the story of the rapid progression of the flames

Tuesday August 9, the forest of Sainte-Magne (Gironde) caught fire, around 1 p.m. 40 new fire starts were recorded near Hostens (Gironde). In about ten hours, 1,000 hectares went up in smoke. As night fell, flames engulfed a barn. The old lady who lived a few meters away was evacuated in time. Firefighters fought throughout the night, particularly due to unfavorable weather. Nearly 5,000 additional hectares were devoured.

Several municipalities, such as Joué (Gironde) and Belin-Béliet (Gironde), are threatened. In the early morning, it is not yet 8 am that the fire has already forced more than 6,000 people to leave their homes. Throughout the day, the fire progressed, more slowly, towards the South. Firefighters spread fire retardant through the air and on the ground, but the fire spread to its flanks. At noon, the highway to Spain was partially closed due to lack of visibility. At 6 p.m., according to the latest situation statement, 6,200 hectares had been consumed in just over 24 hours.