At least 11 Fatalities Reported in Spanish Wildfire Amid Ongoing Southern Europe Heatwave

The Andalusian regional authorities report at least 11 fatalities and six injuries in a wildfire that struck southern Spain.

Around 150 firefighters are battling the blaze, which witnesses allege began when a power line fell before the fire spread into the wooded area of Los Gallardos, Almería. The official cause of the incident remains unverified.

The summer’s persistent heatwave, with temperatures approaching 40 °C (104 °F), has triggered widespread wildfires across southern Europe.

Hundreds of fire personnel are confronting major incidents in France, Portugal, and Spain, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate.

The 11 victims’ bodies were recovered in and around the small village of Bédar, located just outside Los Gallardos.

Antonio Sanz, Andalusia’s health and emergency minister, described the fire as complex and rapid. While the regional government initially reported 12 deaths, Sanz emphasized that the figure was provisional.

Sanz noted that four victims were discovered in their vehicles, while others were found in different locations, evidently attempting to flee the fire.

Regional leader Juanma Moreno described the fatalities as a tragedy. In a post on X as details unfolded overnight, he wrote: “Our hearts are heavy and we are devastated by grief.”

Among the injured, one individual was hospitalized for smoke inhalation, and another suffered burns. Four others received on‑site treatment for minor burns and respiratory issues caused by the dense smoke.

The blaze prompted road closures, and approximately 1,000 residents were evacuated, according to emergency services.

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