Key facts
- Spain declared a national emergency due to wildfires near Madrid and in Avila.
- More than 10,000 people have been evacuated.
- The decision was made due to simultaneous fires, adverse weather, and the need for extensive resources.
- The regional government of Madrid requested assistance, calling the situation 'extreme gravity'.
- Over 100,000 hectares have burned in Spain this year, resulting in 13 deaths.
The Spanish government declared a national emergency on Thursday night following a series of wildfires threatening communities near Madrid and in the province of Avila. The decision, prompted by simultaneous outbreaks, adverse weather conditions, and the complexity of mobilizing resources, led to the evacuation of over 10,000 people.
Scientists link Spain's increasingly severe wildfire seasons to climate change, noting that heavy spring rainfall followed by extreme summer heat has created dry vegetation, fueling rapidly spreading fires. The regional government of Madrid described the situation as one of 'extreme gravity,' with fires in Villa del Prado, San Martin de Valdeiglesias, and Almorox having the potential to exceed extinguishing capacity. The wildfire in Burgohondo, Avila, was also noted as a potential threat to the Madrid region.
Under the National Civil Protection System law, the emergency declaration places the situation under the direct authority of the interior minister. Over 270 emergency personnel and 40 ground units, along with several Military Emergency Unit contingents, have been deployed. This year, Spain has already seen more than 100,000 hectares burn, with 13 fatalities, marking one of the deadliest wildfire seasons in decades.