Spain: Emergency crews working to contain wildfire in Tarbena Municipality, Valencian Community, as of April 15

Emergency crews are working to contain a wildfire in Tarbena Municipality, Valencian Community, as of April 15. The fire broke out in the Serra Ferrer between Tarbena and Xalo around 12:20 April 14 and has spread to an estimated 600 hectares (1,483 acres). The fire is uncontrolled, and nearly 226 personnel are on site tackling the blaze. Hot, dry, and windy conditions combined with inaccessible terrain are hampering firefighting efforts. Further wildfire growth is likely over the coming hours and days.

Authorities have issued evacuation orders for around 180 residents in Tarbena and Parcent; a temporary shelter for evacuated residents has been established at the Tarbena House of Culture. Several roads in the area have been closed by authorities, including the CV-715 and CV-752. At least three firefighters have suffered minor injuries during firefighting operations. Authorities could implement new evacuation orders depending on evolving wildfire conditions.

The status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operations. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region. Power outages are possible if fires damage power infrastructure. Authorities may cut off power to parts of the affected area to aid firefighting efforts.