Spain Wildfires Rage: 2,800 Hectares Burned, 40 Evacuated

Two major wildfires in Spain’s Aragón region remain out of control, destroying 2,800 hectares of land and forcing 40 residents from their homes. Officials warn that the situation could worsen as a new heatwave approaches. The largest fire, near Leciñena, has burned about 2,800 hectares—80% of it forestland. Firefighters are working to stop the flames from crossing the A-129 highway. If the fire jumps the road, officials say it could ignite a large, new forest fire. A second fire in Morillo de Monclús, in the La Fueva area, has burned about 50 hectares. Around 40 residents remain evacuated as a precaution. Officials considered expanding evacuations to the nearby town of Formigales but decided against it due to improving conditions. Cooler temperatures and higher humidity overnight helped ground crews make progress. However, regional president Jorge Azcón said neither fire is under control. "The outlook could be much more favorable, or we could be extremely worried again," he warned. The main concern is rising wind expected between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Thursday. Strong winds on Wednesday forced the temporary removal of firefighting teams for safety. Aragón has requested help from six other regions, including Catalonia, Valencia, and Madrid. The military emergency unit (UME) is also on site. Officials are racing to control both fires before a new heatwave arrives Monday. Temperatures could reach 43°C (109°F). "We must have these fires fully controlled by Sunday," said Roberto Bermúdez de Castro, regional interior minister.