Forest fires devour vast areas of Spain

Forest fires are continuing to rage across southern Europe, with northern and eastern Spain being particularly badly hit. The death toll stands at five so far, all of them firefighters. An estimated 15,000 hectares have been destroyed, 10,000 alone in the region of Aragon.

Soaring temperatures and strong winds have fanned the flames in dozens of wildfires. In Catalonia, an investigation is underway into four of the firefighter deaths. It is reported they radioed for help ten minutes before they were engulfed by flames. With the country’s resources stretched, Spain has called for help from its neighbours. Thousands of people have had to be evacuated and the authorities have issued a national alert as temperatures continue to spike across the country.More about: Portugal, Spain

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