Forest fire in Spain: more than 3,000 people fleeing

In Andalusia, thousands are fleeing a forest of forest fires. More than 500 firefighters fight the flames with military support. But it is not yet possible to predict when they will be removed.

A forest fire has gotten out of control in Andalusia, in southern Spain. More than 3,100 people escaped to safety and left their apartments and houses, authorities announced.

So far, the fire has devastated 100 square kilometers of land. Among other things, a hotel on the Costa del Sol was destroyed. 16 helicopters and eight planes were in action, helping more than 500 firefighters and army rescuers fight the flames. When the forest fire will be controlled, it is difficult to say, said an employee of the Andalusian forest firefighters.

Another fire in Murcia

The weather plays an important role. The uneven terrain also makes it difficult to reach all affected areas, he said. The fire broke out on Thursday in the mountains near Almonaster la Real, northwest of Seville.

Another 70 people were taken to safety on Saturday due to another fire in the town of Mula, in the Murcia region of southeastern Spain. The fire brigade also attempted to put out two large wildfires in the western Spanish region of Extremadura.