PARIS – Var Prefect Simon Babre said the fire was advancing rapidly from the Gros Bessillon area, prompting authorities to prepare further evacuations in three threatened towns.
He added that aerial firefighting reinforcements were deployed to help rebuild firebreaks and slow the spread of flames in the forested countryside of Provence.
Meanwhile, French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez announced the death of two firefighters who were taking part in efforts to extinguish another wildfire near the city of Bordeaux in southwestern France.
French authorities have increased warnings for residents to remain cautious amid forecasts of rising temperatures, dry winds and parched vegetation, which are contributing to heightened wildfire risks across the country.