A wild fire in southern France has led to the closure of the Marseilles Airport. No planes have landed or taken off from the airport since midday. Some are being diverted to nearby airports, including Nice on the Côte d’Azur. Many roads have been closed or partially closed, and trains suspended.
According to Feux du Forêt, the “violent forest fire” which started this morning in Pennes-Mirabeau, has reached the outskirts of Marseille, burning through 750 hectares in a matter of hours. More than 12 homes have been ravaged by flames, and at least nine firefighters have been injured bravely fighting the wildfire, said the site. Several neighbourhoods in northern Marseilles have been evacuated.
WATCH Apocalyptic images of Marseille fire, France
Residents in the 16th district on the outskirts of Marseilles, have been instructed to remain indoors and stay off the roads. With the smoke, air quality has deteriorated significantly.
In an official message, the Marseille-Provence Airport said landings and takeoffs today (Tuesday 8 July 20205) are “suspended until further notice”, and advised passengers to contact their airlines for more information.
The fires have been exacerbated by 70km winds in the region, according to EuroNews. The media outlet reports that at least 168 firefighters, two helicopters and 68 fire engines have been deployed.
France24 said “a fast-moving #fire that began Tuesday morning near #Marseille has spread into the city, causing the airport to close, stopping trains, and forcing people to stay indoors.”
Latest Update on Fire around Marseille, 8 July 2025, 8.30pm
Feux du Forêt reports that there was a slight “lull” at the end of today, but authorities remain cautious.
“The situation is under control, but under close surveillance,” the Bouches-du-Rhône prefecture said.
By 7pm, 720 firefighters and marine firefighters had been deployed, including several reinforcements from other departments.
A further update will be provided at 10.30pm by France’s Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau is expected to visit the site.
Marseille is the second-largest city in France, with over 1-million inhabitants.
The south of France has been on alert for wildfires following heatwaves in the region.
