Firefighter planes deployed to combat Fontainebleau forest wildfire near Paris

A wildfire that erupted in the Fontainebleau forest, about 60 km (40 mi) southeast of Paris, has scorched more than 800 hectares (2,000 acres) and forced the evacuation of several nearby villages. French authorities deployed two firefighting aircraft to the region on Sunday after the blaze was described as “very virulent” and of “exceptional scale.” The fire began in the late afternoon in the former royal hunting preserve, which today is dotted with quiet rural settlements, and has spread rapidly across the forest.

The rapid spread of the blaze has disrupted transport links on the busy summer travel weekend. The A6 motorway, the country’s main north‑south artery, has been partially closed, and the high‑speed rail line running through the area has been disrupted. Officials said the fire was still expanding early on Monday, prompting continued restrictions and heightened alert for motorists and commuters.

The incident highlights the heightened risk of wildfires during the heatwave‑stricken summer, as temperatures and dry conditions have made forested areas more susceptible to rapid fire spread. Authorities remain on high alert and are coordinating with local emergency services to contain the blaze and protect the surrounding communities.