The authorities said the evacuations covered 26 areas in the mountain range west of the city of Perpignan, after the fires burned nearly 4,600 hectares, fuelled by strong winds, soaring temperatures and exceptionally low humidity.

Residents were urged to avoid using roads in the affected areas to facilitate the movement of firefighting teams and not to return to their homes until further notice.

In a related development, the wildfires forced organisers to alter the route of the third stage of the Tour de France, which will be held without spectators or the promotional caravan.