Wildfire That Forced 20,000 to Flee in France May Have Been Started by a Fire-Prevention Tool

A wildfire near Saumos, France, burned 2,400 hectares and forced 20,000 people to evacuate on July 22–23, 2026. Police are investigating whether a machine that clears dry brush — meant to prevent fires — accidentally started the blaze. The mayor of Le Porge said the machine appeared responsible. Brush-clearing reduces fuel for fires but can itself spark one during extreme heat.