Seven British nationals have tragically died as deadly wildfires sweep through southern Spain, police have confirmed. The deaths come after numerous intense heatwaves in recent years, with temperatures exceeding 40°C.
Thirteen Dead in Total, Including Multiple Nationalities
A spokeswoman for the Guardia Civil in Almeria told the Press Association that along with the seven British fatalities, there were three deaths from Belgium and one each from the United States, France, and Spain. The wildfires have spread rapidly through the region, claiming a total of 13 lives.
The Andalusian government reported that a 93-year-old British woman was taken to hospital on Friday after suffering burns to about 20 per cent of her body. Her death was sadly confirmed on Sunday afternoon.
Four Found in Burnt-Out Car; Two Hikers Survive
Another four British victims were discovered after their bodies were found in a burnt-out car. On Sunday, it was reported that two British hikers had been found alive but badly burned. The man and woman are thought to have suffered 40 per cent burns, according to Spanish national broadcaster RTVE. The pair were discovered by a team of Civil Guards, who said they had already checked the area but had a feeling that they should go back.
In an interview with RTVE, Civil Guard Sergeant Pedro Barre said: "That experience we accumulate over the years is what tells you: take another look, give it one last try, check again just in case." The officers found the two British people alive just as night was falling.
Heatwave Context and Official Response
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."
