Key facts
- Seven Britons were among 13 people killed in wildfires in southern Spain.
- Twelve of the 13 victims were foreign nationals.
- The victims included nationals from the UK, Belgium, France, and the United States.
- The fires occurred in Spain's Almería province.
- The wildfires have been contained and burned approximately 7,000 hectares.
Seven Britons were among 13 people killed in deadly wildfires that swept through Spain's Almería province. Spanish authorities confirmed on Tuesday that 12 of the victims were foreign nationals, including three from Belgium, one from France, and one from the United States. The remaining victim was a Spanish citizen.
The wildfires, which tore through the region on Thursday, have become one of the country's deadliest. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office stated it is supporting affected British nationals and their families and is in close contact with Spanish authorities.
Among the British victims were Pete and Fran Gillam, a couple who lived in Bédar, the village most affected by the fires. Their daughter confirmed their deaths.
Nearly 1,500 people were evacuated as firefighters battled the flames. British resident Malcolm Timbrell, 70, survived the fires in Bédar and described his harrowing escape from his destroyed home, witnessing multiple cars combust while he took refuge in one that survived. His wife and friends are believed to be among those killed.
The fires, now contained, burned through approximately 7,000 hectares (17,300 acres) of land. Spain has experienced frequent and severe heatwaves in recent years.