French President Emmanuel Macron said firefighters have been able to "stabilize" the blaze that raced Tuesday through forests near the French Riviera, forcing thousands of people to flee homes, campgrounds and hotels in a picturesque area beloved by residents and tourists alike. The wildfire started Monday evening during the height of France's summer vacation season about 40 kilometres inland from the coastal resort of Saint-Tropez. At least 22 people suffered from smoke inhalation or minor fire-related injuries and two firefighters were among the injured, officials said. WATCH | Firefighters battle wildfire in French Riviera:Firefighters battle wildfire in French Riviera 0:41 Hundreds of firefighters battled a wildfire Tuesday that raced through forests in southeastern France near the French Riviera and forced thousands to flee homes, campgrounds and hotels. Also Tuesday, Israeli firefighters worked for a third consecutive day to contain a wildfire that has consumed a large swath of forest west of Jerusalem.

Source: CBC News August 17, 2021 21:22 UTC