Large wildfires are burning in France and Spain after a very hot and dry summer. Temperatures went above 40C in many places. More than 300,000 people have left their homes. France has had its worst fires in 20 years. Officials say the Madrid area in Spain has had its worst fire ever.

In Gironde, near the French city of Bordeaux, more than 200,000 people have left their homes. The fire burned about 420 sq km in less than four days. It is now about 15 km south of Bordeaux. Fires near Madrid have burned about 770 sq km. Strong fires can make large storm clouds. These clouds can bring lightning and start more fires.

About 2,500 firefighters, 1,500 soldiers, and 1,200 police officers are fighting the fire in Gironde. Planes drop water and a special liquid to slow the flames. Workers also remove trees and plants to make wide empty areas that can stop the fire. Spanish teams use similar methods. Officials fear that the fires may get worse because the next week may be hotter and drier. Climate change is making hot, dry weather more common, so fires can grow faster.