Wildfires have intensified once again in south-western France's Gironde region as authorities warn that temperatures are expected to reach 40C in the coming days, raising fears of further deterioration, BBC reports.
Regional prefect Sophie Brocas said 14 areas previously affected by the fires experienced new flare-ups on Tuesday.
Eric Brocardi, spokesperson for the National Federation of Firefighters, said four firefighters have died across France in recent weeks. Around 2,000 firefighters are currently deployed in the Gironde region to contain the advancing flames.
France is expected to experience its fourth heatwave of the summer beginning on Wednesday, with temperatures forecast to climb to 40C in the affected region.
Although officials say the city of Bordeaux is not currently under direct threat, one of the wildfires came within 15 kilometres of the city's outskirts. Smoke has significantly worsened air quality, prompting health authorities to urge residents to remain indoors whenever possible.
More than 220,000 people have been evacuated across France in recent days due to the wildfires. An additional 4,000 tourists have been ordered to leave campsites near the coastal town of Lacanau.
Authorities estimate that approximately 240 homes have been destroyed by the fires so far.
French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said 184 people have been arrested in connection with wildfire incidents since July 6. A 23-year-old man suspected of deliberately starting a fire in the Var region faces up to 15 years in prison.
Extreme heat and wildfire conditions are also affecting neighbouring Spain and Portugal. More than 70,000 people have been evacuated in Spain over the past week, while around 400 firefighters are battling a large wildfire in Portugal's eastern Guarda region.
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