Fire incidents rise sharply in Aveyron

The Departmental Fire and Rescue Service (SDIS 12) of the Aveyron reported a significant increase in fire incidents during the summer of 2026, with 258 fires burning a total of 483 hectares across 151 communes. This marked a nearly 140% increase in the number of interventions compared to the previous year, according to the service.

Major fires require large-scale response

Two fires in particular mobilized significant rescue resources. A fire in Nant, in the southern part of the department, burned 22 hectares between June 21 and 24. To combat the flames, the rescue services deployed two forest fire intervention teams from the Aveyron, a column from the SDIS of the Hérault and Gard, a specialized zonal intervention detachment, and national aerial resources.

Disruption caused by large fire in Livinhac-le-Haut

Later in the summer, a fire in Livinhac-le-Haut burned 138 hectares between August 12 and 19. Three forest fire intervention teams from the Aveyron, a team from the Lot, and the Occitanie forest fire column were notably mobilized. A zonal tactical fire was also deployed. This fire caused the disruption of a train line between Rodez and Capdenac.

Extreme weather linked to challenging fire season

Prefect Claire Chauffour-Rouillard noted that the 2026 season was "challenging and demanding in many respects," confirming fears of a succession of extreme climate events marked by severe heatwaves and a historic drought. These conditions were conducive to forest fires and natural spaces, highlighting the increased risk posed by climate change.