The fire declared on Thursday in Los Gallardos (Almería) has caused 12 fatalities and 23 missing persons, according to 112. It is the deadliest forest fire in the history of Andalusia.
The forest fire that started on Thursday night in the Almerian municipality of Los Gallardos has left a provisional toll of 12 deceased and 23 missing, as confirmed by the emergency service 112. Authorities describe it as "the fire with the greatest consequences to date" in the autonomous community.
A Devastating Fire in the Almerian Levante
The flames ignited in an area of scrubland and pine forest near the urban centre of Los Gallardos, a village of about 2,000 inhabitants in the Levante Almeriense region. The westerly winds and high temperatures hindered firefighting efforts during the initial hours.
Units from the Military Emergency Unit (UME) have been deployed to the area to support the firefighters from the Junta de Andalucía. The operation includes aerial and ground resources, although the rugged terrain complicates access to some areas.
The Deadliest Fires in Spain's History
The disaster in Los Gallardos is now among the deadliest in the country. The record is held by the fire in Lloret de Mar (Girona) in 1979, which resulted in 21 fatalities, mostly children and tourists trapped in dead-end urbanisations. It is followed by the La Gomera fire in 1984, where 20 people died after being surrounded by a change in wind while authorities were assessing the damage.
More recently, in 2005, the Guadalajara fire caused 11 deaths (nine forest firefighters and two environmental agents) and burned 13,000 hectares. That tragedy led to the creation of the UME, which is currently working in Almería.
Investigation and Consequences for Residents
The origin of the fire is under investigation by the Civil Guard. While no hypothesis is being ruled out, initial reports suggest it may have been intentional. The mayor of Los Gallardos has declared official mourning and has urged residents to exercise extreme caution.
The Junta de Andalucía has activated the emergency protocol and has set up a reception centre for those evacuated. The population is advised to avoid the area and follow the instructions of emergency services. The victim toll could rise in the coming hours as rescue teams access the most affected areas.
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