A fast-moving wildfire in Spain’s southern Andalusia region has killed at least 12 people, making it the deadliest wildfire recorded in the region’s recent history as authorities continue searching for those still missing.
The blaze broke out on Thursday afternoon near the N-340 highway in the municipality of Los Gallardos in Almeria province before strong winds rapidly pushed the flames into the neighboring municipality of Bédar.
Regional officials said several people were found trapped while attempting to flee, with emergency operations continuing amid uncertainty over the final death toll.
Authorities said 19 people remained unaccounted for as search efforts continued.
More than 300 emergency personnel, including 150 specialists from Spain’s Military Emergency Unit (UME), have been deployed to battle the wildfire.
Emergency services said several victims were discovered inside vehicles while trying to escape the advancing flames, while others were found elsewhere in the affected area.
Six people were reported injured, including a woman with severe burns and another person hospitalized for smoke inhalation, while four others received treatment for minor burns and respiratory problems.
Around 50 evacuated residents were being sheltered at a local cultural center, while emergency services also reported broader evacuations in the affected area.
Heavy smoke forced the closure of major highways as firefighting operations continued.
Authorities have not determined the exact cause of the wildfire, although regional officials said early indications suggest a downed power line may have ignited dry vegetation.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Andalusia's acting minister for health, the presidency and emergencies, Antonio Sanz described the disaster as "the most devastating fire to date in our region" and called it "an unprecedented tragedy."
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed condolences to the families of those killed, said emergency services and security forces had been mobilized alongside the UME, and urged residents to remain cautious.
The wildfire occurred as Spain experiences prolonged high temperatures that have left large areas especially vulnerable to rapidly spreading fires.