A 93-year-old British woman has died from burns sustained in a wildfire in southern Spain, as authorities confirmed seven British nationals are among 13 victims of the blazes. The woman suffered burns to 20 per cent of her body and was taken to hospital on Friday, with her death confirmed on Sunday afternoon.
Victims and Discovery
The Guardia Civil in Almeria told the Press Association that fatalities include three from Belgium and one each from the United States, France, and Spain, in addition to the seven British victims. Four British victims were found in a burnt-out car. Two British hikers were discovered alive but with severe burns, suffering 40 per cent burns according to Spanish broadcaster RTVE. Civil Guard officers located them as night fell, after a second search prompted by instinct.
Sergeant Pedro Barre told RTVE: "That experience we accumulate over the years is what tells you: take another look, give it one last try, check again just in case."
Heatwave Context
The deaths follow frequent heatwaves in Spain, with temperatures exceeding 40°C in recent years. In June, Spain experienced several days of record-setting heat, with more than 1,000 excess deaths attributed to heat.
A Foreign Office spokesman said: "Our thoughts are with all those impacted by the devastating wildfires in Spain. We are supporting British nationals affected and their families and remain in close contact with the Spanish authorities."
