Spain, France race to control wildfires before new heatwave hits

Spain and France are facing a decisive week in their battle against devastating wildfires, as a new heatwave looms, threatening to reignite existing blazes. In Spain, authorities reported a slowdown in the advance of historically large fires near Madrid and in the country's southwest. However, they are racing against time to stabilize the perimeters before extreme temperatures, predicted from Wednesday, escalate the risk.

The fires around Madrid, alongside another significant blaze in Castellón in the east, have consumed vast areas. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez visited Castellón, warning of difficult hours ahead due to rising temperatures. The fires spread rapidly, fueled by dry vegetation from successive heatwaves since May and a lack of rainfall. In the Madrid region alone, tens of thousands of hectares have burned, forcing the evacuation of 75,000 people.

David Sánchez, a 48-year-old painter, returned to his home near Cebreros to find his olive and pistachio crops destroyed. "It's a mess, honestly. And the fire started up again down there," he lamented, describing the smoke-filled air and lingering smell of burning vegetation. The fire, originating in Ávila province and spreading to the Madrid region, is considered by the government to be the largest forest fire in recent history, affecting nearly 50,000 hectares.

Volunteers described the scene as devastating, with reports of dead animals. While authorities state the fires' advance has diminished, they remain active and unstable. The window for control is narrow, with temperatures potentially reaching 40°C by Sunday. Prime Minister Sánchez attributed the crisis to climate change, stating, "It is no longer an exception, it is the rule itself."

Across the border in France, near Bordeaux, the country is grappling with one of its worst fires since World War II. This blaze has already scorched 42,000 hectares, forcing evacuations. French President Emmanuel Macron has predicted "tough weeks" ahead as the country confronts similar challenges.

“

duras