Deadly wildfire kills at least 11 in southern Spain

A fast-moving wildfire in southern Spain killed at least 11 people and possibly 12, injured eight others and left dozens unaccounted for after flames swept through the Almeria area, trapping some victims as they tried to escape by car and on foot.

Authorities said the fire broke out overnight into Friday near Los Gallardos in the southern province of Almeria, a popular holiday destination near the Sierra de Los Filabres mountains. CBS News, citing authorities, reported at least 11 deaths and 19 people missing. NPR reported that regional officials put the death toll at 12, with 23 people unaccounted for.

Several victims were found inside burned-out vehicles, and regional officials said many of those who died appeared to be foreign nationals. Antonio Sanz, the regional health minister of Andalucia, said four of the dead appeared to be “of British origin” because they were found in a vehicle with a steering wheel on the right side, unlike most vehicles used in continental Europe.

Regional President Juanma Moreno said on local radio that “the majority” of those killed “were foreigners” and that the process of identifying the victims was continuing. Regional emergency authorities also said four British nationals and other unspecified foreign nationals appeared to be among the dead.

Officials said some victims died after disregarding evacuation or shelter-in-place instructions. Sanz said some people chose “to find a different path (out) on their own, other than the evacuation one” recommended by officials and ended up crossing a “dry riverbed” that “became a real trap.” NPR quoted Sanz, president of Andalusia’s emergency services, as saying the riverbed “turned into a death trap.”

Seven people died on foot after abandoning their cars, Sanz said, according to NPR. He said most victims had tried to flee despite instructions to shelter in place.

“The consequences have been terrible. Everything seems to indicate that, in the case of the deceased… we are dealing for the most part, if not entirely, with foreign nationals,” Sanz said.

Authorities have not confirmed the cause of the blaze. NPR reported that callers who alerted officials said a fallen power line had sparked flames that spread rapidly into a nearby forest. Spain has been enduring severe heat, with temperatures in the south peaking near 106 degrees Fahrenheit, CBS News reported.

The fire has burned more than 3,200 hectares, or roughly 7,900 acres, of forest and farmland, according to NPR. CBS News reported the burned area at almost 7,800 acres. Flames reached a highway, increasing the danger for motorists, and authorities described the blaze as serious and concerning because it was burning through an area with plentiful vegetation.

Emergency crews mounted a large response. NPR reported that about 150 firefighters and 220 soldiers from Spain’s military emergency unit were battling the fire. CBS News said hundreds of emergency responders were working to contain it. Sanz said 122 people had been taken to a nearby theater and sports center for safety.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed condolences on X, writing: “Immense sadness and desolation in the face of the terrible consequences of the fire affecting the province of Almeria.”

Spain’s Royal Family also expressed grief. King Felipe asked for a minute of silence for the victims during a ceremony at the General Air and Space Academy in Murcia, where Princess Leonor completed military training. The family said it was “deeply saddened” and added: “We express our sadness and condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased and to all those affected. We also extend our gratitude and support to the emergency services and all those who, with professionalism and dedication, continue to work to address this situation.”