Because of the severe forest fires, Spain has declared a state of emergency in the area around the capital Madrid and another region.
July 24, 2026, 10:07 amJuly 24, 2026, 10:07 am
The Interior Ministry announced that night that it would send additional forces to fight the flames. The operational command was taken over by a military crisis unit located directly within the government. In addition, the declaration of a “state of emergency of national concern” means more money is available.
Severe forest fires are raging in Spain.Image: keystone
According to a report by public broadcaster RTVE, this is the first time such a state of emergency has been declared due to forest fires. Because of the fires, more than 11,500 people have now had to leave their homes, including 10,000 in the greater Madrid area. In the Ávila region to the northwest, around 1,500 residents were evacuated. In several communities, the flames even threatened the center.
Tourists evacuated: forest fires rage in France and Spain
Video: watson/Emanuella Kälin
Weather conditions on Friday “particularly unfavorable”
Many are now waiting in emergency accommodation or with family members or friends until they can return – without there being a specific date. It is feared that even more people will have to be evacuated because the fires can no longer be kept under control. The Interior Ministry warned of “particularly unfavorable” weather conditions for Friday: strong gusts of wind could further fan the fires.
In total, more than 125,000 hectares of land have already burned in Spain this year. There are also larger fires in France and Italy. (dab/sda/dpa)