Tragic Wildfire in Andalusia Claims 12 Lives Amid Heatwave

Jul 10, 2026

69 min

Jul 10, 2026 02:31

Spain wildfire tragedy: Death toll in Andalusia rises to 12 amid scorching heatwave

## Rising Death Toll in Andalusia

A devastating wildfire in southern Spain's Almeria province has claimed 12 lives, with victims found in vehicles in the hamlet of Bedar. The regional government updated the death toll from an initial six as the blaze, fueled by a severe heatwave, continues to wreak havoc.

## Firefighting Efforts

Around 150 firefighters, supported by five fire trucks, are battling the inferno, which erupted as temperatures soared to nearly 40°C. The fire has also injured six individuals, including a woman with burns and another person suffering from smoke inhalation.

## Possible Cause and Evacuations

Witnesses suggest the fire may have started due to a fallen power line igniting dry vegetation, though this remains unconfirmed. Authorities have closed roads and evacuated residents, with about 50 people taking shelter in a cultural center.

## Government Response

Spain's Military Emergency Unit is set to join the firefighting efforts. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed his sorrow over the tragedy, highlighting the country's largest-ever summer wildfire response. Regional leader Juanma Moreno described the situation as a "tragedy" and expressed deep grief.

## Heatwave and Wildfire Trends

Spain is enduring a heatwave with temperatures triggering orange weather warnings in Andalusia. The country has faced increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves, contributing to severe wildfires. Last year, wildfires destroyed nearly 400,000 hectares, the highest on record according to the European Forest Fire Information System.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents