Almería wildfire stabilised as focus shifts to identifying victims

The wildfire in Los Gallardos, Almería, has been stabilised after three days, but the death toll has risen to at least 12 people, with 13 reported by some sources. The fire consumed between 6,600 and 7,000 hectares, making it the deadliest in Andalucía's history.

What happened

The fire started on Thursday near Los Gallardos and spread rapidly due to strong winds and dry conditions, advancing at up to 100 meters per minute Source: hoydo. It forced the evacuation of around 1,400 residents, though many have since returned as the blaze was stabilised on Sunday Source: elconfidencial, infobae.

Victims and identification

Formal death toll stands at 12, with one additional death reported by La Voz — a 93-year-old British woman who died in hospital Source: lavozar. Search teams completed their sweep on Sunday without finding more bodies Source: abces. However, 23 people remain unaccounted for, though only seven formal missing person reports have been filed Source: elconfidencial, excelsiormx. Identification of the charred remains is ongoing via DNA analysis in Madrid Source: elcaribedr. Four survivors with severe burns (60-70% of body) are being treated in Seville Source: elmundoes.

Investigation into cause

The origin is believed to be a fallen high-tension cable near Los Gallardos. Red Eléctrica and Endesa deny ownership of the cable, suggesting it might be a private installation from a closed restaurant . Critics point to the lack of updated local emergency plans and the chaotic urbanisation of the area as aggravating factors .