Large Forest Fire Near Lyon: 11 Hectares Burned, Canadairs Deployed
Lyon, June 23, 2026 – A significant forest fire broke out this Tuesday afternoon, June 23, 2026, in Bénonces (Ain), in the Bas Bugey region, close to the Lyon metropolitan area. The fire, which has consumed approximately 11 hectares, led to the immediate mobilization of numerous firefighters and aerial resources.
The first reports of the fire emerged around 12:30 PM, originating in a field in the municipality of Serrières-de-Briord before spreading to a forested area (Bois de la Cra). By 7:30 PM, the fire was stabilized and is currently in the process of being contained. Firefighting operations are ongoing.
Emergency Response and Public Safety Warnings
The Mayor of Villebois confirmed that the fire also affects the Vierge sector in Serrières-de-Briord. "Firefighters were immediately notified and are currently on site to intervene. We ask everyone not to go to these areas and to respect safety instructions," the municipality stated in a Facebook post.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid the sector to ensure the smooth operation of emergency services. In the village, residents are advised to drive slowly and carefully to avoid hindering rescue operations, facilitate access for intervention vehicles, and ensure everyone’s safety. Parking that obstructs emergency access is also prohibited.
Extensive Resources Deployed to Combat the Blaze
The Ain prefecture confirmed that no residential areas are in direct proximity to the fire. However, significant ground and air resources were deployed to control the situation. Approximately one hundred firefighters, 12 forest fire trucks, and four Canadair planes were dispatched to the scene. By 4:50 PM, the Canadair planes had already carried out 20 water drops.
The Prefect of Ain activated the departmental operational center at the prefecture, with the sub-prefect of Belley and the colonel commanding the SDIS 01 present on site. An assessment by drone from SDIS 01 is underway to determine the exact burned surface area. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported at this time.
Road Closures and Emergency Plans Activated
To ensure public safety and facilitate firefighting efforts, an access, traffic, and parking ban has been imposed by prefectural order on roads, lanes, and paths within the forest areas of Bénonces and Serrières-de-Briord. The departmental road D32, in the direction of Serrières-de-Briord, has also been closed to traffic.
Both the municipalities of Bénonces and Serrières-de-Briord have activated their municipal safeguard plans, demonstrating the seriousness of the situation and the coordinated response from local authorities. The FR-Alert system was also activated to warn nearby populations.
Further information will be provided as the situation develops.
Source: https://actu.fr/auvergne-rhone-alpes/lyon_69123/un-grand-feu-de-foret-en-cours-pres-de-lyon-evitez-le-secteur-un-bombardier-d-eau-envoye-pour-stopper-l-incendie_64443014.html
