Video: France Arrests 420 People Over Wildfires as Country Endures Historic Fire Season

French authorities have arrested 420 people suspected of deliberately or accidentally starting wildfires, as France battles one of its most destructive fire seasons in decades.

The arrests reportedly include 166 minors, while authorities say human activity—ranging from deliberate acts to negligence—is responsible for the vast majority of fire outbreaks.

More than 120,000 hectares have been scorched across France this season, with exceptionally large fires forcing mass evacuations and mobilizing thousands of firefighters. Recent reporting confirms that France has experienced extraordinary wildfire destruction this summer.

Authorities are continuing investigations into the causes of individual fires as emergency crews battle ongoing blazes and the threat of new outbreaks remains high.