Twelve dead in severe wildfire in Spain's Almería region

At least 12 people have died in a fierce wildfire raging in the southern Spanish village of Bédar, in the Almería province. Authorities reported that the victims were discovered inside their vehicles, which were completely consumed by the flames. It is believed they may have been attempting to flee the rapidly spreading fire near the village when they became trapped. The fire broke out yesterday afternoon in the Andalusia region, prompting the evacuation of Bédar's 1,000 residents. However, the evacuation process was reportedly hampered as a key access road was cut off by the fire, potentially trapping drivers attempting to leave. Emergency services confirmed the death toll, with at least six others injured. Officials acknowledge that the exact number of casualties may still rise as the fire remains uncontrolled. The mayor of Los Gallardos, Francisco Miguel Reyes, described the blaze as unlike anything previously experienced, a sentiment echoed by the regional minister of Health and Emergencies, Antonio Sanz, who stated, "Andalusia is in mourning and our hearts are with Almería and all those affected."

“

The fire is not yet under control, so it is not yet clear how many victims there are. The number may increase.