A wildfire tore through the Los Gallardos and Bedar area of Almería province in southern Spain on July 9, killing at least 13 people, including seven British nationals, officials said [1, 2, 3]. The fire spread rapidly due to a sustained heatwave with temperatures near 40°C (104°F), dry conditions, and strong winds up to 50 km/h (31 mph) [1, 4, 5].

About 150 firefighters, supported by Spain’s Military Emergency Unit, battled the blaze, which burned approximately 7,000 hectares (17,300 acres) before being declared contained on July 12 [4, 6]. Approximately 1,500 residents were evacuated, with some sheltered in cultural centers or temporary facilities [3].

Several victims were found trapped inside vehicles or died trying to flee on foot as the flames moved quickly through the area [1, 2]. Authorities said some deaths may have resulted from people not following the recommended evacuation routes, with Andalusia’s Emergencies Minister Antonio Sanz stating, "Unfortunately ... some used another route that wasn't recommended, which turned out to be a trap" [7].

The cause of the fire remains unconfirmed. Witnesses reported seeing a fallen power line spark the blaze, but local electricity firms deny that a downed line started the fire [1, 2].

The wildfire has been described by officials as "the most devastating fire to date in our region" and "an unprecedented tragedy," underscoring its severity [6]. Juanma Moreno, head of Andalusia’s regional government, expressed sorrow: "Our hearts are heavy and we are devastated by grief." Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said he was "deeply saddened and devastated by the terrible consequences of the wildfire" [1, 8].

Six people were injured; some hospitalized with burns or smoke inhalation, and others treated for minor injuries on scene [1, 5]. British holidaymaker Lucinda Curtois described the scene as "really frightening and unbelievably quick," comparing the smoke to a "mushroom cloud" [9].

Spain has faced increasingly severe wildfires and heatwaves in recent years linked to climate change [1, 5]. The Los Gallardos blaze ranks among the deadliest in recent Spanish history.

Firefighters continued mopping up hotspots and conducting investigations as of July 12, with victim identification and cause analysis ongoing [4]. Authorities have urged residents to follow evacuation advice in future emergencies.