12 Killed as Wildfire Sweeps Through Southern Spain

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Madrid : A fast-moving wildfire fuelled by an intense heatwave has killed 12 people and injured six others in southern Spain, forcing evacuations and triggering a major firefighting operation.

The blaze tore through the hamlet of Bedar in Almeria province, where some victims were found inside their vehicles. Authorities later raised the death toll from six to 12 after confirming more fatalities.

At least six people were injured, including a woman with severe burns and another suffering from smoke inhalation. They were taken to hospital for treatment.

Around 150 firefighters, supported by fire engines and Spain's Military Emergencies Unit, have been battling the blaze as temperatures approached 40°C. Roads were closed and dozens of residents were evacuated, with about 50 people sheltered in a local cultural centre.

Officials have not confirmed the cause of the fire, although witnesses said a fallen power line may have ignited dry vegetation before the flames spread rapidly through nearby woodland.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Andalusian regional leader Juanma Moreno described the wildfire as a tragedy, as Spain continues to face frequent heatwaves and a worsening wildfire season linked to extreme temperatures.

Pic Credit: AFP