Astha Saxena

More than 10,000 residents and tourists were evacuated after a fast-moving wildfire burned over 2,000 hectares near Saumos in France’s Gironde department. The blaze, which produced an intense fire tornado, threatened areas around Arcachon Bay and forced holidaymakers to leave nearby campsites. Emergency services continued efforts to contain the fire after it spread across more than 31 square kilometres.

Heavy rain is forecast across much of the UK on July 4, with the Met Office warning that at least 19 regions, particularly western Scotland and the Highlands, will face the most severe conditions. Northern Ireland, Northern England and parts of Wales are also expected to experience intermittent rainfall, while southern and eastern areas are set for warm, sunny weather reaching up to 30C. A rain shadow will bring drier conditions to eastern Scotland, but more than 100mm of rain may accumulate in the wettest regions by the end of the weekend.

A large wildfire near La Bisbal d'Empordà in Catalonia has forced the lockdown of 12 towns and prompted authorities to request assistance from Spain's Military Emergencies Unit. More than 200 firefighters and 11 aerial units are working to contain the fast‑moving blaze, believed to have been sparked by mechanical roadworks. Officials urged residents of Barcelona to avoid travel to affected regions to reduce traffic and support emergency efforts. The fire comes amid rising wildfire vulnerability in Spain, which faced severe fire seasons in recent years driven by higher temperatures and prolonged drought.