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Emergency Update: European Wildfires, Japan Earthquake

Wildfires ablaze in France amid heatwave; Japan struck by major earthquake

News

On July 27, 2026, the fifth day of the fight against the massive Saumos fire (Gironde, France), the blaze which has destroyed 42,000 hectares, was brought under control by the fire service. A firefighter responding to a flare-up. (Photo by Estelle Ruiz / Hans Lucas via AFP)
By Staff

European Wildfires

Massive wildfires across France and Spain have forced more than 300,000 people to evacuate or seek shelter as firefighters battle extreme heat, dry conditions and strong winds.

In France, fires have threatened communities and tourist areas near Bordeaux. Spain is responding to multiple major fires, including a blaze in Ávila described as the largest in the country’s recent history. Extreme heat of over 100 F is expected to create more difficult conditions for firefighters. This is France’s third heatwave of the season.

The European Union has deployed firefighting aircraft, helicopters, personnel and vehicles from several countries to support the response.

July 28, 2026, the sixth day of the fight against the Saumos mega-fire in Gironde, France), which is ravaging the Arcachon Basin forest, has been classified by the fire service as a high-risk day due to the return of high temperatures and an easterly wind, conditions conducive to the fire reigniting. Fires have reignited in the Lege-Cap Ferret area. (Photo by Estelle Ruiz / Hans Lucas via AFP)

Wildfire smoke can travel far beyond the areas directly threatened by flames. Fine particles in smoke can irritate the eyes and respiratory tract, reduce lung function and worsen asthma and other cardiovascular or respiratory conditions. Children, older adults, pregnant women and those with existing health conditions face increased risks.

Direct Relief is monitoring the fires and communicating with partners regarding potential health and humanitarian needs. The organization has responded to wildfires around the world, including with dedicated kits, resilient power projects, and PPE.

Japan Earthquake

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Kumamoto, a prefecture located on Japan’s southern island of Kyushu on Tuesday, July 28.

The earthquake damaged roads, bridges and buildings, triggered fires and power outages, and disrupted rail and air travel. A shopping center in Kashima Town partially collapsed due to an explosion, leaving people trapped or missing. Local authorities anticipate fatalities at the location. Approximately 300,000 people were instructed to evacuate as rescue operations continued.

A tsunami advisory was issued for coastal areas after the earthquake but was lifted within two hours. Authorities warned residents to remain alert for additional strong shaking.

Firefighters head to conduct rescue operations at AEON Mall Kumamoto, where a gas explosion is believed to have occurred, in Kashima Town, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, on July 28, 2026. The explosion occurred after employees and shoppers had been evacuated following an earthquake. (Photo by Kazuki Wakasugi / The Yomiuri Shimbun via AFP)

Earthquakes can produce complex medical needs, including crush injuries, fractures, burns and head or spinal injuries. Damage to roads, hospitals and other infrastructure can also interrupt access to medicines, emergency services and continuing care for people with chronic conditions.

Peace Winds Japan, a local Direct Relief partner, has deployed response teams to affected areas to assess needs and support response efforts, as needed. Direct Relief is continuing to closely monitor impacts and ongoing response efforts to coordinate and support appropriate response strategies. Direct Relief previously responded to the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

European Wildfires & Japan Earthquake

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are there wildfires in France and Spain right now?

A summer heatwave, dry ground, and strong winds are fueling major fires in both countries. The conditions are making the fires hard to control and forcing large-scale evacuations.

What earthquake hit Japan in July 2026?

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake hit Kumamoto, on Japan’s Kyushu island, on July 28, 2026, causing significant damage and triggering evacuation orders.

Did the Japan earthquake trigger a tsunami?

A tsunami advisory was issued as a precaution but was canceled about two hours later, with no major wave reported.

Is wildfire smoke dangerous to breathe, even far from the fire?

Yes. Smoke particles can travel long distances and irritate the lungs, even for people who live far from the flames. Kids, older adults, and people with asthma or heart conditions face higher risk.

What is Direct Relief doing to help with these disasters?

Direct Relief is tracking both events and working with local partners to figure out what medical supplies and support are needed, drawing on its experience from past wildfire and earthquake responses.

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