Death toll in Southern Spain wildfire climbs to 12
The death toll from a wildfire in Almeria, Spain, has risen to 12 as authorities continue to manage the emergency. The fire, potentially caused by a fallen power line, is occurring amidst a severe heatwave in the region.
Why it matters
This incident underscores the increasing danger of wildfires in Europe driven by climate change and extreme weather conditions.
The death toll from a wildfire in Almeria in southern Spain rose to 12 after six more victims were found, authorities said Friday.
"The number of people who died in the fire in Los Gallardos has risen to 12 after the confirmation of six more deaths," the regional government of Andalusia said in a statement.
Witnesses told authorities the blaze may have started after a power line fell, igniting dry vegetation before spreading rapidly through surrounding woodland.
Authorities have not confirmed the cause of the fire.
Roads were closed and residents evacuated as the fire spread, with about 50 people housed in a cultural centre.
Spain’s Military Emergency Unit (UME), which is deployed in major emergencies, was due to join firefighting efforts in the coming hours.
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