11 dead, 19 missing in Spain wildfire

A fierce wildfire in southern Spain's Almería province has resulted in at least 11 fatalities, with authorities desperately searching for 19 missing individuals. The blaze erupted Thursday in the Los Gallardos area, a challenging landscape of steep ravines and scattered homes within forested zones, quickly engulfing the region and trapping those trying to escape.

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We currently count 11 deceased.

"We currently count 11 deceased," stated Antonio Sanz, the Andalusian Minister of Emergencies, on Friday from the affected zone. He stressed that this figure remains provisional. "We are facing a situation that can only be described as a tragedy." Regional President Juan Manuel Moreno Bonilla added that 19 people are still unaccounted for.

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We are facing a situation that can only be described as a tragedy.

The fire, which remains uncontrolled and is considered one of the most severe in recent Spanish history, has also injured eight people, four of them seriously. The rugged terrain, just kilometers from the Mediterranean coast, became a "kind of death trap" due to the fire's rapid spread, according to Moreno.

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All indications suggest that the deceased are also mostly or entirely foreign nationals.

Initial investigations suggest a fallen power line may have ignited the fire. Many of the victims are believed to be foreign nationals, though identification is pending. Four victims were found in a vehicle with a right-hand drive, suggesting possible British nationality. Seven others may have been caught while attempting to flee on foot through the steep paths. Local officials had warned residents, but some reportedly ignored advice to stay indoors.

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It is very important to always heed the instructions and messages from the authorities.