Thousands evacuated as Spanish wildfires rage in 45C heat

WorldEnvironment
14 Aug 2025 • 12:29 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Wildfires across southern Europe have caused multiple fatalities, including a 55-year-old man reported to have died trying to save 26 horses from a burning stable near Madrid.
  • A 35-year-old volunteer firefighter also died, making him the sixth wildfire fatality in Spain this year, as thousands were evacuated across the region.
  • The widespread blazes, which have destroyed homes and factories, are exacerbated by a prolonged heatwave, strong winds, and suspected arson.
  • Greece has seen a cement factory engulfed and evacuations on tourist islands, while Albania is experiencing a "critical week" with 24 active wildfires.
  • Authorities are battling the infernos amidst extreme fire risk warnings, with Spain enduring its tenth day of temperatures up to 45 degrees Celsius.

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