Spain wildfire kills 11, leaves 19 missing

A wildfire in southern Spain's Almeria province has claimed at least 11 lives, with 19 people still missing as firefighters battle to control the blaze. Authorities reported that most of the victims were foreign nationals who disregarded instructions to shelter in place, leading to their deaths in vehicles or while trying to escape on foot.

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The consequences have been terrible. Everything seems to indicate that, in the case of the dead, the majority - or all of them - are foreign nationals.

The rapid spread of the flames in a wooded area near Los Gallardos, particularly affecting the hamlet of Bedar, was attributed to strong winds. The region's numerous ravines have further complicated access for emergency services.

Regional head of emergencies Antonio Sanz described the consequences as "terrible," noting that four individuals, likely British, died in one car, while seven others were found deceased after abandoning their vehicles. He urged residents to follow official guidance and avoid risks.

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It was mainly the wind that was blowing in the afternoon that caused it to spread. As the afternoon wore on, we could see the fire was racing ahead, devouring farmhouses, holiday homes and cars, so we sprang into action.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed "enormous sadness and devastation" over the fire's impact. The incident is Spain's deadliest wildfire since 2005, when 11 firefighters perished. Early summer heatwaves across Europe have contributed to parched land, increasing wildfire vulnerability.

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I felt enormous sadness and devastation over the consequences of the fire, offering my condolences to the families of the victims.