The southern French department of Aude is still battling what officials have called the “largest fire of the summer,” with more than 16,000 hectares (39,000 acres) of vegetation scorched as of Thursday.
The Aude prefecture reported Wednesday evening that the blaze, which ignited Tuesday, had consumed more than 16,000 hectares within 24 hours and remains uncontrolled.
Nearly 2,100 firefighters are working to contain the fire across 15 municipalities.
Authorities have confirmed one death, 13 injuries – including two in critical condition and three people remain missing.
Firefighters are cautiously optimistic about containing the blaze by day’s end as its spread begins to slow, according to broadcaster BFM TV.
