blaze in the Gironde department. During a visit to the fire and rescue operational centre in Bordeaux, Macron said the fire was "totally unprecedented."

Evacuations and Injuries

The wildfire, which broke out near Saumos on Wednesday, has burned around 42,000 hectares and forced the evacuation of approximately 220,000 people. Eighty-four firefighters have been injured while battling the blaze. Macron paid tribute to the two firefighters who died last week and thanked European countries that have provided assistance.

Rebuilding and Future Challenges

Macron said France would eventually have to replant and rebuild its forests differently in response to increasingly destructive wildfires. Wildfires also remain active in Haute-Corse, Var and Landes, while the fire in the Hautes-Alpes has been brought under control.