Thousands return home in Spain but new heatwave raises wildfire fears
Thousands of residents in Spain have been allowed to return home following wildfires, though authorities remain on high alert due to an incoming heatwave. France is also bracing for extreme temperatures, with fire services implementing special protections for critical industrial sites.
Why it matters
The recurring heatwaves and wildfires highlight the increasing impact of climate change on European infrastructure and public safety.
Image source, AFP via Getty Images Image caption, This woman returned home for the first time since fire swept through her town of Navas del Rey
Spanish authorities have allowed thousands of people evacuated because of wildfires to return to their homes after restrictions were lifted in the areas of Toledo, Madrid, Ávila, and Castellón.
In the Madrid region alone, 24,000 people have been told they can return and lockdowns on another 20,000 have been lifted.
Spain and France are both braced for the start of the fourth heatwave so far this summer and some fires have continued to burn, including one at Burgohondo 150km (93 miles) west of Madrid.
In south-west France, the largest fires in the Gironde region are described as "still stabilised" despite several flare-ups, however officials warn of dry winds and temperatures of up to 41C (106F).
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in