French President: 'This is the most serious situation since World War II'

French President Emmanuel Macron declared that the massive wildfires in his country are the most serious situation since World War II. In Spain, over 63,000 people have been evacuated near Madrid. Authorities estimate it will take months to extinguish the fires. In France, 162 arrests have been made on suspicion of arson.

French President Emmanuel Macron declared that the massive wildfires ravaging his country are the most serious situation since World War II. The fires are raging in France and Spain, with over 63,000 people evacuated from their homes near Madrid in Spain. Authorities in both countries estimate it will take months to fully extinguish the fires. In France, 162 people have been arrested on suspicion of arson since the beginning of the month, although Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu attributed most of the fires to negligence. Residents in Spain have been instructed to stay indoors with windows closed and avoid outdoor physical activity. In France, tourists have been warned against traveling to the southwest of the country. The article quotes tweets from international media outlets reporting on the president's remarks.