Thousands evacuated as wildfires rage in France

At least 10,000 people cleared from homes, campsites as France calls on EU for help

By Hajer M'tiri

PARIS (AA) - At least 10,000 people have left campsites and houses in the south of France to escape new wildfires which burned around 800 hectares near Bormes-les-Mimosas, according to fire department officials.

Since Monday, France has been battling to overcome fires which have destroyed more than 4,000 hectares of land across the southeast. Fires have also broken out on the Mediterranean island of Corsica.

Some 20 firefighters and rescue workers have been injured tackling the blazes.

"The evacuations, at least 10,000, followed the progression of the fire. It’s an area that doubles or triples its population in summer," a fire service official in Bormes-les-Mimosas said on Wednesday.

France requested logistical support from the EU on Tuesday to help control the blazes.

Over 4,000 firefighters and 19 aircraft, including 10 Canadair water bombers, have been mobilized to control the flames.

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