By Ene Rebecca
July 10, 2026
At least 11 people have died and several others have been injured following a fast-moving wildfire that swept through parts of southern Spain’s Almería province, making it the country’s deadliest wildfire in more than two decades.
The blaze broke out near the municipality of Los Gallardos in the Andalusia region and spread rapidly through nearby communities, including the hamlet of Bédar, as extreme heat, dry vegetation and strong winds fueled the flames.
Antonio Sanz, Andalusia’s regional emergency chief, said many of the victims died while attempting to flee the advancing fire in their vehicles or on foot rather than remaining indoors as instructed by emergency authorities. Several victims were discovered inside burned-out vehicles abandoned along evacuation routes.
Emergency services said at least four other people suffered serious burns and were receiving treatment in hospital. Authorities continued search operations on Friday amid concerns that additional people could still be unaccounted for.
More than 150 firefighters, supported by Spain’s Military Emergency Unit and aerial firefighting resources, were deployed to contain the blaze and protect nearby communities. Authorities ordered evacuations in affected areas and closed several roads as crews battled the fire.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed condolences to the families of those killed and said national emergency resources had been fully mobilized to support regional authorities and firefighting operations.
The wildfire comes as Spain and several other southern European countries face intense heatwaves and elevated wildfire risks. Meteorologists have warned that prolonged high temperatures and dry conditions could continue to increase the likelihood of major fires across the region in the coming weeks.
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