Los Gallardos wildfire horror as 4 Brits among 11 dead with some found in cars

A wildfire has claimed the lives of at least 11 people in Spain as Europe continues to battle a raging 40C heatwave, with bodies found in burnt-out cars in Los Gallardos

A wildfire has killed at least 11 people – including four Brits – as Europe continues to grapple with a scorching 40C heatwave. Several bodies were discovered in charred vehicles in Los Gallardos, Spain, where firefighters are still battling the blaze.

Six other people have sustained injuries. Eyewitnesses claim the wildfire was sparked by a fallen power line, though officials have yet to confirm the cause.

Approximately 150 firefighters have been sent to combat the flames in a hamlet called Bedar. A sustained heatwave with temperatures of around 40C (104F) has caused wildfires across southern Europe this summer.

Hundreds of firefighters are battling major incidents in France, Portugal and Spain, with thousands forced to leave their homes. Andalusian Minister of Health, Presidency, and Emergencies, Antonio Sanz confirmed four of the deceased were found in a vehicle and are believed to be of British origin. The steering wheel of the car was on the right, he said.

“The number of people who died in the fire in Los Gallardos has risen to 12 after the confirmation of six more deaths,” the regional government of Andalusia said in a statement.

The bodies of several of the victims were found in cars, having attempted to escape the flames as the fire spread during the night, the BBC reports.

The head of the regional government, Juanma Moreno, called the deaths “a tragedy”. Writing on X after an initial toll of six deaths was announced, he said: “Our hearts are heavy and we are devastated by grief.”

The Andalusian regional government said in a later statement: “The number of people who died in the fire in Los Gallardos has risen to 12 after the confirmation of six more deaths.”

The fire has forced the evacuation of around 1,000 residents, while emergency services have closed roads in the area as crews continue battling the flames.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez wrote on X: “Immense sadness and pain seeing the terrible impact of the fires in the province of Almería.

“I want to convey my condolences to the families of those who died in the Los Gallardos forest fire. My wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured and my solidarity with all the affected neighbors.

“Members of @mitecogob, @proteccioncivil, and the Law Enforcement and Security Forces of the State are working to combat the flames. The @UMEgob has already been mobilized. Much caution.”

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