Tuesday, 19 August 2025

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Spain’s Wildfires Grow in Ferocity as More Troops Deployed

Spain is grappling with an unprecedented wildfire emergency — one of the most severe in decades. As infernos rage across the country, authorities have raised their response significantly, now deploying nearly 1,900 military personnel to assist firefighters and emergency teams. 

Extent of the Disaster

The wildfires have burned an estimated 344,400 hectares — roughly the size of Mallorca — according to the EU’s European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS).

Galicia and Castile and León have borne the brunt, yet flames have now spread to the Picos de Europa mountains, prompting disruption of key pilgrim routes. 

The historic Camino de Santiago pilgrimage path, between Astorga and Ponferrada, has been closed to prevent risk to walkers. 

Human Toll and Evacuations

At least four people have died, including a firefighter involved in a crash, while several others are severely injured. 

Over 31,000 people have been evacuated from vulnerable zones across Galicia alone. 

The Heatwave Factor

This crisis stems from one of the most prolonged heatwaves in 50 years, with temperatures soaring to 45 °C, creating intensely dry, fire-prone conditions.

Scientists highlight that Europe has warmed at twice the global average since the 1980s, intensifying droughts and vegetation flammability. 

Military and International Support Response

The Military Emergency Unit (UME), co-ordinated under Defence Minister Margarita Robles, has deployed 1,900 soldiers to support firefighting efforts. 

Spain has invoked the European Civil Protection Mechanism, receiving water-dumping aircraft and fire-rescue aid from Germany, Slovakia, the Netherlands, France, and Italy. 

Thick smoke is currently hindering aerial operations, complicating fire suppression from the skies. 

Political and Royal Involvement

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called for a broad, bipartisan climate pact, emphasizing national unity in facing climate emergencies. 

King Felipe VI interrupted his summer vacation to visit the UME command at Torrejón Air Base, personally conveying thanks to the forces combating the wildfires. 

Attached is a news article regarding Spain wildfires as more then 500 more soldiers deployed as blazes spread 

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz60y7npl32o.amp

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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