Wildfire Near Los Gallardos Kills 12 as Authorities Stabilize Blaze

Overview

• The fire, which began on Thursday night near Los Gallardos in Almería, spread extremely fast through steep ravines and trapped people who tried to flee by uncoordinated routes.
• Regional authorities have confirmed 11–12 deaths so far and report several dozen people unaccounted for as searches continue and autopsies proceed.
• Hundreds of firefighters, the Unidad Militar de Emergencias and multiple aircraft fought the blaze that burned several thousand hectares, with official estimates ranging roughly from 3,150 to 6,600 hectares.
• Officials say witnesses reported a fallen electricity cable as a possible ignition source and investigators are treating that as a lead while cautioning that causes remain unconfirmed.
• With the fire now described as stabilised, some evacuees have been allowed to return and authorities warn that DNA identification, cross-border family notifications and review of evacuation procedures will shape the next phase of the response.