Almería wildfire evacuees wait to return for pets left behind

At least twelve people have died and 1,450 were evacuated as a wildfire swept through the Levante Almeriense, affecting the municipalities of Los Gallardos and Bédar. Many residents fled with little warning, leaving behind belongings and, in several cases, pets they now desperately hope to retrieve.

The evacuation

In the town of Garrucha, a sports hall was converted into a shelter. Evacuees like Penelope, a British resident of the Los Pinos hamlet, were given only "three minutes" to leave by local police Source: infobae. Others, such as Marina—a tourist from Catalonia—were away from their rental when the fire struck, and were unable to return to collect their dog Source: infobae.

Pets come first

Many evacuees refused to abandon their animals. At the Garrucha shelter, a family from Alfaix brought their dog Fito and cat Marley, noting the animals were scared and had to travel in carriers for the first time Source: abces. In Lubrín, another reception point, dozens of people arrived with dogs, and local bars provided food for the displaced Source: abces.

The wait continues

As of Saturday, most evacuees have been moved to hotels or private homes, but they remain uncertain when they can return. Pedro Zamora, a councilor in Garrucha, stated the shelter will stay prepared in case it is needed again Source: infobae. A WhatsApp group set up by Los Gallardos officials is the main source of updates.