Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:29am on 15 Aug 2026,Saturday International
Nearly 500 people, including 183 minors, have been detained in France since July 1 on suspicion of starting wildfires, with authorities saying around 70% are suspected of deliberate arson. The arrests come as France and several European countries battle severe fires amid record-breaking heat, drought and strong winds. In southwestern France, more than 525 people were evacuated from Luglon after a blaze spread across nearly 1,100 hectares. Croatia reported one death and dozens of injuries, while thousands were evacuated elsewhere. Scientists say climate change is intensifying extreme heat and worsening wildfire conditions across Europe. (PC: The Guardian)
