00:25A deadly wildfire has ripped
00:28through southern Spain, leaving at least 12 people dead and several others injured as
00:33firefighters battle to control the fast-moving flames.
00:38The massive blaze broke out on Thursday in Los Gallardos, located in Spain's southern
00:44Almiria province in Andalusia, and remains active as emergency crews continue containment
00:51efforts.
00:52Authorities say the death toll rose to 12 after six additional bodies were discovered.
00:59Several victims were reportedly found trapped inside vehicles in the nearby hamlet of Bader,
01:05where flames spread rapidly and caught residents off guard.
01:09At least six people have been injured in the disaster.
01:13Officials say one woman suffered burns, while another was treated for smoke inhalation.
01:18Others received medical attention for minor burns and breathing problems caused by thick
01:24smoke.
01:25The wildfire forced evacuations across the area, with roads closed as flames moved through dry
01:32woodland and vegetation.
01:34Around 50 residents were moved to temporary shelters at a local cultural center.
01:39Nearly 150 firefighters are now battling the blaze, supported by aircraft and emergency teams.
01:47Spain's military emergency unit, known as the UME, has also been deployed to assist firefighting
01:54operations.
01:56The fires spread rapidly under extreme weather conditions, with high temperatures, dry vegetation,
02:02and strong winds creating dangerous wildfire conditions across the region.
02:08Witnesses have suggested that a fallen powerline may have sparked the blaze by igniting dry vegetation,
02:14though authorities have not yet confirmed the official cause.
02:18The disaster comes as Spain faces another difficult wildfire season, with southern Europe experiencing
02:26longer and more intense fire periods, linked to rising temperatures, drought, and changing
02:32climate patterns.
02:35Andalusia regional leader Juanma Moreno described the incident as a tragedy and expressed condolences
02:41to the victims and their families.
02:43Emergency support services have also established a hotline to provide psychological assistance
02:50to those affected by the deadly fire.
02:53Fire crews remain on the ground as they work to contain the flames and prevent further destruction.
03:00The situation remains active, with authorities warning that changing weather conditions could
03:05continue to challenge firefighting efforts.
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