Wildfires in southern France and northern Spain have triggered a mass evacuation, with more than 250,000 people fleeing their homes in a desperate bid to escape the inferno.
The devastating blaze, which emerged today, has ravaged large swathes of land in the regions of Girona and Pyrenees-Orientales in France, and Catalonia in Spain.
It is understood to have taken hold in the early hours of yesterday morning, with flames spreading rapidly due to strong winds and scorching temperatures.
Eyewitnesses have described the scene as 'apocalyptic', with towering flames engulfing everything in their path, and a thick haze of smoke hanging over the affected areas.

Emergency services have been working tirelessly to contain the blaze, with firefighters from across the region rushing to the centre of the affected areas to battle the flames.
Residents have been forced to flee their homes, with many taking shelter in nearby towns and cities.
The evacuation effort has been described as 'one of the largest in recent history', with authorities scrambling to accommodate the hundreds of thousands of displaced people.
As the situation continues to unfold, the full extent of the damage is yet to be determined, but it is clear that the impact will be felt for weeks to come.

The cause of the wildfires remains unclear, but it is understood that a combination of factors, including hot weather and strong winds, may have contributed to the outbreak.
Local authorities have promised to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident once the situation has been brought under control.
In the meantime, residents are being advised to remain vigilant and to follow all instructions from local authorities.
The international community has offered its support to the affected regions, with many countries pledging aid and assistance to help with the relief efforts.

As the situation continues to develop, our thoughts are with the people of France and Spain, who are facing one of the most challenging times in recent memory.
The bravery and resilience of the emergency services, who have been working tirelessly to contain the blaze, is a testament to the strength and solidarity of the affected communities.