The memory of ashes

24 September 2026Photos and text: Alexandra de Dives28 images

01 / 28 · 24 September 2026Alexandra de Dives / Collectif DR

In July 2026, Gironde was hit by fires of exceptional scale. Starting in Saumos, the fire spread through the Landes de Gascogne forest, as far as Le Porge and Lège-Cap-Ferret. Between July 21 and August 1, nearly 42,000 hectares were burned and about 240 homes were destroyed, mainly in Le Porge. Tens of thousands of people had to be evacuated. Fueled by heat, drought and violent winds, the spread of the fire mobilized thousands of firefighters and substantial air and ground resources.

Beyond the destroyed homes, the fire profoundly transformed the area. A large part of the forest has disappeared, leaving behind burned soil, charred trees and disrupted ecosystems. The forestry sector and many residents also suffered significant losses.

After the emergency and the evacuations comes another time: the aftermath of the fire. This story looks at the traces left by the fire, the transformation of landscapes and natural environments, but also at the residents facing reconstruction and the need to rethink the future of an area now permanently marked by wildfire risk. All while honoring the duty of remembrance for this natural disaster and the human and material losses suffered.

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The story

28 images