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4w ago

Marseille Wildfire Largely Contained, Travel Services Resume

Officials warn that stronger winds could trigger new flare-ups even as the blaze that scorched over 700 hectares on Marseille’s outskirts is now under control.

People look on near the Plage des Corbieres, on the outskirts of Marseille, southern France on July 8, 2025, as a smoke from a wildfire rages in the background.
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Smoke rises over Marseille as a fast-moving wildfire spreads on the outskirts the city, southern France, July 8, 2025. REUTERS/Alexandre Dimou

Overview

  • The wildfire, sparked by a vehicle fire on the A552 motorway on July 8, burned roughly 700 hectares before its intensity eased overnight.
  • Marseille Provence Airport reopened its runways Wednesday after grounding flights, and the SNCF restored most train services following Tuesday’s suspensions.
  • More than 1,000 firefighters supported by helicopters and water-bombing aircraft battled gale-force winds, sustaining nine injuries but reporting no fatalities.
  • Lockdown orders for about 15,000 residents in the city’s 16th arrondissement were lifted Wednesday morning, though authorities remain on alert for re-ignitions.
  • The incident underscores the region’s heightened wildfire risk during an early-season heatwave and highlights the strain on emergency resources.