A video posted by X user Daisy captured a massive cloud of smoke rising above a wildfire near Marseille on Tuesday, as the blaze forced the closure of the city’s main airport.

Authorities reported the fire erupted near Les Pennes-Mirabeau, north of Marseille, France’s second-largest city. Roughly 74 acres have burned, with 168 firefighters deployed to contain the flames using fire engines and helicopters.

The Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur prefecture issued a warning on X urging residents to stay indoors. “Close shutters and doors, keep your property clear for emergency services, and do not travel on the roads.”

BFM TV reported that strong winds prompted evacuations in Les Pennes-Mirabeau. The winds were visibly swaying trees and affecting live television coverage from the scene.

Operations at Marseille Provence airport came to a halt around midday. A spokesperson said that no flights were taking off or landing, with several aircraft diverted to Nice, Nimes, and other regional airports. The airport’s reopening time remains uncertain, as the disruption comes at the start of the summer holiday season.

Smoke from the fire reached central Marseille, according to a local resident. The municipality stated on X, “The fire is spreading. Avoid all outdoor activities and do not block emergency access routes. Follow instructions and alert messages.”

Separately, a wildfire that began Monday near Narbonne in the southwest of the country remained active. Winds of 60 kilometers per hour helped it spread across 2,000 hectares, according to local officials.