Chaos unfolded in southwest France as tourists were evacuated by boat from the upscale coastal resort of Cap Ferret — often dubbed the “French Hamptons.” Over 400 people have already reached the Arcachon marina by boat to escape an uncontrolled wildfire raging across the peninsula, according to Arcachon’s town hall, which confirmed the emergency evacuation order early on July 24, 2026.
Mass Evacuation Underway
Buses have been deployed at four marinas, and all residents have been instructed to leave the area immediately. Authorities reported that at least 40,000 people have been evacuated so far across the Gironde and Landes departments — a number expected to rise.
Expanding Inferno
The fire, believed to be accidental, began north of the Arcachon Basin on Wednesday, July 22, and has since consumed approximately 8,700 hectares (about 21,500 acres) of forest. It has now reached Lège-Cap-Ferret, where homes are ablaze and gas cylinder explosions have been heard. A firefighter was injured during the response, and a journalist on-site witnessed a gas canister explosion while covering the story for M6 Info.
No Fatalities Reported So Far
As of the latest reports, no fatalities have been confirmed. The only reported injury is that of the firefighter.