12/07/2026 16:19 - Internacionales
The municipality of Los Gallardos, located in the province of Almería within the Andalusia region of southern Spain, is facing one of the worst environmental emergencies in recent years. The wildfire broke out on July 9, 2026. While the toll is heartbreaking, shifting weather conditions are providing a glimmer of hope for rescue teams.
The fire was triggered by the collapse of a high-voltage power pole on Thursday afternoon. Spain's Minister of the Presidency, Félix Bolaños, attributed the unprecedented behavior of the flames, which advanced at speeds of up to 100 meters per minute, to the climate emergency impacting the Mediterranean region.
Antonio Sanz, the regional head of Emergencies for Andalusia, delivered an encouraging update regarding weather conditions. In statements reported by the Spanish press, Sanz noted that during the previous night, there were no direct new threats to populated areas and no additional fatalities.
“We have very weak winds, relative humidity around 50%, and for the first time, a window of opportunity has opened. This is the first day we can work on attacking the fire directly,” Sanz highlighted.
To combat the emergency, a massive operation has been deployed. Since early morning, 22 aerial units have been incorporated to douse the flames from the sky. On the ground, 500 personnel are working tirelessly to contain the fire's advance. They are supported by the UME (Unidad Militar de Emergencias, a specialized branch of the Spanish Armed Forces dedicated to disaster relief) and the Guardia Civil (Spain's national law enforcement agency).
Spain's Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares, used his social media accounts to express gratitude for the international support. “I thank all the solidarity and condolences conveyed by so many countries and Foreign Ministers for Almería, Andalusia, and Spain during these painful moments caused by the terrible wildfires,” he wrote.
Source: TN
Alfredo S. Quiroga
