18 Jul 2022 | 10:01 AM UTC
Spain: Emergency crews working to contain wildfire in Zamora Province, Castile and Leon Autonomous Community, as of July 18
Emergency crews working to contain a wildfire in Castile and Leon Autonomous Community, Spain, as of July 18. Evacuations are ongoing.
Event
Emergency crews are working to contain a wildfire in Zamora Province in Castile and Leon Autonomous Community as of July 18. The fire broke out July 17 and is located in the Sierra de la Culebra mountain range near the village of Losacio. Authorities have not provided an estimated containment date for the fire. The fire has broken out amid an ongoing heatwave across the Iberian Peninsula. The persistent hot, dry, and windy conditions will likely lead to further fire growth in the coming hours and days.
As of July 18, authorities have evacuated over 1,800 people from the settlements of Sesnandez, Ferreruela, San Martin de Tabara, Riofrio de Aliste, Abejera, Escober de Tabara, Olmilos de Castro, and Litos. An evacuation shelter has been established at the sports pavilion in Tabara. Two fatalities have been reported associated with the fire, including one firefighter. Several roads in the vicinity of the fire are closed, including the N-631 highway between Moreruela de Tabara and Litos. Train services have also been suspended on the AVE Madrid-Galicia high-speed line between Sanabria and Zamora.
Emergency responders may implement further road closures at short notice depending on evolving wildfire conditions and operational needs. Smoke from the fire could cause poor air quality in the affected area. Authorities may introduce further mandatory evacuation orders at short notice. The fire could also lead to power supply disruptions.
Advice
Heed any evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will likely cause increased congestion and delays. Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in a "go-bag" that can be easily accessed. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.
