Deadly wildfires sweep Spain and France amid extreme heat; volunteer firefighter killed in Savoie
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At least 11–12 people have been killed and more than 23 remain missing as fast‑moving wildfires tear through southern Spain’s Almería province, while a separate blaze in France’s Savoie region claimed the life of a 22‑year‑old volunteer firefighter.
Spain: One of the Deadliest Wildfires in Decades
The wildfire near Los Gallardos in Andalusia has become one of Spain’s deadliest on record, with victims found inside burned‑out vehicles and along escape routes that turned into “death traps.” Strong winds caused the fire to spread with explosive speed, forcing evacuations from multiple communities and threatening campsites with hundreds of people.
Authorities say many victims were foreign nationals, including several believed to be British. Emergency services report that 150 firefighters and 220 military personnel are battling the blaze, which has already consumed over 3,200 hectares of forest and farmland. The cause is under investigation, though early reports suggest a fallen power line may have ignited the fire.
France: Young Firefighter Killed in Savoie
In France, a 22‑year‑old volunteer firefighter from the Albertville station died early Wednesday morning while fighting a wildfire in Le Planay, Savoie. The fire began on June 24 after a thunderstorm and intensified under strong winds. While operating on steep terrain around 5:00 a.m., the firefighter was struck by a boulder that broke loose from the mountainside. Local authorities describe the terrain as extremely difficult and the fire as still under close surveillance.
Heatwaves Fuelling Extreme Fire Behaviour Across Europe
Both Spain and France are experiencing record‑breaking heat, with temperatures exceeding 40°C, leaving vegetation tinder‑dry and accelerating fire spread. Officials warn that Europe’s wildfire season is starting earlier and becoming more severe due to prolonged heatwaves and drought conditions.
Photo Credit: A wildfire near Girona in Catalonia, north-eastern Spain/ Photo: Social media
Further Reading:
https://srpske.rs/en/news/svet/2026/07/07/europe-heatwave-death-toll-tops-5600-wildfires
https://wmbdradio.com/2026/07/08/french-firefigher-dies-in-wildfire-in-savoie-region-minister-says/?