Motorhome Fire Near Lyon Closes A46 and A432, Spreads to 3 Hectares
Lyon, August 17 – A violent motorhome fire near Lyon on Sunday afternoon, August 16, caused the closure of the A46 and A432 motorways and disrupted train services. The incident occurred following a traffic accident on the A46, near Cailloux-sur-Fontaines, in the Lyon – Paris direction. Firefighters from Ain and Rhône departments were dispatched to the scene around 3:00 PM.
Accident and Initial Fire
The fire originated from a motorhome involved in a traffic accident. The two occupants of the vehicle sustained minor injuries. Despite the rapid intervention of firefighters, the blaze quickly spread beyond the motorway’s confines to the surrounding vegetation, exacerbated by dry conditions in the region.
Fire Spreads to 3 Hectares
The fire consumed approximately 3 hectares of vegetation. The rapid spread of the flames posed a significant threat to nearby industrial buildings and residential homes, necessitating extensive efforts from the emergency services to contain the conflagration and prevent further damage.
Disruption to Transport Infrastructure
The fire’s proximity to major transport routes led to considerable disruption. The A46 and A432 motorways were closed to traffic due to heavy smoke, and the SNCF railway line between Bourg-en-Bresse and Lyon Saint-Clair was halted as the fire crossed the tracks. This resulted in significant traffic jams and delays for commuters and travelers throughout the afternoon.
Emergency Response and Containment
A substantial emergency response was mounted, involving 47 firefighters and 21 vehicles. The operation was coordinated by the operational center of the fire department, with joint efforts from both Ain and Rhône fire services. Firefighters worked into the evening to bring the blaze under control. Their efforts successfully prevented a more dramatic outcome, given the prevailing dry conditions in the region.
Conclusion of Operations
Firefighting operations concluded in the late evening, with the fire fully mastered. The incident highlights the dangers of vehicle fires, particularly during periods of drought, and the critical role of rapid emergency response in mitigating widespread damage.
