Wildfire in Guadalajara burns 12,000 hectares, investigation underway

A wildfire that started on Thursday in La Mierla (Guadalajara) has burned between 12,000 and 13,000 hectares, forcing the evacuation of 16 municipalities and displacing over 700 people Source: elnacionalve; lavanguardia. The fire, still at Level 2 of the emergency plan, has primarily affected the Sierra Norte Natural Park, with 90% of the scorched area within its boundaries Source: elespanol. Over 200 firefighters and military personnel, supported by more than 25 aircraft, are battling the blaze Source: elnacionalve.

Political controversy and investigation

The Guardia Civil is investigating Ruben Marchamalo, the mayor of Robledillo de Mohernando from the Vox party, as the alleged originator of the fire during harvesting operations Source: elconfidencial; euronewses. At the time, the potential fire propagation index was "very high," allowing harvesting with safety measures, but Marchamalo had reportedly protested restrictions earlier Source: elconfidencial. Regional president Emiliano Garcia-Page urged against politicizing the incident, stating, "the blame is not on farmers, but on those who break the law" Source: abces.

Recovery plans

The regional government is already drafting a recovery plan for the affected area, focusing on restoring the primary sector and nature tourism Source: infobae; elmundoes. Concerns remain about strong winds and an approaching third heatwave, which could worsen conditions Source: elnacionalve.