Forest fire vigilance: Gironde moves to orange alert

Enhanced measures are in place in Avensan, prohibiting certain activities and limiting human presence in exposed areas.

Generic image of a dry, cracked landscape symbolizing high forest fire risk in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
AI

Generic image of a dry, cracked landscape symbolizing high forest fire risk in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

The Gironde department has been placed on orange forest fire vigilance on Thursday, September 24, 2026, imposing enhanced measures in Avensan, a predominantly forested commune.

As of Thursday, September 24, 2026, the forest fire vigilance level has been raised to orange for the entire department of Gironde. Due to Avensan's classification as a predominantly forested commune, reinforced restrictive measures are now in effect within its territory.
In Avensan, human presence is prohibited in exposed areas (woods, forests, heathlands, and a 200m buffer zone) between 2:00 PM and 10:00 PM. The use of thermal and electric motors, as well as ignition sources, are also forbidden during these same hours, with exceptions for residents, property owners, and agricultural operators under specific conditions.
Festive, sporting, and cultural events are prohibited in exposed areas between 2:00 PM and 10:00 PM. Outside these hours, they remain possible subject to enhanced monitoring and immediate alert systems.
It is strictly forbidden at all times to use braziers and barbecues, smoke in exposed areas, discard any incandescent debris, use thermal brush-clearing tools (like blowtorches), burn green waste, practice bivouacking or isolated camping on private land, or use flying lanterns and private fireworks.
Agricultural activities such as irrigation and viticulture, as well as access for authorized residents and professionals, are permitted under conditions, including the availability of water reserves and alert systems. Supervised human presence by a qualified professional and access to developed leisure sites are also allowed.
Authorities are urging the utmost caution and strict adherence to these guidelines to protect the forest massifs.
Based on information from the official source: Mairie d'Avensan (24/09/2026)