At least 11 killed in Spain wildfire, several found in vehicles

A wildfire in the Almeria region of southern Spain has killed at least 11 people, with several victims discovered inside burnt-out vehicles, local media reported on Friday. Eight others were injured in the blaze, which was battled by 150 firefighters and 220 soldiers from Spain's military emergency unit. Regional emergency authorities said four British nationals appeared to be among the victims, according to the Associated Press. Authorities initially reported 12 deaths but revised the toll downward on Friday morning. Andalusia's regional leader Juan Manuel Moreno told Cadena Ser radio that 19 people were unaccounted for. The fire broke out in a hamlet in a semi-arid area near the Sierra de Los Filabres mountains. The cause of the fire has not been confirmed, but callers reported that a fallen power line sparked a blaze that spread rapidly into a nearby forest. The fire led to road closures and the evacuation of 1,000 residents, according to emergency services. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed his condolences on X, writing of his "Immense sadness and desolation in the face of the terrible consequences of the fire affecting the province of Almeria." Spain has experienced frequent and severe heat waves in recent years, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Wind, high temperatures, and low rainfall help small wildfires grow into unchecked blazes. According to Mehr News, the report by the Associated Press added that regional authorities are continuing search efforts.