France Triggers EU Civil Protection Mechanism as Gironde Wildfires Force 60,000 Evacuations

France activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism as two Gironde wildfires burned over 12,500 hectares and forced roughly 60,000 evacuations. The EU deployed three water bomber aircraft. Interior Minister Nuñez said the main Saumos fire is "currently not under control and continues to spread." Two firefighters have died. Over 50,000 hectares have burned across France in 2026.