An article published in the journal “Forêt méditerranéenne” presents a preliminary assessment of the 2025 forest fires in the Mediterranean region. The year was characterised by a very mild and dry winter, followed by intense heat. Rainfall in March temporarily curbed spring fires; however, severe drought subsequently led to early vegetation desiccation and an increased risk of fire spread. In June, a marked precipitation deficit combined with an exceptional heatwave rapidly dried out the vegetation. Several major fires broke out in early July, notably in Narbonne and Les Pennes-Mirabeau, where residential properties were destroyed.
The most significant event, however, was the Ribaute fire (Aude département) in August: more than 11,000 hectares burned, 17 municipalities affected, human casualties, and extensive environmental damage, including in protected areas.
In total, approximately 6,620 fires destroyed more than 20,000 hectares of forest. Although the number of fires was close to the long-term average, the total area burned was exceptionally high. The article highlights the role of climate change in intensifying the severity and magnitude of wildfires.