A fast-moving wildfire has devastated large areas of Catalonia in northeastern Spain, burning approximately 2,300 hectares of land and forcing nearly 10,000 residents to evacuate or remain under emergency shelter orders as firefighters battle to contain the blaze.
The fire broke out in Girona province and spread rapidly due to strong winds, dry vegetation and extremely high temperatures. Authorities closed several roads and ordered residents in multiple municipalities to stay indoors while emergency crews worked to prevent the flames from reaching populated areas and a nearby protected nature reserve.
More than 400 firefighters, supported by helicopters, firefighting aircraft and Spain’s Military Emergency Unit, have been deployed to tackle the blaze. Officials say the fire has generated several secondary outbreaks, making containment increasingly difficult. Fire commanders warned that the wildfire may have grown beyond their ability to extinguish completely, with the immediate priority now focused on limiting further damage.
Spanish police have detained a road worker on suspicion of accidentally starting the fire while operating machinery during roadworks. Investigators believe sparks from the equipment may have ignited the dry vegetation, although the exact cause remains under investigation.
The wildfire is the latest in a series of major fires affecting southern Europe during an intense summer heatwave. Scientists warn that rising temperatures, prolonged droughts and stronger winds are increasing both the frequency and intensity of wildfires across the region, placing growing pressure on emergency services and local communities.
