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Spain Wildfires Force Evacuations Near Popular Beach Resorts

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A rapidly spreading wildfire has compelled holidaymakers and residents to evacuate popular beach resorts in southern Spain. The fire ignited near the coastal town of Tarifa in Cadiz, Andalusia, around 16:00 local time on Tuesday, originating from a motorhome at the Torre de la Pena campsite. The flames quickly advanced across the drought-stricken terrain, threatening residential areas, campsites, and tourist attractions.

Strong winds have exacerbated the situation, causing thick black smoke to blanket nearby beaches. Authorities have closed the N-340 highway between Las Pinas and Pedro Valiente, disrupting travel in the area. Emergency services are actively combating the fire with the support of five helicopters, two water-bombing aircraft, a coordination plane, and numerous ground teams.

While several caravans have already been destroyed, venues such as the Wawa Hotel and various beachside bars, known as chiringuitos, have been evacuated. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported so far. Tarifa’s Mayor, Jose Antonio Santos, described the wildfire as “the fastest-spreading fire I’ve ever seen,” calling the current conditions “unprecedented” for the region.

Authorities have confirmed the evacuation of restaurants and hotels within a three-kilometre radius from La Pena to Casas de Porros, as reported by the local publication Europa Sur. Beachgoers have received urgent warnings to vacate the vicinity, and Algeciras Mayor Jose Ignacio Landaluce has expressed his commitment to supporting the emergency response.

As the fire approaches the Estrecho Natural Park, precautions are being implemented to safeguard nearby communities, including Valdevaqueros. The INFOCA agency, responsible for wildfire response in Andalusia, is leading the coordination efforts on the ground.

Despite the ongoing emergency, operations at Gibraltar Airport, located just 48 kilometres away, remain unaffected, with all scheduled flights operating on time. This wildfire follows a series of incidents across the Iberian Peninsula, including a significant fire near Madrid last month. Officials in both Spain and Portugal are on high alert as extreme summer heat and dry conditions continue to present serious wildfire risks.

Residents and tourists are advised to stay clear of affected areas, particularly as key access routes remain closed. The unfolding situation highlights the persistent challenges posed by climate conditions in the region, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance against wildfires.

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