British Couple Rescued from Deadly Wildfires in Spain

Local media reported that the pair, who were hiking when the flames spread rapidly on Thursday, suffered severe burns covering 40% of their bodies. Civil Guard officers discovered them near the village of Bédar after hearing faint cries for help. Rescuers described the operation as extremely difficult, with the victims barely conscious when found. Both were evacuated and remain in intensive care.

Authorities confirmed that the fire, now under control, killed 12 people—including four believed to be British—and destroyed around 7,000 hectares (17,300 acres) of land. Identities of the deceased have not yet been officially confirmed.

Regional officials announced that evacuation orders for 1,500 residents had been partially lifted, allowing about 600 people to return home. Many gathered anxiously near Bédar, uncertain whether their houses had survived. Among them were Mike and Belinda Lithgow from Cornwall, who fled with their dog and camper van. They were later allowed a brief inspection of their holiday property, hoping it had been spared.

Other residents voiced frustration at the lack of clear evacuation instructions. Emma Mitchell, who has lived in the area for three years, criticized authorities for failing to send mobile alerts. Similarly, Thomas Wolf Verdonckt, whose Belgian father died in the blaze, rejected claims that victims ignored official advice. He insisted no warnings were issued before the fire reached their homes, leaving them with no safe options.

Officials defended their approach, saying broad alerts might have complicated evacuation efforts. They noted that police and firefighters conducted door-to-door visits and phone calls to guide residents. Still, survivors argue that communication failures contributed to the high death toll.

The Almería fire is among Spain’s deadliest in decades. Past tragedies include 20 deaths in La Gomera (1984) and 21 fatalities near Lloret de Mar (1979). Experts warn that climate change is intensifying heatwaves across Europe, with temperatures in southern Spain reaching 40°C (104°F), fueling more destructive wildfires.