One person has died as France’s biggest wildfire this summer sweeps through a southern region, forcing tourists and residents to flee.
Officials called the scenes “hellish” after the blaze broke out in Ribaute in the region of Aude, close to the border with Spain.
The victim died in their home in the village of Saint-Laurent-de-la-Cabrerisse, about 20 miles north of the city of Perpignan, officials said.
Thirteen people have been injured, including 11 firefighters, since the wildfire started on Tuesday, authorities added.
One person who was initially feared missing has been located and is safe.
The French interior ministry said the fire remains “very active” and has already burned across 13,000 hectares (79,000 acres) – an area larger than Paris.
Smoke fills the air as the wildfire burns across southern parts. Pic: Richard Capoulade/AP
Pic: Richard Capoulade/AP
At least 25 houses have been burnt down, while many roads have been closed.
The blaze was said to be spreading rapidly through forests and villages, forcing residents and tourists to flee.
About 2,000 firefighters and several water-bomber aircraft were tackling the blaze.
The hot, dry and windy conditions have been making it difficult for firefighters to contain the blaze, officials added.
An aerial view of the fire near Saint-Laurent-de-la-Cabrerisse. Pic: Securite Civile/Reuters
A plane drops water on the wildfire. Pic:Securite Civile/AP
Jacques Piraux, mayor of Jonquieres village, told broadcaster BFM TV: “It’s a scene of…
