Madrid Reports More Fires but Fewer Hectares Burned in 2026

Madrid has recorded 159 forest fires between January and July 12, 2026, the highest number in recent years, but 81% were conatos (affecting less than one hectare), resulting in only 122 hectares burned — four times less than the historical average Source: elmundoes. The rapid response and improved detection systems have kept the damage low despite the increased number of incidents.

Fire season overview

The 159 incidents represent a 6% increase over 2025 and exceed the 131 average for the last eight years. However, only 1.96 hectares were forested land. The Comunidad de Madrid attributes this to faster attack protocols and enhanced surveillance Source: abces. The high-risk period runs from June 15 to September 30, with most of the summer still ahead.

Response and resources

The regional government has deployed 6,100 professionals and volunteers, a 2.3% increase, with a budget of €52.7 million, up 3.5% Source: elmundoes. An additional €38.7 million was approved for 36 new heavy rural fire engines, the largest such purchase in a decade. The operation includes 571 frontline staff, 22 fire stations, 25 forest brigades, 10 helicopters, and drone and camera surveillance Source: elmundoes.

Causes and prevention

While the consejero Carlos Novillo cited early high temperatures and low rainfall as stressing vegetation, he noted it's too early to determine exact causes and stressed that climate change is "one more factor," not the main cause, alongside rural abandonment and lack of agricultural practices Source: elmundoes. ABC reports that Novillo criticized using climate change as an "excuse" and called for a culture of prevention, including campaigns to avoid flammable species near homes Source: abces.