A staggering 1,400 hectares of forest and woodlands have been destroyed in the south of France and the island of Corsica on Monday, authorities said.
The biggest fire was in the village of Bastidonne, in the Vaucluse region, where fires, intensified by strong winds, consumed some 600 hectares of forest.
About 100 residences were evacuated in the village of Mirabeau and a dozen horses in a stable were also moved to safer ground.
Forest fires have also burned through Corsica, the city of Carros close to Nice and in the resort town of Saint-Tropez.
Firefighters are working all hours to contain the fires, with water-bombing helicopters dousing flames from above.
A prefecture spokesman said that early Monday evening the fires were not yet under control but the situation was evolving favourably as weather conditions were improving.
Corsica and Saint-Tropez are both popular choices for holidaymakers, with July the peak month for summer travel.
The UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has yet to update its travel advice for France.
But British tourists are warned in official travel advice about the incidences of fires in the area.
The FCO said: “Forest fires can occur anywhere in southern France during the summer months but especially along the Mediterranean coast and on Corsica.
“French authorities may evacuate areas and close roads for safety reasons.
“Be vigilant, make sure you’re familiar with local emergency procedures and follow the advice of local authorities.”
It’s not the only natural disaster for tourists to be aware of in France.
The FCO added: “There can be risks of flooding in various areas of France, and avalanches in the mountainous areas.
“If your accommodation is near a river, check the vigicrues website to be kept informed of any potential flood risks.
“If you plan a skiing or hiking trip, check weather conditions and follow local advice before going.”
Most visits to Corsica and the south of France are trouble-free.
