Wildfires Force Evacuation of Over 40,000 in Spain

A massive wildfire in Spain has forced the evacuation or confinement of over 40,000 people across numerous towns in Madrid and Ávila provinces. The uncontrolled flames have consumed more than 18,000 hectares, leading the central government to declare a national emergency and seek assistance from Europe. The situation remains critical, with authorities warning that the number of displaced individuals could rise if the fire continues its advance.

In the southwest of Madrid, the fire has already ravaged over 12,000 hectares. Regional president Isabel Díaz Ayuso confirmed that 20,000 people have left their homes. The fire, which originated in Villa del Prado and San Martín de Valdeiglesias, is spreading northward, fueled by strong winds gusting up to 60 kilometers per hour. These winds are causing embers to travel long distances, jumping containment lines and igniting new fires, complicating efforts to control the blaze.

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We are witnessing a crisis that could have been avoided, and which disproportionately affects children.

Adding to the crisis, one person has been arrested and another is under investigation for their alleged role in the Ávila fire, which has burned at least 6,000 hectares. The suspected cause is gross negligence involving heavy machinery, an activity strictly prohibited by law. The rugged terrain, dense vegetation, and adverse weather conditions, including high temperatures and strong winds, are significant obstacles for firefighters.

Spain has already seen over 114,000 hectares consumed by wildfires this year, according to the Minister for Ecological Transition, Sara Aagesen. This figure is five times higher than in the same period of 2025. Other estimates place the total burned area even higher. Recent weeks have been particularly devastating in Almería, where 13 people died and 7,000 hectares burned.

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We should not accept that this becomes the new normal.