A wildfire that has consumed 800 hectares of forest a short distance southeast of Paris is now threatening an equestrian centre near Fontainebleau, forcing the evacuation of dozens of horses. The blaze, which has engulfed woodland across the région, has been described by firefighters as “virulent” and of “exceptional scale.”
Interior minister Laurent Nunez has suggested that the fire was deliberately set after authorities noted that the flames had spread rapidly across the forest. Police and local authorities have increased their presence to investigate potential arson.
The incident comes amid a third heatwave sweeping France this summer, with record temperatures blanketing much of Europe. Heat‑related wildfires have intensified across the continent, prompting renewed calls for preparedness and swift action.
Local officials have ensured that all horses have been safely moved away from the centre, and emergency teams are deployed to control the fire before it reaches the property. Updates are expected as the situation evolves.
