France wildfires uncover hidden World War II ammunition cache after 400 shells explode

A wildfire in Le Porge, Gironde, France, uncovered about 400 World War II-era shells and munitions after explosions were heard.

Firefighters heard over 100 explosions over two nights, initially mistaken for gas cylinders but later identified as buried wartime ammunition detonated by heat.

The wildfire burned for about 10 days, destroyed over 180 homes, and forced evacuations; demining teams have secured most of the area.

The recovered explosives included German and French mortar shells and anti-tank ammunition; Mayor Martial Zaninetti said no one knew the depots existed.

Access to the Atlantic coast, a nearby campsite, and the village of La Jenny remains restricted until the area is declared safe.