Spain is struggling to contain its largest wildfire of the year, which has burned over 50,000 hectares near the city of Avila, west of Madrid. Firefighters are racing to bring the blaze under control before a new heatwave is expected to hit the region, potentially worsening conditions.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said authorities are beginning to 'see light at the end of the tunnel' in the battle against the wildfires, but warned that these fires are a reminder to plan for a 'worsening' climate emergency. The fires have forced evacuations and disrupted lives, with some tourists describing the surreal scene of holidaymakers enjoying beaches while a major catastrophe unfolded nearby.
The blazes come as parts of Europe face another heatwave, raising concerns that the fire season could intensify. Spain and France have already deployed water-bombing aircraft and hundreds of firefighters to tackle the flames. Officials urge caution as high temperatures and dry conditions persist.