Europe

Spain faces deadly wildfires, at least 12 killed, 19 missing in Andalusia

A week-long heatwave across southern Spain has fuelled severe wildfires in the Andalusia region. Authorities have confirmed at least 12 deaths, with 19 people still missing. It is being recorded as the region's deadliest wildfire disaster in 20 years.

Wildfire smoke rising over a hillside
Wildfire smoke rising over a hillsidePhoto: Tim Mossholder / Pexels
France 24 Europe4 h ago

A prolonged heatwave gripping southern Spain has driven fast-moving wildfires across the Andalusia region. Authorities said the fires have so far killed at least 12 people, with 19 others still missing.

Thousands of firefighters and soldiers have been working to contain the blazes as villages were evacuated and roads closed. Officials say dry vegetation and strong winds have accelerated the fires' spread.

Regional authorities have described the disaster as the deadliest wildfire event in the region in 20 years. Search and rescue teams continue looking for the missing as the government prepares emergency aid packages for affected families.

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This article is an AI-curated summary of the original story published by France 24 Europe. The illustration is a stock photo by Tim Mossholder from Pexels and is not from the original story.

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