When the Sky Catches Fire

Var, 19 October 2026Photos and text: Thibault Périat18 images

01 / 18 · Var, 19 October 2026Thibault Périat / Collectif DR

In the Var region of southern France, near the village of Pontevès, a wildfire is about more than just flames. Its impact can be seen in the blackened fields, charred trees, dust-covered vehicles and faces marked by exhaustion. On the ground, firefighters continue their work long after the main fire front has passed. They assess the affected areas, monitor potential flare-ups, deploy hoses and resupply their vehicles.

Around them, another kind of organisation takes shape. Local residents, farmers and volunteers bring water, prepare meals and make their vehicles available. Agricultural water tankers join the fire engines, while villagers watch the smoke and try to anticipate the fire's direction.

Captured over the course of a single day, this photo report focuses less on the spectacular battle against the flames than on everything it takes to endure them. A struggle defined by waiting, exhaustion, solidarity and a vigilance that continues long after the fire has disappeared beyond the hills.

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18 images