"Winds are causing the flames to continue down the mountainside towards the town of Asciano in the district of San Giuliano Terme," according to local authorities.
The fires in the mountain brush had been raging for a day when the evacuation was ordered on Friday. Three aircraft, including helicopters, took part in the efforts.
Meanwhile, France announced that it is sending help to extinguish forest fires raging in the Netherlands. French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez confirmed on X that rescue personnel and vehicles are assisting in the efforts.
A spokesman for the Dutch military said that military exercises were underway in areas affected by the fires, and that possible connections were being investigated.
