Spain is battling one of the deadliest wildfires in its modern history after a fast-moving blaze swept through the southern region of Andalusia, killing at least 12 people and leaving 23 others missing as firefighters race to bring the inferno under control.
The wildfire, which tore through the Los Gallardos–Bédar area in Almería Province, spread rapidly amid scorching temperatures, dry vegetation and strong winds. Authorities said many of the victims were caught while trying to flee in their vehicles or on foot after the flames cut off escape routes. Several of those killed are believed to be foreign nationals, as the area is a popular holiday destination for British, Belgian and other European tourists.
Eyewitnesses told the BBC they had only minutes to react as a wall of smoke and flames approached. Many abandoned their cars and escaped with little more than the clothes they were wearing, describing scenes of panic as visibility disappeared and roads became impassable. Emergency shelters have been opened for displaced residents while search-and-rescue teams continue looking for the missing.
More than 150 firefighters, supported by military emergency units, aircraft and heavy equipment, remain on the front lines. Officials say the blaze may have been sparked by a fallen power line, though investigations are ongoing. Spain has endured successive heatwaves this summer, with experts warning that extreme temperatures and prolonged drought are increasing the frequency and intensity of wildfires across southern Europe.
