Several British individuals are feared to have perished in a wildfire that has resulted in at least 11 fatalities in Spain. Authorities have indicated that four deceased individuals discovered in a burnt car in Los Gallardos, Almería, are likely of British nationality. Additionally, concerns exist that British citizens could be among a group of individuals who lost their lives while attempting to escape the flames on foot.
Witnesses have suggested that the wildfire was sparked by a downed power line, although official confirmation on the cause is pending. Approximately 150 firefighters have been dispatched to combat the fire in a hamlet known as Bedar. This incident occurs amidst Europe’s ongoing battle with a scorching 40C heatwave.
According to reports from Spanish newspaper El Pais, among the eleven confirmed deaths in the Los Gallardos fire, ten are believed to be Belgian or British nationals, with one identified as a Spanish national. The UK’s Foreign Office is in communication with Spanish authorities following reports indicating that four Britons may have lost their lives in the wildfire. Victims found in a burnt-out vehicle with a right-hand steering wheel are suspected to be of British origin.
The Almeria wildfire has now become the third deadliest in Spanish history, as per local news outlet SUR. The tragic toll stands at 11 fatalities, with a 12th death awaiting confirmation, making it the third deadliest on record.
The blaze is believed to have originated from a private power line in Los Gallardos. Despite statements from electricity companies Endesa and Red Eléctrica disclaiming ownership of the power line, it is evident that the fire began from a private line serving an abandoned structure.
Efforts to contain the wildfire have been bolstered by the deployment of 220 soldiers from the Spanish military emergency unit. Social media footage showcases the intense spread of the wildfire in Almeria, resulting in the unfortunate loss of at least 11 lives and leaving over 20 individuals unaccounted for.
Amid the emergency, authorities emphasize the importance of following evacuation advisories promptly to safeguard lives. The situation remains critical, with the death toll potentially escalating as search and rescue operations continue in Los Gallardos.