At least 12 people have been confirmed dead, including four British tourists, as a wildfire rages through the Spanish holiday hotspot of Los Gallardos. The blaze, which erupted amid a scorching 40°C heatwave sweeping across Europe, has forced the evacuation of around 1,000 residents. Firefighters continue to battle the flames in the hamlet of Bedar, where several bodies were discovered in charred vehicles.
Details of the Incident
The regional government of Andalusia confirmed the death toll rose to 12 after six more fatalities were reported. According to Andalusian Minister of Health, Presidency, and Emergencies, Antonio Sanz, four of the deceased were found in a vehicle, with the steering wheel on the right side, indicating they were likely British. Six other people have sustained injuries in the fire.
Eyewitnesses claim the wildfire was sparked by a fallen power line, though officials have yet to confirm the cause. Approximately 150 firefighters have been deployed to combat the flames in the area.
Impact and Response
The head of the regional government, Juanma Moreno, called the deaths "a tragedy." Writing on X after an initial toll of six deaths was announced, he said: "Our hearts are heavy and we are devastated by grief." Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed his condolences on X, stating: "Immense sadness and pain seeing the terrible impact of the fires in the province of Almería. I want to convey my condolences to the families of those who died in the Los Gallardos forest fire. My wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured and my solidarity with all the affected neighbors."
Emergency services have closed roads in the area as crews continue battling the flames. Hundreds of firefighters are also tackling major incidents in France, Portugal, and Spain, with thousands forced to leave their homes. The sustained heatwave, with temperatures around 40°C (104°F), has caused wildfires across southern Europe this summer.
