Evacuations

THOUSANDS of people have been evacuated across the south of France due to huge wildfires across the region.

Along with flights being forced to divert, we’ve explained everything you need to know.

What is happening in France right now?

Extreme temperatures in France have resulted in huge wildfires that have sparked evacuations.

Emergency services including water-dropping helicopters and firefighters have been deployed, with more than 3,000 people evacuated, after highs of 44C have been reported.

The blaze in France is believed to have been sparked by a discarded cigarette butt.

Officials have spent much of the summer battling with wildfires in France, with over 9,000 reported along the Mediterranean coast.

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Where are the wildfires in France?

The current wildfires have affected the towns of Sainte-Marie-la-Mer and Canet-en-Roussillon.

Three campsites popular with both locals and tourists were evacuated in response.

An airport in Perpignan was also forced to temporarily close with flights diverted to other airports such as Toulouse.

Two fires also broke out on the outskirts of Marseille, France’s second-biggest city.

Is it safe to travel to France right now?

All of France is safe to travel to, although the UK Foreign Office has some guidance regarding wildfires in the country.

It says: “Wildfires can start anywhere in France during the summer months, particularly along the Mediterranean coast and in Corsica.

“Fires have become more frequent because of drought and high temperatures.

“French authorities may evacuate areas and close roads for safety reasons.”

It also warns that anyone who causes a wildfire – even by accident – can face fines and even prison.

Anyone caught up in a wildfire should call fire services on 18 or emergency services on 112.

May 19 (UPI) — The Sandy Fire in Simi Valley, Calif., has spread across more than 1,300 acres Tuesday, putting thousands of people under evacuation orders.

The fire started as a brush fire on Monday morning but spread quickly due to heavy wind gusts. At least one home has been burned.

The California Department of Forest and Fire Protection said Monday night that “fire activity has decreased significantly” due to calmer winds and higher humidity.

“California is mobilizing resources to support Ventura County communities threatened by the Sandy Fire,” California Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a statement. “This activation will ensure responders have the support needed to continue protecting lives and homes as dangerous fire conditions persist. We are deeply grateful to the crews on the front lines and urge Californians in impacted areas to follow guidance from local officials.”

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Fire crews continue to battle the blaze with 750 firefighters working overnight attempting to contain it.

As of 6:11 a.m. PDT on Tuesday the fire had torn through 1,386 acres with zero containment.

No casualties or civilian injuries have been reported.

“We have made tremendous progress on this fire,” said Andrew Dowd, Ventura County Fire Department spokesperson. “Zero percent containment, don’t let that number fool you. A lot of great work has been done.”

An emergency shelter is open at Rancho Santa Susana Community Park in Simi Valley for people needing somewhere to stay overnight.

The Simi Valley Unified School District has closed all schools on Tuesday due to the fire. On Tuesday afternoon, it will determine if schools will reopen on Wednesday.