At least 12 dead in Spanish wildfire as heatwave grips Europe

Deadly blaze in Almería

At least 12 people have died in a fast-moving wildfire in Almería, in southern Spain, according to reporting published on Friday.

The fire spread rapidly through steep terrain and scattered homes in Andalusia, complicating evacuation and rescue efforts. Regional reporting described it as one of the deadliest wildfires in the region’s history.

Several victims were found in vehicles or on foot as they tried to escape the flames.

Missing people and injuries

Authorities are still searching for people who have not been accounted for. The reported number of missing people differs across coverage, with one account putting the figure at 19 and another at 23.

Four people were reported seriously burned, and some reporting said additional injuries were also recorded.

Emergency crews, including firefighters and military emergency units, were still battling the blaze while checking on residents and trying to identify the dead.

What officials have said

The Andalusian regional government and Spanish emergency services have continued rescue operations in the area. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed condolences, according to the reporting.

The fire has been described in coverage as Andalusia’s deadliest wildfire, although authorities are still updating casualty figures as the search continues.

Heatwave conditions

The blaze came as Spain and much of Europe sweltered under a severe heatwave. Temperatures in the affected area were reported at around 40C or higher, with strong winds and dry conditions worsening the fire risk.

Coverage cited Copernicus Climate Change Service reporting saying western Europe had its hottest June on record, adding to the broader weather conditions that have fueled wildfire danger across the region.

Cause still unconfirmed

Officials have said the fire may have started after a fallen power line or cable, but that has not been confirmed.

Crews are expected to keep searching for the missing, protect nearby settlements and work to contain the fire. Investigators are also expected to examine how the blaze began once conditions allow.